Treating ADHD With Stimulant Medication
Stimulant medicines like 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 medication that increases the brain neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine can also be used.
The majority of people with ADHD will be treated using the combination of medications and life-skills training. It is important to use the correct dosage and timing for the medication in order to maximize the effectiveness of the medication.
Stimulants
Stimulants stimulate the nervous system among other systems. They are prescribed medications that treat narcolepsy, obesity and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Illegally, they are abused to boost focus and energy. They can be consumed in a mouthful, snorted or inhaled. Under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) stimulants are classified as Schedule II drugs, which means they pose a high abuse risk.
Amphetamines as well as methylphenidate are two of the principal classes of stimulant medications. Amphetamines improve alertness, focus and productivity by increasing the levels of chemical in your brain that are called dopamine and norepinephrine. They can help people suffering from ADHD feel less tired and improve their concentration. They also can help people with ADHD sleep better and decrease depression. They can also reduce risk-taking behaviours, such as gambling, drinking and drug abuse.
These medications can have serious adverse effects if not properly taken or if you take too much. These medications should be taken as directed by your physician.
People who abuse stimulants may develop a dependence and develop an addiction, known as stimulant use disorder. It is important to recognize symptoms of this disorder and seek treatment. The symptoms of addiction include a desire for the drug, difficulty in stopping and a negative impact on your daily functioning.
In addition to being addictive, stimulants can also be harmful for those with certain health issues. These drugs can increase your heart rate and blood-pressure which could lead to a stroke or heart attack. They can also trigger seizures and other mental issues.
Many people suffering from ADHD see a positive improvement in their symptoms just two weeks after they begin stimulant medication. However, it can take longer for some people to see improvements. Most people notice the changes in their friends, family members, colleagues and teachers.
Addiction to stimulants may occur when people take them at higher doses or for longer periods than recommended by their health care providers. It may also occur when stimulants are combined with other substances such as opioids. This can result in a dangerous combination that increases the risk of an overdose and even death.
Prescription stimulants can cause dependence however they are less likely to trigger addiction than illicit substances like copyright and methamphetamines. However, any drug that is misused improperly can lead to dependence and addiction.
Stimulant medications can be misused easily and can be mixed with alcohol or a different substance to increase its effects. Nicotine amphetamines, caffeine and methamphetamines are the most commonly used stimulants abused by teenagers to improve their performance at school, in sports, or at natural adhd treatment reddit work.
Amphetamines are commonly found in prescription and over-the counter medicines such as Adderall. They are also available as a street narcotic, generally referred to as "study drugs." Amphetamines can be smoked, swallowed, snorted, or dissolved in water and injecting into the vein or muscle. They come in capsules, tablets crystals that are clear or brownish and a powder that can be sprinkled over food.