Adderall And ADHD Analysis

There are several stimulant medications that are commonly used throughout the world to treat behavioral disorders for attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD. Some of the medications used to treat this disorder are Adderall, Concerta, Focalin, Methylin, Ritalin, and Vyvanse. These are all stimulant drugs that help treat the symptoms of ADHD in very similar ways. I will specifically be focusing on Adderall. Adderall is constructed of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine which are central nervous system stimulants. Central nervous system stimulants affect the chemicals in the brain and nerves that contribute to hyperactivity and impulse control. Not only can Adderall be a life changing medication when prescribed to a patient with ADHD,

Adderall is a combo drug that includes Amphetamine and Dextroamphetimine. Adderall is considered a schedule II drug, which means that it has a high potential for abuse, has severe restriction and may or may not lead to extreme psychological or physical dependence. The physical appearance differs between Adderall and Adderall XR (extended release). Adderall is a round peach pill, while Adderall XR is a blue or orange oblong shaped capsule filled with small beads that dissolve at different times in the digestive tract. It is used to help increase attention in patients who are overactive, easily distractible, and have trouble concentrating. Adderall “brings the brain down from a state of overstimulation to one of baseline stimulation” (medicaldaily.com). It was approved in 1960 by the Food & Drug Administration (FDA). Adderall is an immediate-release tablet that should be given in the morning, and if necessary, an additional dose can be given 4-6 hours later. The maximum dose of the non-extended version is 40 mg daily. If 40 mg is exceeded it would generally be for someone that suffers from narcolepsy. Adderall XR is an extended release capsule that lasts longer than regular Adderall, and should only be given once a day. If taken more than once day insomnia can become an issue. The generic name is amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. It is a synthetic,

While dopamine satisfies the nucleus accumbens, which is the system in charge of focus, alertness, and fight-or-flight response, the sympathetic nervous system is activated by the epinephrine. Norepinephrine helps the communication between neurons and helps these activities last longer. These effects are the reason Adderall is prescribed to ADHD patients. However, these effects are also the reason why it has been found to be a prescription drug that is commonly abused by many. Known as the "smart drug" or "study drug" by many college-aged students, it is unfortunately not that hard for one to get their hands on