There are many people who require medication after being diagnosed with ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder). These legitimately prescribed medications help them maintain full attention and focus in their lives. This allows them to focus in the classroom, in the workplace, and in other lifestyle situations that require full concentration, which may have been lacking in the past. By using these prescription drugs, they can improve school work, take tests effectively, and hold jobs smoothly. These medications allow them to retain what they learn and enhance their experience in school or the workplace. It is the abuse of these stimulants, by those who do not need them, that could quickly turn their use into a dangerous situation.
Large numbers of people do not need these medications to correct attention deficit disorder, but often choose to use them sporadically when studying, taking tests, or holding meetings in the workplace. They do not classify these stimulants as drugs that could create dangerous side effects, and are often completely unaware of the potential dangers of abusing them.
A closer look at these drugs allows a better understanding of the risks that are run when used sporadically without a full understanding of the implications.
Properties of ADHD medications:
Psychostimulants are the main medications used to treat ADHD. Although these medications stimulate the central nervous system, they have a calming effect on people who are actually battling ADHD.
These medications include:
Methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta, Metadate, Daytrana)
Dexmethylphenidate (Focalin)
Amphetamine-Dextroamphetamine (Adderall)
Dextroamphetamine (Dexedrine, Dextrostat)
Lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse)
Adderall and Ritalin are among the most widely used among these drugs and work well for those with true deficit difficulties. Adderall, in particular, is one of the most abused drugs among college students, as they do not consider it a drug in the correct sense of the word. Many believe that it is simply a stimulant substance, clearly stronger than coffee or any other type of caffeine, but with little risk or consequences. Little do they realize the risks associated with these stimulants.
Common side effects of ADHD medications:
Elevated heart rate
High blood pressure
Addiction
Dizziness
Dry mouth
Heart palpitations
Withdrawal symptoms
Anxiety
Depersonalization
Stomach ache
Insomnia
Deterioration of creativity
Irritability
Difficulty breathing
Paranoia
Nervousness
Depression
In rare cases, heart attack and sudden death.
Mental illness and psychosis in rare cases.
When these medications are used sporadically, without a prescription, the person is at greater risk of suffering some or many of the negative reactions mentioned above.
Reasons ADHD medications create difficulties and should not be taken sporadically:
The individual MUST be examined and evaluated by a physician, determining that this medication is appropriate for them.
Many believe that the “euphoric” reaction experienced after taking the drug is an indication that they have ADHD and need it, when in fact the opposite is true. These medications are only “lifesavers” for those with true ADHD.
One becomes physically and emotionally dependent on stimulants and loses self-confidence and self-esteem regarding one’s true ability to study, take tests, and feel comfortable navigating life.
They blindly join those taking these medications before learning the facts, risks, and dangers of these stimulants.
They ignore the fact that methylphenidate or amphetamine stimulants are quick and create real risks.
ER visits for these stimulants have increased dramatically in recent years.
They overlook the fact that alcohol combined with these stimulants can increase heart difficulties, even with normal doses of ADHD medications.
The increased incidence of anxiety and depersonalization is often due to the increased heart rate and the stimulating result of these medications.
Simply put, many find that increased memory and concentration while using these stimulants are not worth risking these difficult and often dangerous side effects. They also lose their self-esteem and confidence believing they need this extra “boost” every time they study for a test or attend a meeting at work. It creates a false sense of security along with an increased risk of very difficult adverse reactions.
Recovery from abusive use of ADHD medications:
The willingness to see these drugs for what they are rather than a suspected mild memory enhancer.
Realizing the dependency that has developed while taking these medications is both physical and emotional.
Use a natural anxiety and depersonalization treatment program to permanently eradicate symptoms.
Learn self-acceptance in relation to school and work performance, renouncing the risks associated with stimulant drugs.
Accept that one is dependent on these stimulants and learn to break this dependence effectively.
Weighing the risks against the benefits of using stimulants and coming to the conclusion that feeling “normal” and healthy outweighs the often devastating side effects associated with these medications.
Learn to counteract the withdrawal symptoms that often occur with discontinued use of these medications.
Giving up the urge to take a drug that can put you at both physical and mental risk when it has not been determined that you need a “boost” or stimulating help to navigate life.
Lastly, it helps you recognize your abilities and difficulties in life. There are alternatives to taking medication to improve your grades, school work, and position in the workplace. There are natural health tutors and tips that create a greater ability to be successful.
Take the time to lead a healthier life, through better sleep habits and creating a calm mind through meditation.
Learn to use food as medicine and the results can be amazing. You can create an alert mind and body without the complications of side effects or withdrawal symptoms.
Exercise in moderation to awaken a fatigued mind and body. Focus increases and spirits soar.
Keep in mind that, given the time and effort, your natural mind and body have the ability to focus, memorize, and retain information. Through good sleep habits, nutrition, vitamins, and exercise, you will be able to take full control of your life and achieve the same results on your own.