ADHD Stimulant Medication
Stimulants are used to treat symptoms like hyperactivity and inattention. They usually take effect in 30 to 60 minutes. They are the first line medication for those suffering from ADHD.
Stimulants alter the activity of neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and naradrenaline in the tiny synapses between neurons. They also aid connected neurons to communicate more effectively with each other.
Methamphetamine
Methamphetamine (also called meth crystal, ice, or speed) is a powerful stimulant drug that may cause dangerous adverse effects. It boosts talkativeness and activity it also reduces appetite and gives a pleasant feeling of joy. It can also trigger changes in blood pressure as well as heart rate and body temperature. Raynaud's phenomenon is a condition that occurs in people who are addicted to meth. Methamphetamine is also known to cause severe brain damage and other serious health issues.
Meth is sold both on prescription and without a prescription. It is usually taken orally and comes in formulations that are immediate-released as well as extended-released or controlled-released. It's often misused, and can result in various negative health effects, including addiction and heart disease.
The medications used to treat ADHD are generally more efficient and safer than meth. Stimulants increase the levels of certain brain hormones like norepinephrine and dopamine. Medications include the brand-name drugs methylphenidate, atomoxetine and dexmethylphenidate. These medications are a type amphetamine that is available in oral immediate-release, controlled-release extended-release or controlled-release forms.
Most of these medications are prescribed by physicians for short-term use. Doctors prescribe the lowest possible dose of medication in order to reduce the chance of adverse reactions and abuse. They also examine the patient for signs of dependence and addiction.
It can be hard to break the habit of addiction to stimulants. Even if a person uses meth occasionally, they may develop a dependence on it and suffer from symptoms like anxiety and irritability.
Long-term methamphetamine use can cause weight loss and malnutrition as well as serious dental or health problems. It can also lead to mental health issues like depression. Meth addicts who are chronically addicted tend to lose interest in previously engaged in activities they enjoyed.
Methamphetamine is a Schedule II controlled substance. Avoid using this drug if pregnant or nursing. Mixing meth with alcohol, crack, cocaine, opiates and other drugs can be risky.
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 that are not active for ADHD patients and aids them to focus and concentrate. It also improves their ability to plan, organise and manage their emotions. Methylphenidate is also a dopamine reuptake and noradrenaline inhibitor. It stops the chemicals dopamine and noradrenaline from getting used up by nerve cells following their release, giving them a longer time to affect the mind.
In the doses recommended for ADHD, methylphenidate does not cause an "high". best adhd medication for adults 's also not addictive. It's still a controlled drug and there is a possibility of abuse or addiction. Your doctor may add additional information to your prescription that makes it harder to copy or alter. You should only use the medication as prescribed. The stimulants don't cause addiction at the low doses that are used to treat ADHD however, some people might develop a tolerance to the drugs and need to increase the dosage in time.
This could result in negative side effects, such as headaches, dizziness, stomach upset and blurred vision. It is recommended to consult your physician when your child or you suffer from these symptoms. Long-term use of methylphenidate can lead to irregular heartbeats and elevated blood pressure. These issues are more likely if the medication is combined along with opiates or nitrates, which is the reason doctors don't prescribe it to patients suffering from these conditions.
If you are a victim of Tourette syndrome motor or facial tics, or uncontrollable movements that are repeated (or repeating sounds or phrases) do not use methylphenidate because it could cause these symptoms. It is also important to inform your doctor if you suffer from glaucoma, an overactive thyroid gland, or a feeling of anxiety or tension. Avoid drinking alcohol while taking the chewable long-acting tablet (Quillichew-ER) or the long-acting tablet (Cotempla-XR-ODT) These contain the artificial sweetener Aspartame. It is also essential to inform your doctor if you or your child suffers from phenylketonuria. an inherited condition that can cause a rare brain disease known as PKU and requires a diet free from the chemical phenylalanine.
In some children, methylphenidate can slow their growth rate and weight gain, this is the reason doctors generally recommend regular reviews of your child's progress using an incline-weight chart. Certain CNS stimulants can also cause the condition known as priapism. It is an Erectile disorder.
Methylphenidate is known to interact with some medications, like decongestants and cold and allergy medications that contain Ephedrine. It can also interact with certain blood thinners like warfarin, for instance which is used to prevent blood clots from occurring in patients undergoing surgery. Women who are pregnant should be cautious about it since it can trigger serotonin-induced syndrome, which is a serious condition that could be life-threatening. In these cases you should seek medical attention straight immediately. It's not recommended to use methylphenidate for prolonged periods of time, as it's not clear how it's safe and efficient in the long run.