A Productive Rant About Treating ADD In Adults
Treating ADHD With Stimulant Medication
The stimulant drugs such as methylphenidate (Ritalin Concerta, Ritualin), and amphetamines (lisdexamfetamine, Adderall and Vyvanse), help people control their impulses and focus. Atomoxetine, a nonstimulant medication that increases brain neurotransmitters norepinephrine as well as dopamine, can also be used.
The majority of people with ADHD are treated using an array of medications, talk therapy and life skills training. The right dose and timing of the medication is essential to maximize its effectiveness.
Stimulants
Stimulants boost the body's systems including the nervous system. They are prescription drugs used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy and obesity. Illegally, they are used to increase energy and focus. They can be injected, snorted or taken orally. According to the Controlled Substances Act (CSA), stimulants are classified as Schedule II drugs, which means they pose a high risk of abuse.
Amphetamines and methylphenidate are two of the main categories of stimulant drugs. Amphetamines increase alertness, cognition and productivity by increasing the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in your brain. They can help people suffering from ADHD feel less tired and increase their concentration. They also can help people with ADHD sleep better and decrease depression. They can also help reduce risk-taking behaviors like gambling, drinking and drug abuse.
These medications could cause serious side effects if used improperly or excessively. treating adhd in adults is important to only take these medications 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 signs include a need for the medication, difficulties stopping the use, and negative impact on your daily life and relationships.
In addition to being addictive, stimulants can be dangerous for people with certain health problems. These drugs can increase your heart rate and blood pressure, which can lead to a heart attack or stroke. They can also trigger seizures and other mental health issues.
Many people suffering from ADHD notice a noticeable improvement in their symptoms within weeks after starting stimulant medication. Some people are more reticent to notice changes. Most people notice the changes in their friends, family members or colleagues, as well as teachers.
The onset of addiction to stimulants can occur when people take the drugs in higher doses than prescribed or for a longer period than prescribed by their health care providers. It also happens when stimulants are combined with other substances such as opioids. This can cause a dangerous combination of effects that increase the chance of an overdose and death.
Prescription stimulants are habit-forming but less likely to lead to addiction than illicit drugs like methamphetamines and cocaine. However any drug misused incorrectly can result in dependence and addiction.
Stimulant drugs can be easily abused and are sometimes mixed with alcohol or other substances to increase the effects. Nicotine amphetamines, caffeine and methamphetamines are among the most frequently used stimulants by teenagers to improve their performance at school in sports, at school, or at work.
Amphetamines are available in prescription and over-the-counter medications, such as Adderall and Dexedrine. They are also available as a street drug often referred to as "study drugs." Amphetamines can be swallowed, smoked, snorted, or dissolved in water and injected into the vein or muscle. They come in the form of capsules, tablets, clear or brownish crystals and powders that can be sprinkled on food.