ADHD Stimulant Medication
Stimulants are used to treat issues such as hyperactivity and inattention. They usually take effect in 30 to 60 minutes. They are the first line of treatment for people with ADHD.
Stimulants change the activity of neurotransmitters like dopamine and naradrenaline at the tiny gaps called synapses between neurons. They also improve the communication between neurons.
Methamphetamine
Methamphetamine (also known as meth, crystal, ice or speed) is a powerful stimulant drug that can trigger dangerous side effects. It enhances talkativeness and activity reduces appetite, and gives a pleasant feeling of joy. It can also trigger changes in blood pressure and heart rate and cause body temperature elevation. Certain people who take meth could experience poor circulation to their fingers and toes, a condition called Raynaud's condition. Methamphetamine can cause many other serious health problems, including severe brain damage.
Meth is available with or without a prescription. It is usually consumed orally and comes in immediate-release, extended release or controlled-release formulations. It's frequently misused and can result in various negative health effects, including addiction and heart disease.
Meth is typically more harmful and less effective than the medications used to treat ADHD. The stimulants increase the levels of certain brain hormones, including dopamine and norepinephrine. The drugs include the brand-name ones methylphenidate, atomoxetine and dexmethylphenidate. These medications are a type amphetamine and come in controlled-release oral, immediate-release, or extended-release forms.
The majority of these medications are prescribed by physicians for short-term use. Doctors usually prescribe the smallest dose of medication possible to reduce the risk of side effects and misuse. They also monitor the person closely for signs of dependence and addiction.
It can be hard to overcome the habit of stimulant addiction. Even if a person uses meth occasionally, they may become dependent on it and suffer from symptoms like irritability and anxiety.
Methamphetamine abuse can cause malnutrition, weight loss and even serious health or dental issues. It can also trigger mental health issues, like depression. Chronic meth users are also more likely to lose the enthusiasm for previously enjoyable activities.
Methamphetamine falls under Schedule II. Avoid using this drug if pregnant or nursing. Mixing meth with alcohol crack cocaine, opiates, and other drugs can be dangerous.
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate is the first-line drug used to treat ADHD in children and adults. It is a central nerve stimulant. This means it stimulates parts of the brain which are underactive in ADHD patients and helps them focus and concentrate. It also enhances their ability to organize, plan and manage their emotions. Methylphenidate also acts as an dopamine reuptake as well as a noradrenaline inhibitor. It blocks the chemical noradrenaline and dopamine from being taken back up into the nerve cells after they've been released allowing them to hang around longer and have a greater impact on the brain.
In the doses prescribed for ADHD, methylphenidate doesn't cause an "high". It is also not addictive. It is still a controlled drug and there is still a chance of abuse or addiction. Your doctor may add additional information to your prescription, making it harder to copy or modify. It is best to take the medication as directed by your doctor. The stimulants don't cause addiction in the small doses that are used to treat ADHD however, some people may develop a tolerance to the medication and have to increase their dosage in time.
This could cause side effects such as headaches and stomach upsets, dizziness and blurred vision. It's important to let your doctor know if you or your child suffers from these issues. The long-term use of methylphenidate may cause irregular heartbeats as well as an increase in blood pressure. These problems are more common when the drug is used with nitrates or opiates, this is why doctors do not prescribe it to patients with these conditions.
If you have an ancestral history of Tourette's syndrome or facial or motor tics (repeated uncontrollable movements, or repeated words or sounds) you shouldn't use methylphenidate because it can cause them. It is also important to inform your doctor if you have glaucoma, an overactive thyroid gland or feelings of tension or anxiety. Avoid drinking alcohol while taking the chewable long-acting tablet (Quillichew-ER) or the long-acting tablet (Cotempla-XR-ODT), as these contain artificial sweetener Aspartame. It is important to inform your doctor if your child you suffer from Phenylketonuria. It is an inherited condition which results in a rare form of brain disease called PKU. It requires a diet that is free of phenylalanine.
In some infants, methylphenidate can slow their growth rate and weight gain, this is the reason doctors generally recommend regular reviews of your child's growth and progress using an incline-weight chart. Some CNS stimulants can also trigger the condition known as priapism. It is an erectile disorder.
Methylphenidate can interact with a variety of medications, including decongestants and cold or allergy remedies that contain ephedrine. It also has a negative interaction with certain blood thinners like warfarin, which is used by patients undergoing surgery to stop blood clots. adhd medication list is also recommended to avoid by women who are pregnant as it could cause a serious and sometimes life-threatening condition called serotonin syndrome. In these instances you must seek medical attention immediately. It is not recommended that you make use of methylphenidate for a prolonged period of time. This is because it isn't clear if it's safe and effective.