ADHD Stimulant Medication
Stimulants are used to treat symptoms such as hyperactivity and inattention. adhd uk medication have an effect within 30-60 minutes. They are the first line of treatment for people suffering from ADHD.
Stimulants alter the activity of neurotransmitters like dopamine and naradrenaline within the tiny gaps called synapses between neurons. They also aid connected neurons to communicate more effectively with each other.
Methamphetamine
Methamphetamine (also known as meth crystal, ice, crystal or speed) is a powerful stimulant drug that may cause dangerous adverse effects. It boosts talkativeness and activity, decreases appetite, and gives a pleasant feeling of happiness. It can also lead to changes in blood pressure as well as heart rate and body temperature. People who use meth could experience poor circulation to their fingers and toes, a condition called Raynaud's phenomenon. Methamphetamine can cause many other serious health issues, such as severe brain damage.
Meth is available in prescription and nonprescription forms. It's typically taken orally and comes in immediate-release, extended release or controlled-release formulations. It's frequently misused and could cause a range of health issues, such as heart disease, addiction and overdose.
The medications used to treat ADHD are usually more effective and safer than meth. Stimulants increase the levels of certain brain hormones such as norepinephrine and dopamine. The most popular brand-name drugs are methylphenidate, dexmethylphenidate atomoxetine. Those medications are classified as a type of amphetamine, and they are available in immediate-release and extended-release or control-release forms.
The majority of these medications are prescribed by physicians for short-term use. Doctors prescribe the smallest dosage of medication to reduce the chance of adverse effects and abuse. They also monitor the patient closely for signs of dependence and addiction.
The problem of addiction to stimulants is a significant problem for young people, and it can be a challenge to kick the habit. Even if someone uses meth occasionally, they may become dependent and experience symptoms like irritability and anxiety.
Methamphetamine abuse may lead to weight loss, malnutrition and even serious health or dental issues. It can also cause mental health issues, such as depression. Chronic meth users also tend to lose interest in activities that were previously enjoyable.
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's a central nervous system stimulant which means it stimulates bits of the brain that are inactive for people suffering from ADHD and aids them in focusing and concentrate. It also improves their ability to plan, organise and manage emotions. Methylphenidate can also be a dopamine reuptake inhibitor and a noradrenaline inhibitor. It prevents the chemicals dopamine and noradrenaline from getting used up by nerve cells following their release, which gives them to have a longer period of time to affect the mind.
In the doses prescribed for ADHD, methylphenidate isn't able to cause the sensation of a "high". It is also not addictive. It's still a controlled substance, and there is still a chance of addiction or abuse. Your doctor will prescribe your medication with extra information that makes it difficult to modify or copy and you should use the medication as directed by your doctor. The stimulants don't cause addiction in the small doses used to treat ADHD, but some people may develop a tolerance to the medication and have to increase their dosage over time.
This could result in side effects such as headaches, dizziness, stomach upset and blurred vision. You should tell your doctor whether your child or you experience these symptoms. Long-term use of methylphenidate can result in irregular heartbeats and increased blood pressure. These issues are more frequent when the drug is used with nitrates or opiates, this is why doctors do not prescribe it to patients suffering from 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 take methylphenidate because it can cause them. Inform your doctor about any of the following conditions that apply to you such as glaucoma, an overactive thyroid gland or other feelings like tension or anxiety. Avoid drinking alcohol when you are taking the chewable long-acting tablet (Quillichew-ER) or the long-acting tablet (Cotempla-XR-ODT), as these contain the artificial sweetener Aspartame. It is also essential to inform your doctor if you or your child has phenylketonuria, an inherited condition that causes a rare form of brain disease known as PKU and requires a diet free from phenylalanine.
In some children methylphenidate can slow down their rate of growth and weight, this is the reason doctors generally suggest regular assessments of your child's progress using the height-weight chart. There's also a risk of priapism which is an abnormal erectile dysfunction that may be caused by certain CNS stimulants.
Methylphenidate is known to interact with some medications, including decongestants or cold and allergy medications containing ephedrine. It may also interact negatively with blood thinners, like warfarin that are used by patients going through surgery to prevent blood clots. It should also be avoided by pregnant women since it could cause a serious and sometimes life-threatening condition known as serotonin syndrome. In these instances, you must seek medical attention immediately. It's not recommended to take methylphenidate for long periods of time, since it's not clear how safe and effective it is in the long run.