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StimulantsAccording to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, "Stimulant medications including amphetamines (e.g., Adderall) and methylphenidate (e.g., Ritalin and Concerta) are often prescribed" and "have a calming and “focusing” effect on individuals with ADHD". All stimulants increase the neurotransmitter dopamine, which is associated with attention, pleasure and movement. When prescribed, doses start low and gradually increase until they reach the optimum level for that particular individual. However, if abused, the stimulant can create a state of euphoria which can ultimately lead to addiction.
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Non-stimulantsStimulants can cause bad reactions in some people and even addiction. Intuniv, Kapvay and Strattera are a few examples of non-stimulants, which are sometimes approved for certain age groups and sometimes for a majority of the population. Strattera works by boosting the norepinephrine in the brain. Non-stimulants tend to not cause the agitation, sleeping problems, or decreased appetite that stimulants can. They also tend to be longer lasting opposed to the stimulants that can abruptly take effect and then wear off as quickly as they came.
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