Stimulant Addiction

Stimulants are a class of drugs that heighten the body’s natural instincts and functions. The production of dopamine, the body’s happy chemical, is increased by stimulants, leading to an increase in a person’s energy levels and attention span. Stimulants are often called “uppers” because of this effect.

For persons with ADHD, stimulants help negate the negative effects of their disorder. They are safe and effective when they are taken as prescribed by a medical professional. When they are used to excess and by those who have not been prescribed them, however, they can be quite dangerous.

Adderall and Ritalin are the most commonly-prescribed prescription stimulants. Both are available in an extended-release form that contains pharmaceutical safeguards to prevent their full dosages from being released immediately, known respectively as Concerta and Adderall XR. Vyvanse is another extended-release prescription stimulant often prescribed to those suffering from ADHD or other mental disorders.

Adderall falls into the category of prescription amphetamines, along with ProCentra, Benzedrine, Dexedrine, and Dextrostat. Ritalin belongs to the drug family include methylphenidate, which also includes Concerta, Methylin, and Daytrana.