STIMULANT ADDICTION TREATMENT
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Last Medically Reviewed 15 November 2022
STIMULANT ADDICTION TREATMENT
Stimulants are often abused by students and athletes looking to enhance their performance. They are also abused by people with eating disorders. Stimulants are highly addictive and can have dangerous effects on the body. Often, people who abuse stimulants – whether in prescription drug form or illicit – may turn to alcohol abuse to counteract some of the more unpleasant stimulant side effects.
WHAT ARE
STIMULANTS
Stimulants work by increasing alertness and cognitive performance by acting on the central nervous system (CNS). Stimulants include both prescription and illegal drugs. Stimulants can be taken orally, and may also be snorted or injected.
CNS stimulants are a type of medicine that stimulates the central nervous system. They function by increasing the brain’s levels of dopamine and norepinephrine neurotransmitters. Increased levels of these substances in the brain help improve concentration and lessen fatigue.
PRESCRIPTION
STIMULANTS
Amphetamines, Methylphenidates, and Dextroamphetamines are the most commonly prescribed stimulants.Prescription stimulants are often used to treat Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), narcolepsy, and obesity. These drugs improve focus, alertness, energy, and concentration. Although Amphetamines (such as Adderall) and Methylphenidates (such as Ritalin) have different chemical structures, the consequences of misusing these stimulants are essentially the same.
The following are some of the most well-known prescription stimulants:
Ritalin
In 1955, this prescription drug was licensed for the treatment of hyperactive children. Ritalin is a Methylphenidate, which distinguishes it from Dexedrine and Adderall. It functions similarly to amphetamines, however, it is less potent than amphetamine-based medications.
Adderall
Adderall is the most popular medication used to treat ADHD and is the most widely prescribed Amphetamine in the United States. Adderall is often abused by students and people who need to work long hours. Many people seek adderall addiction treatment in the United States yearly.
Ephedrine
Ephedrine is typically used as an appetite suppressant and bronchodilator for asthma sufferers, although it also has stimulant-like properties. Ephedrine is also used to treat bronchial asthma symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest tightness, and wheezing. It is also used to treat obesity and chronic low blood pressure. It is frequently accessible over the counter and is often used as an ingredient in illegal Meth laboratories.
Desoxyn
Desoxyn is a Methamphetamine that is only available with a prescription. First introduced in 1947, it was the first drug used to treat obesity. It is also used to treat ADHD.
Concerta
Concerta is a relatively new ADHD medication that was approved in 2000. Concerta is an extended-release version of Ritalin.
ILLEGAL
STIMULANTS
Cocaine, Crack, and Crystal Meth are all illegal stimulants. All of these drugs have effects comparable to prescription stimulants. However, although prescription stimulants are formulated to be slowrelease, illegal stimulants generate a shorter and more powerful high.
SIDE EFFECTS OF
STIMULANT ABUSE
Because of their great potential for misuse and addiction, prescription stimulants are classed as Schedule II substances under the Controlled Substances Act. Every month, around 900,000 Americans take prescription stimulants.
Some of the side effects of stimulants include:
• Decreased appetite
• Increased energy
• Talkativeness
• Nervousness and anxiety
• Raised blood pressure
• Euphoria
Stimulants increase the release of dopamine, the brain’s pleasureinducing neurotransmitter. After prolonged use of stimulants, the brain is unable to regulate the release of dopamine. This leads to physical addiction.
SIGNS OF STIMULANT
ADDICTION
• Dilated Pupils
• Weight Loss
• Shaking, jittery movements
• Sweating
• Lying to Obtain Stimulants
• Restlessness
• Rapid Heart Rate
• Anxiety
Individuals who abuse stimulants are at risk of cardiac arrest, stroke, cardiac arrhythmia, and other complications. Stimulant abuse to improve sports performance is especially harmful since stimulants raise blood pressure. The combination of physical effort and stimulants increases the likelihood of cardiac arrest or stroke. Athletes have died as a result of stimulant use. The risks of using illicit stimulants are even greater. Aside from their addictive properties, long-term abuse of stimulants, such as Adderall abuse, can have many devastating effects on a person’s health.
These include:
• Anxiety
• Aggression
• Malnutrition
• Lung Damage
• Stroke
• Kidney Disease
• High Blood Pressure
TREATMENT FOR STIMULANT
SUBSTANCE ABUSE
The best way to overcome stimulant addiction is to check into an inpatient rehab facility for professional addiction treatment. At Psyclarity Health facilities, the patient will undergo medical detox, which is the first step in the healing process. The detox process is done under the 24/7 supervision of clinical staff, to ensure that the patient is comfortable during withdrawal. Stimulant withdrawal symptoms can be very uncomfortable and can lead the patient to relapse.
Stimulant withdrawal symptoms may include:
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Increased Appetite
• Fatigue
• Slowed Heart Rate
• Irritability
• Cravings
• Trouble Sleeping
In some cases, severe withdrawal symptoms may occur, such as psychosis, hallucinations and suicidal thoughts. In some cases, medication is administered to minimize the discomfort caused by withdrawal symptoms. Once detox is completed, the patient will partake in a range of therapy modalities, including psychotherapy, group therapy, and holistic healing.
Behavioral treatment is an effective way to help in treating stimulant addiction. Addiction to stimulants can be dangerous and even lifethreatening. Detox and withdrawal should never be done at home or without the guidance of medical professionals.
GET HELP FOR STIMULANT ADDICTION
AT PSYCLARITY HEALTH
If you or a loved one are struggling with Adderall addiction, or stimulant addiction of any kind, we can help. Our treatment centers throughout the United States offer premium addiction treatment that incorporate healing for mental disorders too. Get in touch with us to learn more about our substance abuse treatment centers and how we can help you get your life back.
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