ADHD Stimulant Medication
Stimulants are used to treat conditions like inattention and hyperactivity. They usually take effect within 30-60 minutes. They are the first line of treatment for those suffering from ADHD.
Stimulants alter the activities of neurotransmitters like dopamine and naradrenaline in the tiny gaps called synapses between neurons. They also enhance the communication between neurons.
Methamphetamine
Methamphetamine (also called meth crystal, ice, crystal or speed) is an extremely potent stimulant drug that can trigger dangerous side effects. It enhances talkativeness and activity it also reduces appetite and creates a pleasurable sense of joy. It can also cause changes in blood pressure and heart rate and can cause the body temperature rising. Raynaud's phenomenon is a condition that occurs in people who are addicted to meth. Methamphetamine is also known to cause severe brain damage and other serious health problems.
Meth is available both on prescription and without a prescription. It's typically taken orally and is available in immediate-release, extended release or controlled-release formulations. It is often abused, and can result in a number of negative health consequences, such as addiction and heart disease.
Meth is usually more dangerous and less effective than the drugs used to treat ADHD. Stimulants work by increasing the levels of certain brain hormones such as norepinephrine and dopamine. The drugs include the brand-name ones methylphenidate, dexmethylphenidate and atomoxetine. Those medications are classified as a type of amphetamine, and they come in immediate-release, extended-release or control-release forms.
Most of these medications are prescribed by physicians for short-term use. Doctors typically prescribe the lowest dose of medication possible to reduce the risk of adverse effects and abuse. They also closely monitor the person for signs of addiction and dependence.
It can be difficult to break the cycle of addiction to stimulants. Even if a person is using meth for a few times, they could become dependent and experience symptoms like anxiety and irritability.
Methamphetamine abuse can cause weight loss, malnutrition and serious dental or health issues. It can also cause mental health issues such as depression. Chronic meth users also tend to lose interest in previously enjoyable activities.
Methamphetamine is classified under Schedule II. Avoid using this drug if pregnant or nursing. It's also dangerous to mix meth with other substances, including alcohol, cocaine/crack and opiates.
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate is a central nerve system stimulant, is the primary line medication used to treat ADHD both in children and adults. It is a central nervous stimulant. This means that it stimulates parts of the brain which are inactive in ADHD patients and aids them to focus and concentrate. It also improves their ability to organize, plan and manage their emotions. Methylphenidate also acts as a dopamine and noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor. It stops the chemicals dopamine and noradrenaline from being released into nerve cells following their release, allowing them to have a longer period of time to affect the brain.
In the doses recommended for ADHD, methylphenidate isn't able to cause the sensation of a "high". It is also not addictive. However, it is a controlled substance and there is still the possibility of abuse or addiction. Your doctor will write your prescription with additional information, making it more difficult to alter or copy and you should only use the medication as directed by your doctor. The stimulants don't cause addiction at the low doses used to treat ADHD, but some people may develop a tolerance to the drugs and need to increase the dosage as time passes.
This can lead to side effects like headaches, nausea, dizziness, and blurred vision. You should tell your doctor if your child or you experience these symptoms. The long-term use of methylphenidate may lead to irregular heartbeats and an increase in blood pressure. These issues are more prevalent if the drug is combined with opiates or nitrates, this is why doctors don't prescribe it to patients suffering from these conditions.
If you have a family history of the disorder, Tourette's syndrome or facial or motor tics (repeated uncontrollable movements or repeating sounds or words) you shouldn't take methylphenidate as it could trigger them. You should also inform your doctor if there is an overactive thyroid gland, or a feeling of tension or anxiety. Avoid drinking alcohol while taking the chewable long-acting tablets (Quillichew-ER) or the long-acting tablet (Cotempla-XR-ODT) These contain the artificial sweetener Aspartame. It's also important to inform your doctor if your child suffers from phenylketonuria. an inherited condition that causes a rare type of brain disease known as PKU and requires a diet that is free of phenylalanine.
Certain children are affected by methylphenidate. This can slow down their growth and weight. adhd medications is why doctors suggest that you regularly examine your child's growth using a height-weight graph. There is also the possibility of priapism, a condition that causes an abnormal erectile dysfunction that may occur with certain CNS stimulants.
Methylphenidate can interact with a range of medications, including decongestants and cold or allergy medicines that contain ephedrine. It can also interact negatively with blood thinners, such as warfarin which is used by patients going through surgery to prevent blood clots. Women who are pregnant should be cautious about it as it could cause serotonin-induced syndrome, which is a serious condition that can be life-threatening. In these cases you should seek medical attention straight away. It's also not recommended to take methylphenidate for long periods of time because it's not clear how it's safe and effective when used in the long-term.