ADHD Stimulant Medication
Stimulants can help with symptoms such as hyperactivity and inattention, with effects typically felt within 30 to 60 minutes. They are the first line of treatment for people suffering from ADHD.
Stimulants alter the activity of key neurotransmitters dopamine and noradrenaline in the tiny gaps between neurons, referred to as synapses. They also improve communication between neurons.
Methamphetamine
Methamphetamine is also known as crystal, ice or speed, is a powerful stimulant drug that can cause dangerous side effects. It enhances talkativeness and activity it also reduces appetite and gives a pleasant feeling of joy. It can also lead to changes in blood pressure as well as heart rate and body temperature. Some people who use meth may develop poor circulation to their fingers and toes this is known as Raynaud's phenomenon. Methamphetamine can cause many other serious health problems, including severe brain damage.
Meth is available in prescription and nonprescription versions. It's typically taken orally and comes in immediate-release, extended-release and controlled-release formulations. It's often abused and can result in a variety of adverse health effects including heart disease, addiction and overdose.
Meth is generally more hazardous and less effective than the drugs used to treat ADHD. Stimulants work by increasing the levels of certain hormones in the brain such as norepinephrine and dopamine. The drugs include the brand-name ones methylphenidate, atomoxetine and dexmethylphenidate. These are all forms of amphetamine and come in controlled-release oral, immediate-release or extended-release versions.
Most of these medicines are prescribed by physicians for short-term use. Doctors generally prescribe the lowest dosage of medication that is possible to reduce the risk of adverse reactions and misuse. They also check the patient for signs of addiction and dependence.
Addiction to stimulants is a major problem for young people, and it can be a challenge to stop the habit. Even if a person is using meth occasionally, they may become dependent and experience symptoms like irritability and anxiety.
Long-term methamphetamine use can cause weight loss and malnutrition as well as serious dental or health problems. Mental health issues like depression can be triggered through methamphetamine usage for a long time. People who use meth regularly tend to lose interest in previously engaged in activities they enjoyed.
adhd medication uk is a Schedule II controlled substance. Avoid taking this drug if pregnant or nursing. It's also dangerous to mix meth with other drugs, including alcohol, cocaine/crack and opiates.
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate is the first-line treatment used to treat ADHD in children and adults. It's a central nervous system stimulant, which means it stimulates the parts of the brain that are inactive in people with ADHD and aids them in focusing and concentrate. It also improves their ability to plan, organise and manage their emotions. Methylphenidate also acts as a dopamine and noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor. It blocks the chemical dopamine and noradrenaline from getting taken back up into the nerve cells after they've been released permitting them to stay longer and to have a greater impact on the brain.
In the doses recommended for ADHD, methylphenidate isn't able to cause a "high". It is also not addictive. But, it's a controlled drug, and there's still a risk of abuse or addiction. Your doctor will write your prescription with additional information that makes it more difficult to copy or alter and you should only use the medication as directed by your doctor. Low doses of stimulants that are used to treat ADHD are not habit-forming. However, some individuals develop a tolerance and will need to increase their dosage in time.
This could cause negative side effects, such as headaches and stomach upsets, dizziness and blurred vision. It's crucial to let your doctor know if your child suffers from these issues. Long-term use of methylphenidate can result in irregular heartbeats as well as an increase in blood pressure. These problems are more likely to occur if the drug is taken with nitrates or opiates, which is the reason doctors don't prescribe it to people with these conditions.
If you have an ancestral history of Tourette's syndrome or facial or motor tics (repeated uncontrollable movements or repetitive words or sounds) you shouldn't use methylphenidate as it could cause these tics. 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 while taking the chewable long-acting tablet (Quillichew-ER) or the long-acting tablet (Cotempla-XR-ODT), as these contain artificial sweeteners Aspartame. It is important to inform your doctor if you think your child suffers from Phenylketonuria. This is an inherited condition that is a rare type of brain disease called PKU. It requires a diet free of Phenylalanine.
Certain children are affected by methylphenidate, a substance that can slow their growth and weight. This is why doctors recommend that you regularly examine your child's growth using an incline-weight graph. Certain CNS stimulants can also cause priapism - an abnormal erectile disorder.
Methylphenidate may interact with certain medications, including decongestants or cold and allergy medicines containing the ingredient ephedrine. It may also interact negatively with blood thinners, like warfarin, which is used by patients undergoing surgery to prevent blood clots. Pregnant women should also avoid it as it could cause serotonin-induced syndrome, a serious condition that could be life-threatening. In such cases, you must seek medical attention immediately. It's also not recommended to use methylphenidate over a long period of time, since it's unclear how it's safe and effective when used for long-term use.