Treating ADHD With Stimulant Medication<br /><br />Drugs that stimulate the brain, such as methylphenidate (Ritalin Concerta, Ritalin), and amphetamines (lisdexamfetamine, Adderall and Vyvanse), help people control their thoughts and concentrate. Atomoxetine is a non-stimulant medication that increases brain neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine is also a possibility.<br /><br />The majority of adults suffering from ADHD are treated with an interdisciplinary approach of medication and life skills training. The proper dosage and timing of the medication are important for maximizing its effectiveness.<br /><br />Stimulants<br /><br />Stimulants increase the speed of the body's systems, including the nervous system. They are prescription medications used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) as well as narcolepsy and obesity. Illegally, they're used to increase energy and focus. They can be injected, snorted or taken orally. Under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) stimulants are classified as Schedule II drugs, which means they pose a high risk of abuse.<br /><br />Amphetamines, along with methylphenidate, are two of the most popular stimulant medications. Amphetamines improve alertness, focus and productivity by increasing the levels of chemicals in your brain that are called dopamine and norepinephrine. They can boost concentration and reduce feelings of fatigue in people who suffer from ADHD. They can also help some people with ADHD sleep better and decrease depression. They may also reduce risk-taking behaviors, such as gambling, drinking and a drug addiction.<br /><br />These medications can cause serious side effects if used improperly or in excess. These medications should only be taken according to the instructions of your physician.<br /><br />People who use stimulants can develop a dependence on them, and an addiction called stimulant use disorders. It is crucial to recognize the signs of this condition and seek treatment. The signs include a desire for the medication, difficulties stopping use, and a negative impact on your daily life and relationships.<br /><br />In addition to being addicting, stimulants are harmful for those with certain health issues. These medications can raise the blood pressure and heart rate, which can cause heart attacks or strokes. They can also trigger seizures, among other mental health issues.<br /><br /><br /><br />Many people with ADHD notice a significant improvement in their symptoms only several weeks after beginning stimulant medication. However, it can take longer for some people to see an improvement. These improvements are often most visible to family or friends, teachers, and colleagues at work.<br /><br />Addiction to stimulants can occur when people consume these drugs in greater doses than prescribed or for a longer period than the recommended time by their healthcare professionals. It can also happen when stimulants are combined with other substances such as opioids. This can result in an unwise combination which increases the risk of overdose and even death.<br /><br />They can be addictive, but less likely to lead to addiction than illicit drugs such as cocaine and methamphetamines. However any substance misused improperly can lead to dependence and addiction.<br /><br />The effects of stimulants can be easily abused and are sometimes mixed with alcohol or other substances to increase the effects. The most common stimulants used by youngsters to enhance their performance at school, sports or work are caffeine, nicotine, amphetamines and methamphetamines.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.iampsychiatry.uk/adhd-treatment-for-adults/">treating adults with adhd</a> are found in prescription and over-the-counter medicines like Adderall. They are also available as a street narcotic, commonly known as "study drugs." Amphetamines can be smoked, swallowed or snorted or dissolved in water and injecting into the muscle or vein. They come in tablets, capsules crystals that are clear or brownish and a powder that can be sprinkled over food.<br /><br />