Treatment of Add
Treatment for Add typically involves psychosocial and medication. Medications for ADHD may include stimulants like amphetamine and methylphenidate, as well as non-stimulant medications like atomoxetine (Strattera) and bupropion (Wellbutrin) and tricyclic antidepressants. Clonidine, a mood stabilizer, and Guanfacine (Catapres, Kapvay) can be used to treat comorbid mood lability.
Stimulants
Stimulants are a category of drugs that work on the central nervous system to improve alertness and energy. They can be prescription medications such as amphetamines or dextroamphetamines, as well as illicit substances, such as cocaine. The stimulants can be consumed in tablet form or crushed, snorted and sucked, or mixed with liquid to inject into the bloodstream. When used in excess, stimulants may induce overstimulation, which can result in anxiety and jitters, as well as paranoia, headaches, stomach cramps and aggression. Long-term use of stimulants may result in dependence and addiction.
Prescription stimulants are used to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. They help by increasing dopamine levels and norepinephrine levels at brain synapses, enhancing concentration and decreasing fatigue. treatment of add can also improve mood, decrease impulsivity and promote weight loss in some people.
Both Ritalin and Adderall can be classified as stimulants. These drugs are prescribed by doctors to treat ADHD and narcolepsy. They can increase the alertness of people and decrease their the impulsivity. These medications are not at risk of addiction and can be taken according to the instructions of your physician.
There are non-stimulant medicines available to treat ADHD. However, they take longer to kick in and don't perform as well as stimulants. Certain of these medications aren't controlled substances and are less likely to be a cause of abuse or addiction.
What are the symptoms of a disordered use of stimulants?
Dependence on stimulants can be psychological or physical. People who are psychologically dependent on stimulants develop an "need" for the drug and believe that they cannot function without it. People who are physically dependent on stimulants find themselves experiencing withdrawal symptoms when they stop taking the drug.
Adolescents who are treated with stimulants are less likely to develop addiction later on. This protective effect diminishes as teens age.
How are stimulants abused?
While many people use stimulants to focus or lose weight, others use them for leisure purposes. Students and athletes in college are often known to abuse prescription stimulants to enhance performance. It is important for parents and teens to keep an eye on their children's behavior and make sure they're taking the medication only as directed by a physician. Children who have prescriptions may be enticed by the desire to sell or share them.
No matter the reason you or someone you love is abusing stimulants, it's never too for you to seek help. At Caron we offer an extensive treatment program for addiction disorders, including stimulant addiction. Our staff will help you select the right treatment plan for you and your needs. Contact us today if are ready to make a change in your life. You will find a broad range of resources to assist you on your road to recovery. It is possible to overcome the addiction to stimulants and start a new chapter of happiness and health. The first step is always the most difficult however it could be the most significant for your life. The most beneficial option for yourself and those closest to you is to choose recovery.