Treatment of Add
Add is usually treated by psychosocial and medical treatment. Treatments for ADHD may include stimulants like methylphenidate and amphetamine compounds or non-stimulant medications like atomoxetine (Strattera), bupropion (Wellbutrin) and tricyclic antidepressants. Clonidine, a mood stabilizer, and Guanfacine (Catapres, Kapvay) can also be used for the treatment of comorbidity in mood lability.
Stimulants
Stimulants affect the central nervous system to increase the level of alertness and vigor. They could be prescribed medications, such as amphetamines and dextroamphetamines. They can also be illegal substances, like cocaine. Stimulants can be swallowed in tablets or crushed, snorted and sucked, or dissolving in liquids to be injected into the bloodstream. When used in excess, stimulants may cause overstimulation that may cause anxiety or paranoia, jitters, stomach cramps, headaches and aggression. Long-term use of stimulants may lead to addiction and dependence.
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 reducing fatigue. These drugs can improve mood, decrease anxiety, and aid in weight loss for some people.
treating add like Ritalin and Adderall are both considered stimulants. These drugs can be prescribed by doctors to treat ADHD and Narcolepsy. They can boost alertness and decrease impulsivity. These medications are low-risk of addiction and are taken according to your doctor's instructions.
There are non-stimulant drugs available to treat ADHD. However, they require longer to kick in and don't perform as effectively as stimulants. Some of these medications like atomoxetine (Provigil) are not controlled substances and carry an lower risk of abuse or addiction.
What are the symptoms of a stimulant use disorder?
The dependency on stimulants can be psychological or physical. Psychologically dependent stimulants feel they have a "need", and can't perform without the drug. Those who are physically addicted to stimulants suffer withdrawal symptoms after they stop taking the drug.
Adolescents who are treated with stimulants have a lower risk of later developing an addiction to alcohol or other drugs. The protective effect decreases as adolescents age.
What happens when stimulants are abused?
Some people use stimulants for weight loss or to increase concentration Others use them recreationally. Students and athletes at colleges are frequently known to use prescription stimulants to enhance performance. Parents and teens should monitor their children to ensure they are only taking the medicine as prescribed by a physician. Children with prescriptions might be enticed to share or sell their medication.
It's never too late to seek treatment, regardless of the reason you or someone around you is using stimulants. At Caron we provide an extensive treatment program for addiction disorders, which includes stimulant addiction. Our staff will help you choose the best treatment program to meet your needs and personal preferences. If you're ready make a change in your life, contact us now. There is a wide variety of resources to help you in your journey 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 hardest however it could have the biggest impact on your life. The most beneficial option for yourself and the people closest to you is to select recovery.