Treating this page With Stimulant Medication
Stimulant medicines such as methylphenidate (Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines in the form of lisdexamfetamine (Adderall and Vyvanse) assist people to focus and control their impulses. Atomoxetine is a nonstimulant that increases brain neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine.
Most adults with ADHD are treated using an array of medications, talk therapy and life skills training. It is essential to select the right dosage and timing for the medication in order to maximize the effectiveness of the medication.
Stimulants
Stimulants stimulate the nervous system in addition to other systems. They are prescription medications that treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), narcolepsy, and obesity. Illegally, they're used to increase energy and focus. They can be consumed by mouth, snorted, or injectable. The stimulants are classified as Schedule II substances under the Controlled Substances Act, meaning they pose a high danger of abuse.
Amphetamines, as well as methylphenidate, are among the most common stimulant medications. Amphetamines increase alertness, awareness and productivity by increasing the levels of chemical in your brain called dopamine and norepinephrine. They can help people with ADHD feel less tired and increase their concentration. They can also help some people who suffer from ADHD sleep better and decrease depression. They can also help reduce risk-taking behaviors, such as gambling, drinking and a drug addiction.
These medications could cause serious side effects if taken improperly or in excess. It is important to only take these medications as directed by your doctor.
People who misuse stimulants may develop a dependency on them, and an addiction called stimulant use disorders. It is essential to identify the symptoms of this disorder and seek treatment. The symptoms include a craving for the medication, difficulties stopping use, and a negative impact on your daily functioning and relationships.
In addition to being addictive, stimulants can be harmful for those with certain health problems. These drugs can increase your heart rate and blood-pressure which could lead to heart attacks or strokes. They can also trigger seizures and other mental issues.
Many people who suffer from ADHD notice an improvement in their symptoms only two weeks after they begin stimulant medication. However, it takes longer for some people to notice improvements. These improvements are typically noticeable to family, friends, teachers and work colleagues.
Addiction to stimulants can develop when people take them at higher dosages or for longer time than recommended by their health care providers. It can also happen when stimulants are mixed with other substances such as opioids. This can result in an extremely dangerous combination which increases the risk of an overdose and death.
These stimulants can cause dependence, but they are less likely to trigger addiction than illicit substances like methamphetamines and cocaine. However, any drug that is misused improperly can lead to dependence and addiction.
Stimulant medication can be abused easily and is sometimes mixed with alcohol or a different substance to enhance its effect. The most commonly used stimulants abused by youngsters to enhance their performance in the workplace, in sports or at school are caffeine, nicotine amphetamines, methamphetamines, and amphetamines.
Amphetamines are available in prescription and over-the-counter medications, such as Adderall and Dexedrine. They are also available as a street drug, generally referred to as "study drugs." Amphetamines can be smoked, swallowed or snorted, or mixed in water and injections into the vein or muscle. They are available in tablets, capsules and brownish or clear crystals and powders that can be sprinkled on food.