ADHD Stimulant Medication
Stimulants improve symptoms like hyperactivity and inattention and can be experienced within 30 to 60 minutes. They are the first line of treatment for those suffering from ADHD.
Stimulants alter the activity of neurotransmitters like dopamine and noradrenaline in the tiny spaces between neurons, also known as synapses. They also enhance the communication between neurons.
Methamphetamine
Methamphetamine, also referred to as crystal, ice or speed, is a powerful stimulant drug that can cause dangerous side effects. It increases activity and talkativeness reduces appetite, and gives a pleasant feeling of happiness. It can also cause changes in blood pressure, heart rate, and body temperature. Raynaud's syndrome is a condition that occurs in people who are addicted to meth. Methamphetamine can cause many other serious health issues, including severe brain damage.
Meth is available in both prescription and nonprescription versions. It is typically consumed orally, and comes in formulations that are immediate-released, extended-released or controlled-released. It's frequently misused and can lead to a number of negative health consequences, such as heart disease and addiction.
Meth is generally more hazardous and less effective than drugs used to treat ADHD. The stimulants increase the levels of certain brain hormones, including dopamine and norepinephrine. Brand-name medicines include methylphenidate dexmethylphenidate atomoxetine. These are all forms of amphetamine that is available in controlled-release oral, immediate-release or extended-release versions.
The majority of these medications are prescribed by physicians for short-term use. Doctors generally prescribe the lowest dose of medication to reduce the risk of adverse reactions and misuse. They also examine the patient for signs of dependence and addiction.
Stimulant addiction is a major issue for young people and it can be challenging to stop the habit. Even if someone is taking meth just occasionally they may become dependent to the drug and develop symptoms like irritability, anxiety, mood swings and difficulty sleeping.
Long-term methamphetamine usage can cause weight loss and malnutrition and can also cause serious dental or health problems. Mental health issues such as depression can be triggered by long-term methamphetamine use. Chronic meth users also tend to lose interest in activities that were previously enjoyable.
Methamphetamine is a Schedule II controlled substance. Do not take see it here if you're pregnant or nursing. It's also dangerous to mix meth with other substances like alcohol, crack cocaine, and opiates.
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate is the first-line medication used to treat ADHD in children and adults. It is a central nervous stimulant. This means it stimulates parts of the brain that are inactive for ADHD patients and helps them focus and concentrate. It also improves the ability to organize and plan and manage emotions. Methylphenidate is also a dopamine and noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor. It stops the chemicals dopamine and noradrenaline from being used up by nerve cells following their release, allowing them a longer time to impact the brain.
Methylphenidate isn't a cause of an "high" and isn't addictive in the dosages commonly prescribed for ADHD. It's still a controlled drug and there is a possibility of addiction or abuse. Your doctor will add extra information to your prescription, which makes it more difficult to copy and modify. It is best to take the medication as directed by your doctor. Low doses of stimulants that are used to treat ADHD are not habit-forming, but certain individuals develop a tolerance and may have to increase their dosage as time passes.
This could result in negative side effects, such as headaches nausea, dizziness, stomach upset and blurred vision. It's important to let your doctor know if your child has these problems. Long-term use of methylphenidate can result in irregular heartbeat and an increased blood pressure. These issues are more prevalent when the medication is combined with nitrates or opiates, which is why doctors don't prescribe it to patients with these conditions.
If you have a history of Tourette syndrome, facial or motor tics or repetitive uncontrollable movements (or repeated sounds or phrases), you should not use methylphenidate because it could trigger these symptoms. Tell your doctor if any of these conditions concern you such as glaucoma, an overactive thyroid gland; or any other symptoms such as anxiety or tension. Avoid drinking alcohol while chewing the chewable long-acting tablet (Quillichew-ER) or the long-acting tablet (Cotempla-XR-ODT) These contain artificial sweetener Aspartame. It is also important to inform your doctor if your child or suffers 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.
Children of all ages can be affected by methylphenidate. This can slow down their growth and weight. This is why doctors suggest that you regularly review your child's progress using a height-weight graph. There's also a risk of priapism which is an abnormal erectile dysfunction that can be caused by certain CNS stimulants.
Methylphenidate is known to interact with some medications, such as decongestants or cold and allergy medications containing ephedrine. It may also interact with blood thinners in certain combinations, including warfarin which is used to prevent blood clots occurring in patients having surgery. Women who are pregnant should be cautious about it since it can trigger serotonin-induced syndrome, a serious condition that can be life-threatening. In such instances, you must seek medical attention immediately. It is not recommended to use methylphenidate over a long period of time. This is due to the fact that it isn't clear if it's safe and efficient.