ADHD Stimulant Medication
Stimulants are used to treat conditions like inattention and hyperactivity. They typically take effect in 30 to 60 minutes. They are the first line of treatment for people with ADHD.
Stimulants affect the neurotransmitters that are key to their function, dopamine and noradrenaline in the tiny spaces between neurons, referred to as synapses. They also help neurons communicate more effectively with each other.
Methamphetamine
Methamphetamine (also called meth crystal, ice, crystal or speed) is a potent stimulant drug that can trigger dangerous adverse reactions. It boosts talkativeness, activity and appetite. It also gives the sensation of happiness. It can also cause changes in blood pressure, heart rate, and body temperature. Some people who use meth might experience poor circulation to their toes and fingers, a condition called Raynaud's phenomenon. Methamphetamine may cause a variety of serious health issues, including severe brain damage.
Meth is available in both prescription and nonprescription versions. It is usually consumed orally, and comes in formulations that are immediate-released as well as extended-released or controlled-released. It's often abused and can cause a variety of negative health outcomes including addiction, heart disease and overdose.
Meth is generally more hazardous and less effective than drugs used to treat ADHD. Stimulants increase levels of certain brain hormones such as dopamine and norepinephrine. The drugs include the brand-name ones methylphenidate, dexmethylphenidate and atomoxetine. Those medications are classified as a type of amphetamine and are available in immediate-release, extended-release or control-release oral forms.
Most of these medications are prescribed by physicians for short-term use. Doctors generally prescribe the lowest dose of medication to reduce the risk of side effects and abuse. They also monitor the person closely for signs of dependence and addiction.
managing adhd without medication to stimulants is a major issue for young people and it can be challenging to stop the habit. Even if a person is using meth for a few times, they could become dependent on it and experience symptoms such as anxiety and irritability.
Methamphetamine abuse can lead to malnutrition, weight loss and even serious health or dental problems. Mental health problems such as depression can also be caused by methamphetamine abuse for long periods of time. Meth addicts who are chronically addicted tend to lose interest previously enjoyed activities.
Methamphetamine is a Schedule II controlled substance. It's important to avoid taking this drug during pregnancy or nursing. Mixing meth with alcohol crack, cocaine, opiates and other drugs can be risky.
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate is the first-line treatment used to treat ADHD in adults and children. It is a central nervous stimulant. This means it stimulates the parts of the brain which are underactive within ADHD patients and aids them to focus and concentrate. It also improves their ability to plan, organise and manage emotions. Methylphenidate can also be an dopamine reuptake as well as a noradrenaline inhibitor. It prevents the chemicals dopamine and noradrenaline from getting returned to the nerve cells after release, permitting them to stay longer and to have a greater impact on the brain.
Methylphenidate does not cause an "high" and isn't addictive in the doses typically prescribed for ADHD. However, it is a controlled substance and there is a chance of abuse or addiction. Your doctor will add additional information to your prescription that makes it harder to copy or modify. It is best to take medicine as prescribed. Stimulants aren't habit-forming at the low doses used to treat ADHD However, some individuals may develop a tolerance to the drugs and require 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 whether your child or you experience these symptoms. Long-term use of methylphenidate can result in irregular heartbeats as well as an increase in blood pressure. These issues are more likely to occur if the medication is used in conjunction together with opiates or nitrates this is why doctors do not prescribe it to patients suffering from these conditions.
If you have a history of Tourette syndrome, facial or motor tics or uncontrollable movements that are repeated (or repeating words or sounds), you should not take methylphenidate as it can cause these symptoms. You should also inform your doctor if you have glaucoma, an active thyroid gland, or a feeling of anxiety or tension. Avoid drinking alcohol-based drinks when you are taking the chewable long-acting tablet (Quillichew ER) or the long-acting orally disintegrating tablet (Cotempla XR-ODT) as they contain the artificial sweetener aspartame. You should also tell your doctor if your child you suffer from Phenylketonuria. It is an inherited condition that is a rare type of brain disease referred to as PKU. It requires a diet free of phenylalanine.
Some young children can be affected by methylphenidate. This can hinder their growth and weight. This is why doctors recommend that you regularly review your child's progress using the height-weight graph. There's also a risk of priapism, an abnormal erectile dysfunction that can occur with certain CNS stimulants.
Methylphenidate may interact with a number of medications, such as decongestants and cold or allergy medicines that contain ephedrine. It also has a negative interaction with blood thinners, such as warfarin which is used by patients who undergo surgery to stop blood clots. Pregnant women should also avoid it since it can trigger serotonin-induced syndrome, a serious condition that can be life-threatening. In these cases, you should seek medical attention straight immediately. It is not recommended that you use methylphenidate over a long period of time. This is due to the fact that it's not clear whether it's safe and efficient.