10 Situations When You'll Need To Learn About ADHD Stimulant Medication
ADHD Stimulant Medication
Stimulants can help with symptoms such as inattention and hyperactivity, with effects typically felt within 30 to 60 minutes. They are the first line medication for people with ADHD.
Stimulants alter the activity of neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and naradrenaline at the tiny gaps called synapses between neurons. They also improve the communication between neurons.
Methamphetamine
Methamphetamine, also known as crystal, ice, or speed, is a powerful stimulant drug that could cause side effects. It increases activity, talkativeness and appetite. It also induces an enjoyable feeling of happiness. It can also cause changes in blood pressure as well as heart rate and body temperature. Raynaud’s phenomenon is a condition that occurs in a few people who use meth. Methamphetamine can cause many other serious health issues, including severe brain damage.
Meth is available in both prescription and nonprescription forms. It is usually taken orally, and comes in formulations that are immediate-released as well as extended-released or controlled-released. It's often abused and can result in a variety of negative health outcomes, such as addiction, heart disease and overdose.
The drugs used to treat ADHD are generally more efficient and safer than meth. Stimulants work by increasing the levels of certain hormones in the brain which include dopamine and norepinephrine. Brand-name medications include methylphenidate dexmethylphenidate atomoxetine. These medications are a type amphetamine that is available in controlled-release, immediate-release extended-release or controlled-release forms.
Most of these medications, however, are prescribed by doctors for short-term use. Doctors generally prescribe the lowest dose of medication possible to reduce the risk of adverse reactions and misuse. They also monitor the person closely for signs of dependency and addiction.
Stimulant addiction is a major issue for young people and it can be a challenge to kick the habit. Even if someone is using meth only occasionally they may become dependent to the drug and develop symptoms such as irritability, mood swings, anxiety and trouble sleeping.
Methamphetamine abuse may lead to weight loss, malnutrition and severe dental or health issues. Mental health issues, such as depression, can be caused by long-term methamphetamine use. Chronic meth users are also more likely to lose interest in previously enjoyable activities.
Methamphetamine falls under Schedule II. It is crucial to avoid taking this drug while pregnant or nursing. It's also unsafe to mix meth with other substances, including alcohol, cocaine/crack and opiates.
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate is the first-line medication used to treat ADHD in adults and children. It's a central nervous system stimulant that means it stimulates parts of the brain that are inactive when people suffer from ADHD and aids them in focusing and concentrate. It also improves their capacity to plan, organise and manage emotions. Methylphenidate can also be a dopamine reuptake inhibitor and a noradrenaline inhibitor. It blocks the chemicals dopamine and noradrenaline from getting taken back up into the nerve cells after release, allowing them to remain longer and to have a greater impact on the brain.
Methylphenidate isn't a cause of a "high" and isn't addictive in the doses typically prescribed for ADHD. However, it is a controlled drug and there is a chance of abuse or addiction. Your doctor will prescribe your medication with extra information that makes it more difficult to modify or copy and you should only follow the prescription as it is. The low doses of stimulants prescribed to treat ADHD are not habit-forming, but some individuals develop a tolerance and will need to increase dosage over time.
This could result in 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. The long-term use of methylphenidate may cause irregular heartbeats and increased blood pressure. These issues are more prevalent if the drug is combined with opiates or nitrates, this is why doctors don't prescribe it to patients with these conditions.
If you have a family history of Tourette's syndrome or motor or facial tics (repeated uncontrollable movements or repeating words or sounds) you shouldn't use methylphenidate since it may trigger these tics. You should also inform your doctor if there is an overactive thyroid gland, or a feeling of anxiety or tension. Avoid drinking alcoholic drinks when taking the chewable, long-acting tablet (Quillichew ER) or long-acting orally disintegrating tablet (Cotempla XR-ODT) due to the fact that they contain the artificial sweetener aspartame. It is also important to inform your doctor if your child you have phenylketonuria. It is an inherited condition that is a rare type of brain disease called PKU. It requires a diet that is free of the chemical phenylalanine.
In some infants methylphenidate can slow down the rate of growth and weight gain, which is why doctors typically suggest regular assessments of your child's progress using a height-weight chart. Certain CNS stimulants can also cause priapism - an abnormal Erectile disorder.

Methylphenidate can interact with a range of medications, including decongestants as well as cold or allergy medications that contain ephedrine. It may also interact with blood thinners in certain combinations such as warfarin, which is used to prevent blood clots occurring in patients undergoing surgery. It is also recommended to avoid by pregnant women since it can cause a serious and sometimes life-threatening condition known as serotonin disorder. In such cases you must seek medical attention away. adhd medications 's also not recommended to take methylphenidate for long periods of time, as it's unclear how safe and effective it is when used for long-term use.