ADHD Stimulant Medication
Stimulants are used to treat conditions like hyperactivity and inattention. They usually have an effect in 30 to 60 minutes. They are the first line of treatment for people suffering from ADHD.
Stimulants alter the activity of neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and naradrenaline within the tiny gaps called synapses between neurons. They also help neurons communicate more effectively with each other.
Methamphetamine
Methamphetamine (also called meth, crystal, ice or speed) is a potent stimulant drug that may cause dangerous adverse reactions. It boosts talkativeness, activity and appetite. It also induces a pleasant feeling of happiness. It can also lead to changes in blood pressure, heart rate, and body temperature. Certain people who take meth might experience poor circulation to their toes and fingers which is known as Raynaud's phenomenon. Methamphetamine can cause many other serious health issues, including severe brain damage.
Meth is available in prescription and nonprescription forms. It's typically taken orally and is available in immediate-release, extended release or controlled-release formulations. It is often abused, and can lead to various negative health effects, including addiction and heart disease.
The drugs used to treat ADHD are typically more efficient and safer than meth. The stimulants boost the levels of certain brain hormones such as dopamine and norepinephrine. The most popular brand-name drugs are methylphenidate, dexmethylphenidate atomoxetine. These medications are a type amphetamine and come in oral immediate-release, controlled-release or extended-release versions.
Most of these medicines are prescribed by physicians for short-term use. Doctors prescribe the lowest possible dose of medication in order to reduce the risk of side effects and misuse. They also monitor the person closely for signs of dependence and addiction.
It isn't easy to break the cycle of addiction to stimulants. Even if a person is using meth occasionally, they may develop a dependence on it and suffer from symptoms like anxiety and irritability.
Long-term methamphetamine use can cause weight loss and malnutrition as well as serious dental or health problems. It can also lead to mental health issues, such as depression. Meth addicts who are chronically addicted tend to lose interest previously enjoyed activities.
Methamphetamine falls under Schedule II. Do not take this drug if you're pregnant or nursing. It's also dangerous to mix meth with other substances such as alcohol, cocaine/crack and opiates.
non prescription adhd medication uk is the first-line medication used to treat ADHD in both adults and children. It is a central nerve stimulant. This means it stimulates the parts of the brain that are not active within ADHD patients and assists them to focus and concentrate. It also enhances the capacity to plan and organise and manage emotions. Methylphenidate is also an dopamine reuptake as well as a noradrenaline inhibitor. It blocks the chemical dopamine and noradrenaline from being taken up into nerve cells following their release, allowing them to take longer to impact the mind.
In the doses that are prescribed for ADHD, methylphenidate doesn't cause the sensation of a "high". It's also not addictive. However, it is a controlled drug and there is a chance of addiction or abuse. Your doctor will write your prescription with extra information that makes it more difficult to alter or copy and you should only take the medicine as prescribed. The stimulants don't cause addiction in the small doses that are used to treat ADHD however, some people might develop a tolerance to the drugs and need to increase the dosage in time.
It can result in adverse effects such as headaches, nausea, dizziness, and blurred vision. It's crucial to let your doctor know if your child is suffering from these issues. 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 combined with nitrates or opiates, which is the reason doctors don't prescribe it to those suffering from these conditions.
If you have a history of Tourette syndrome, motor or facial tics or uncontrollable movements that are repeated (or repeated sounds or phrases) are not a good reason to take methylphenidate since it may trigger these symptoms. Inform your doctor whether any of the following conditions are present in your case such as glaucoma, an overactive thyroid gland; or any other symptoms like anxiety or tension. Avoid drinking alcohol when you are taking the chewable long-acting tablet (Quillichew-ER) or the long-acting tablet (Cotempla-XR-ODT) because they contain artificial sweetener Aspartame. It's also important to inform your doctor if your child has phenylketonuria, an inherited condition that can cause a rare brain disease known as PKU and requires a diet free from phenylalanine.
In some children, methylphenidate may slow the rate of growth and weight, which is why doctors typically suggest regular assessments of your child's growth and progress using an incline-weight chart. There's also the risk of priapism, an abnormal erectile dysfunction which can be caused by 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 certain blood thinners such as warfarin which is used by patients who undergo surgery to stop blood clots. Women who are pregnant should be cautious about it because it can 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 prolonged periods of time because it's not clear how safe and effective it is in the long run.