ADHD Stimulant Medication
Stimulants are used to treat issues like inattention and hyperactivity. They usually take effect within 30-60 minutes. They are the first line of treatment for people with ADHD.
Stimulants affect the activity of key neurotransmitters dopamine and noradrenaline in the tiny gaps between neurons, also known as synapses. They also aid connected neurons to communicate better with one another.
Methamphetamine
Methamphetamine is also known as crystal, ice, or speed, is a potent stimulant drug that could cause adverse effects. It increases activity and talkativeness reduces appetite, and creates a pleasurable sense of joy. It can also trigger changes in blood pressure and heart rate as well as body temperature. Some people who use meth may develop poor circulation to their fingers and toes, a condition called Raynaud's condition. Methamphetamine has also been known to cause brain damage that is severe and other serious health problems.
Meth is sold both on prescription or without prescription. It is usually taken orally, and is available in formulations that are immediate-released, extended-released, or controlled-released. It's frequently misused and could result in a variety of health issues like addiction, heart disease, and overdose.
Meth is usually more dangerous and less effective than the medications used to treat ADHD. The stimulants work by increasing the levels of certain brain hormones, including dopamine and norepinephrine. The drugs include the brand-name ones methylphenidate, dexmethylphenidate and Atomoxetine. Those medications are classified as a form of amphetamine, and they are available in immediate-release, extended-release or control-release forms.
The majority of these drugs are however prescribed by doctors for short-term use. Doctors generally prescribe the lowest dosage of medication that is possible to minimize the risks of adverse reactions and abuse. They also monitor the person closely for signs of dependence and addiction.
Addiction to stimulants is a major problem for young people, and it can be difficult to stop the habit. Even when a person is taking meth just occasionally, they can become dependent on the drug and experience symptoms like irritability anxiety, mood swings and difficulty sleeping.
Long-term methamphetamine usage can cause weight loss and malnutrition as well as serious health issues or dental problems. It can also trigger mental health issues, like depression. Chronic meth users tend to lose interest previously enjoyed activities.
Methamphetamine is classified under Schedule II. Avoid using this drug if you're pregnant or nursing. It's also unsafe to mix meth with other drugs like alcohol, crack cocaine, and opiates.
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate, a central nervous system stimulant, is the initial drug used to treat ADHD both in children and adults. It is a central nervous stimulant. This means it stimulates the parts of the brain that are inactive within ADHD patients and helps them focus and concentrate. It also improves the capacity to organize and plan, as well as manage emotions. Methylphenidate also acts as a dopamine and noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor. It blocks the chemicals dopamine and noradrenaline from getting taken back up into the nerve cells after they've been released, allowing them to hang around longer and have a bigger impact on the brain.
Methylphenidate doesn't cause the sensation of a "high" and isn't addictive in the doses that are usually prescribed for ADHD. However, adhd medication for adults uk is a controlled substance and there is still the possibility of addiction or abuse. Your doctor will write your prescription with additional information that makes it more difficult to alter or copy and you should only use the medication as directed by your doctor. Stimulants aren't habit-forming at the low doses that are used to treat ADHD however, some people might develop a tolerance the drugs and need to increase the dosage in time.
It can result in adverse effects such as headaches, nausea, dizziness and blurred vision. It's important to let your doctor know if you or your child is suffering from these issues. Long-term use of methylphenidate can lead to irregular heartbeats and elevated blood pressure. These issues are more frequent when the medication is combined with nitrates or opiates this is why doctors don't prescribe it to patients suffering from these conditions.
If you are a victim of Tourette syndrome facial or motor tics or repetitive uncontrollable movements (or repeated sounds or phrases) do not take methylphenidate since it may trigger these symptoms. You should also tell your doctor if there is an overactive thyroid gland or symptoms of anxiety or tension. Avoid drinking alcohol when you are taking the chewable long-acting tablet (Quillichew-ER) or the long-acting tablet (Cotempla-XR-ODT) These contain artificial sweeteners Aspartame. It is also important to inform your doctor if your child you suffer from phenylketonuria. This is an inherited condition which causes a rare form of brain disease known as PKU. It requires a diet that is free of Phenylalanine.
In some children, methylphenidate may slow their growth rate and weight gain, which is why doctors usually suggest regular assessments of your child's growth and progress using a height-weight chart. Certain CNS stimulants can also trigger priapism - an abnormal erectile disorder.
Methylphenidate may interact with certain medications, including decongestants or cold and allergy medications containing ephedrine. It may also interact negatively with certain blood thinners like warfarin that are used by patients going through surgery to prevent blood clots. Pregnant women should also avoid it since it can trigger serotonin-induced syndrome, a serious condition that can be life-threatening. In such cases, you must seek immediate medical attention. It's also not recommended to take methylphenidate over a long period of time, as it's not clear how safe and effective it is in the long run.