Treating ADHD With Stimulant Medication
Stimulant medications such as methylphenidate (Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines in the form of Lisdexamfetamine (Adderall and Vyvanse) help people focus and control their impulses. Atomoxetine is a non-stimulant that boosts brain neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine.
Most adults with ADHD are treated with the combination of medication, talk therapy and life skills training. It is essential to select the correct dosage and timing for the medication in order to maximize the effectiveness of the medication.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase the speed of the body's systems including the nervous system. They are prescribed drugs that treat obesity, narcolepsy and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). They are also abused illegally as recreational drugs to boost energy and concentration. They can be injected, snorted or taken orally. They are classified as Schedule II substances under the Controlled Substances Act, meaning they have a high chance of abuse.
Amphetamines and methylphenidate are two of the major classes of stimulant medications. Amphetamines boost alertness, focus and productivity by increasing the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in your brain. They can boost concentration and decrease feelings of fatigue in those who have ADHD. They also can reduce depression in people who have ADHD and aid in sleeping better. They may also decrease risk-taking behaviors like drinking, gambling, and drug use.
These medications may cause serious side effects if they are not taken correctly or if you consume too many. These medications should be taken according to the instructions of your physician.
People who abuse stimulants could develop a dependency, and an addiction called stimulant use disorders. It is essential to be aware of the symptoms of this disorder and seek treatment. The signs include a desire for the medication, difficulties stopping use, and a negative impact on your daily functioning and relationships.
In addition to being addicting, stimulants are harmful for those with certain health problems. These medications can raise the blood pressure and heart rate which can lead to heart attacks or strokes. They can also trigger seizures and other mental disorders.
Many people with ADHD notice an improvement in their symptoms within a few weeks after starting stimulant medication. However, More Help takes longer for some people to see improvements. These improvements are usually noticeable to family, friends, teachers and colleagues at work.
The development of addiction to stimulants may occur when people take them in larger doses than prescribed or for a longer period than prescribed by their health care providers. It can also occur when stimulants are combined with other substances, such as opioids. This can lead to an extremely dangerous combination which increases the risk of an overdose and even death.
These stimulants can cause dependence, but they are less likely to cause addiction than illicit substances such as cocaine and methamphetamines. Any drug used incorrectly could lead to dependence and addiction.
The use of stimulants can be abused easily and can be mixed with alcohol or another substance to boost its effects. The most popular stimulants abused by youngsters to enhance their performance in school, sports or work are nicotine, caffeine, amphetamines and methamphetamines.
Amphetamines are found in prescription and over-the counter medications, such as Adderall and Dexedrine. Amphetamines are also available as a street substance, which is also known as "study drug". They can be smoked, snorted or mixed with water and put directly into the muscle or vein. They come in capsules, tablets crystals that are clear or brownish and powders that can be sprinkled over food.