ADHD Stimulant Medication
Stimulants can help with symptoms such as hyperactivity and inattention and can be felt within 30 to 60 minutes. They are the first line treatment for those suffering from ADHD.
Stimulants alter the activity of key neurotransmitters dopamine and noradrenaline within the tiny gaps between neurons, also known as synapses. They also help neurons communicate better with one another.
Methamphetamine
Methamphetamine, also known as crystal, ice or speed, is a potent stimulant drug with potentially dangerous side effects. It boosts talkativeness, activity and appetite. It also gives the sensation of happiness. It can also trigger changes in heart rate and blood pressure and cause an increase in body temperature. Certain people who take meth might experience poor circulation to their toes and fingers which is known as Raynaud's condition. Methamphetamine can also cause severe brain damage and other serious health issues.
Meth is available in both prescription and nonprescription forms. It's typically taken orally and is available in immediate-release, extended release or controlled-release formulations. It's often abused and can result in a variety of negative health outcomes including addiction, heart disease, and overdose.
Meth is typically more harmful and less effective than medications used to treat ADHD. The stimulants boost the levels of certain brain hormones like norepinephrine and dopamine. Medications include the brand-name drugs methylphenidate, dexmethylphenidate and atomoxetine. These drugs are classified as a type of amphetamine, and they come in immediate-release, extended-release or control-release oral forms.
Most of these medicines are however prescribed by doctors for short-term use. Doctors prescribe the least dose of medication in order to reduce the chance of adverse reactions and misuse. They also examine the patient for signs of dependence and addiction.
It isn't easy to break the cycle of stimulant addiction. Even when a person is taking meth just occasionally it is possible to become dependent on the drug and experience symptoms such as irritability, mood swings, anxiety and trouble sleeping.
Long-term methamphetamine use can cause weight loss and malnutrition, as well as serious health issues or dental problems. Mental health problems like depression can be caused by methamphetamine abuse for long periods of time. Chronic meth users also tend to lose interest in previously enjoyable activities.
Methamphetamine falls under Schedule II. It is important to stay clear of this drug while pregnant or breastfeeding. It's also not recommended to mix meth with other substances such as alcohol, cocaine/crack and opiates.
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate is the first-line medication used to treat ADHD in children and adults. It is a central nerve stimulant. This means that it stimulates parts of the brain that are inactive within ADHD patients and aids them to focus and concentrate. It also enhances the capacity to plan and organise and manage emotions. Methylphenidate also acts as a dopamine and noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor. It blocks the chemical dopamine and noradrenaline from being returned to the nerve cells after release, permitting them to stay longer and have a greater impact on the brain.
Methylphenidate isn't a cause of the sensation of a "high" and isn't addictive at the doses that are usually prescribed for ADHD. It is still a controlled substance and there is still a chance of abuse or addiction. Your doctor will prescribe your medication with additional information that makes it more difficult to modify or copy and you should use the medication as directed by your doctor. Low doses of stimulants used to treat ADHD are not habit-forming, however certain sufferers develop tolerance and will need to increase their dosage in time.
This can lead to negative effects such as headaches nausea, dizziness and blurred vision. advice here is important to inform your doctor whether your child or you suffer from these symptoms. Long-term methylphenidate use can cause irregular heartbeats and increased blood pressure. These problems are more likely if the medication is combined together with opiates or nitrates which is why doctors don't prescribe it to patients suffering from these conditions.
If you have a history of Tourette syndrome facial or motor tics or repeated uncontrollable movements (or repeated sounds or phrases) do not use methylphenidate because it could cause these symptoms. Consult your physician if any of these conditions apply to you: glaucoma; an overactive thyroid gland; or feelings such as anxiety or tension. Avoid drinking alcohol when you are taking the chewable long-acting tablets (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 or you suffer from phenylketonuria. It is an inherited condition that results in a rare form of brain disease called PKU. It requires a diet free of the chemical phenylalanine.
Some young children can be affected by methylphenidate, which can hinder their growth and weight. This is why doctors recommend that you periodically review your child's progress using an incline-weight graph. There's also the risk of priapism, an abnormal erectile dysfunction which can occur with certain CNS stimulants.
Methylphenidate may interact with certain medications, like decongestants, cold and allergy medicines containing Ephedrine. It can also interact negatively with certain blood thinners like warfarin that are used by patients who undergo surgery to prevent blood clots. It should be avoided by pregnant women because it can trigger a serious and sometimes life-threatening condition called serotonin syndrome. In such instances you should seek medical attention right away. It is not recommended that you make use of methylphenidate for a prolonged period of time. This is due to the fact that it's not clear whether it's safe and effective.