The 10 Scariest Things About ADHD Stimulant Medication
ADHD Stimulant Medication
Stimulants are used to treat conditions like inattention and hyperactivity. They usually take effect in 30 to 60 minutes. They are the first line treatment for people suffering from ADHD.
Stimulants work by changing the activity of key neurotransmitters dopamine and noradrenaline within the tiny spaces between neurons, referred to as synapses. They also improve the communication between neurons.
Methamphetamine
Methamphetamine (also called meth crystal, ice, or speed) is a powerful stimulant drug that can trigger dangerous adverse effects. It boosts talkativeness and activity reduces appetite, and creates a pleasurable sense of joy. It can also trigger changes in blood pressure and heart rate and cause the body temperature rising. Raynaud's syndrome is a condition that can occur in people who are addicted to meth. Methamphetamine can cause many other serious health problems, including severe brain damage.
Meth is available in both prescription and nonprescription versions. It's typically taken orally and comes in immediate-release, extended-release and controlled-release formulations. It's frequently misused and can result in various negative health outcomes such as heart disease and addiction.
The drugs used to treat ADHD are generally more efficient and safer than meth. Stimulants increase levels of certain brain hormones such as dopamine and norepinephrine. Brand-name medications include methylphenidate dexmethylphenidate atomoxetine. These drugs are classified as a type of amphetamine and come in immediate-release, extended-release, or control-release oral formulations.
Most of these medications are, however, prescribed by doctors for short-term use. Doctors prescribe the lowest possible dosage of medication to reduce the chance of adverse effects and misuse. They also monitor the patient closely for signs of dependence and addiction.
It can be hard to overcome the habit of stimulant addiction. Even if someone is using meth only occasionally, they can become dependent on the drug and experience symptoms such as irritability, anxiety, mood swings and difficulty sleeping.
Long-term methamphetamine usage can cause weight loss and malnutrition, as well as serious health or dental issues. Mental health problems, such as depression, can be triggered by methamphetamine abuse for long periods of time. Chronic meth users also tend to lose the enthusiasm for previously enjoyable activities.
Methamphetamine is a Schedule II controlled substance. Avoid taking related web site if you're pregnant or nursing. It's also not recommended to mix meth with other drugs, including alcohol, cocaine/crack and opiates.
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate is the first-line drug used to treat ADHD in adults and children. It is a central nerve stimulant. This means it stimulates areas of the brain which are not active for ADHD patients and helps them focus and concentrate. It also improves the ability to organize and plan and manage emotions. Methylphenidate also acts as a dopamine and noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor. It prevents the chemicals dopamine and noradrenaline from getting taken up into nerve cells after their release, giving them a longer time to impact the mind.
In the doses prescribed for ADHD, methylphenidate does not cause a "high". It is also not addictive. However, it's a controlled substance and there is still the possibility of abuse or addiction. Your doctor will add additional information to your prescription, making it difficult to copy or alter. It is important to only use the medication as prescribed. Low doses of stimulants that are used to treat ADHD are not habit-forming, however certain individuals develop a tolerance and may have to increase dosage as time passes.
This can lead to negative side effects, such as headaches nausea, dizziness, stomach upset and blurred vision. It is recommended to consult your physician whether your child or you suffer from these symptoms. Long-term use of methylphenidate can cause irregular heartbeats and elevated blood pressure. These problems are more likely when the drug is taken with nitrates or opiates, which is the reason doctors don't prescribe it to patients suffering from these conditions.
If you have a family history of the disorder, Tourette's syndrome or facial or motor tics (repeated uncontrollable movements or repeating sounds or words) you shouldn't use methylphenidate as it could cause them. Consult your physician about any of the following conditions that apply to you such as glaucoma, an overactive thyroid gland or other feelings like anxiety or tension. Avoid drinking alcoholic beverages when you are taking the chewable long-acting tablet (Quillichew ER) or long-acting orally disintegrating tablet (Cotempla XR-ODT) as they contain the artificial sweetener aspartame. It is important to inform your doctor if you think your child you have Phenylketonuria. This is an inherited condition which causes a rare form of brain disease referred to as PKU. It requires a diet that is free of Phenylalanine.
In some children, methylphenidate can slow their rate of growth and weight gain, which is why doctors usually recommend regular checks of your child's growth and progress using an incline-weight chart. Certain CNS stimulants can also cause priapism - an abnormal Erectile disorder.
Methylphenidate can interact with a variety of medications, such as decongestants and cold or allergy remedies that contain ephedrine. It also interacts with certain blood thinners such as warfarin which is used to prevent blood clots in patients undergoing surgery. It is also recommended to avoid by women who are pregnant as it can trigger dangerous and sometimes fatal condition known as serotonin disorder. In such cases you must seek medical attention away. It is not recommended that you make use of methylphenidate for a prolonged period of time. It's because it's not clear whether it's safe and efficient.