Do you also have difficulty staying focused? Do you feel restless and unable to manage your workload? Your doctor may have prescribed medication for you because of these symptoms. Or maybe a friend or relative of yours is taking medication for this condition. In the past, we thought that this was a disease that only affected young children. But now this condition ( attention deficit hyperactivity disorder - ADHD) is also being diagnosed among adults. At the same time, the use of medications for it has also increased significantly. So today, let's talk about this.
What is ADHD? Does it really affect adults?
Simply put, ADHD is a condition caused by changes in the way our brains function. This can make it difficult for a person to maintain attention, control their impulsiveness, and make quick decisions.
While it was once thought to be limited to childhood, we now know that many people who had ADHD as children continue to have its effects into adulthood. Also, while it was once thought to only affect boys, doctors are now recognizing that girls and women also have the condition. This is why there has been a recent increase in the number of adults, especially women, seeking treatment for the condition.
The medicine given for this and what is called 'misuse'
The main type of medication used to treat ADHD is stimulants, or what we call ``Stimulants``. Of these, the `` Amphetamines`` class (such as Adderall and Vyvanse) are the most commonly used. When taken as directed by a doctor, in the correct dosage and for the correct duration, these are generally safe and very effective medications.
But, the problem begins when these are 'disused'. What does that mean?
- Using this medicine without a doctor's prescription (perhaps by asking a friend).
- Taking more than the prescribed dose (for example, taking two or three pills at once to study for an exam).
- Using these medications for purposes other than those prescribed by a doctor.
A recent large study found that about one in four (1/4) adults who use these medications misuse them. In addition, about one in ten people develop a condition called ``Prescription Substance Use Disorder (PSUD)`` that causes problems in their lives because of these medications.
"It's not for nothing that these medications are classified as controlled substances, only available with a doctor's prescription. They have the potential to be addictive. That's why we need to be very careful about this."
Risk of addiction and dangerous symptoms
These medications can be harmful to our bodies and minds when used incorrectly. If taken in high doses, they can cause serious, even life-threatening conditions such as heart rhythm abnormalities (arrhythmias), seizures, or stroke. Therefore, if you or someone you know is using these medications, it is very important to be aware of these dangerous symptoms.
Let's look at the table below to see what the symptoms of drug abuse and addiction are.
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Signs of addiction | They spend most of their day searching for, using, or trying to escape the effects of their medication. If they don't take their medication, they feel like their whole life is in chaos. |
| Withdrawal Symptoms | Things like sleeping for long periods of time, severe depression, frequent irritability, and overeating. |
| Emergency symptoms of an overdose | Rapid heartbeat, chest pain, seizures, severe confusion. If you see anything like this , immediately take yourself to the nearest hospital's Emergency Department (ETU) . |
Why is diagnosing ADHD so complicated?
Diagnosing ADHD in adults can be tricky, as symptoms can be similar to other mental health conditions. For example:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Other drug use
Therefore, a qualified doctor can only accurately diagnose ADHD after examining all of these factors and confirming whether these symptoms have been present since childhood. Therefore, if you have any doubts about this, be sure to consult a qualified doctor, especially a psychiatrist, for advice.
How to reduce risk and use medicine safely?
Not everyone who uses these drugs will become addicted. There are some things you can do to reduce your risk.
1. Maintain a good relationship with your doctor: Be open and honest with the doctor who prescribed your medication. If you are experiencing side effects from the medication, if the dosage seems inadequate, or if you are worried about becoming addicted, tell them all.
2. Take your medication before it runs out: Don't wait until the last minute to take your medication again before it runs out. If you run out of medication suddenly, you may experience withdrawal symptoms and feel uncomfortable.
3. Avoid giving your medication to others: Do not give your medication to anyone else for any reason . It is not only illegal, but it can also be dangerous to that person's life.
4. Protect your privacy: Don't tell everyone that you're taking this type of medication. Especially among young people, there is a high chance that they will ask for and share medication under the influence of friends. So be a little discreet about this.
5. Ask for help: If you feel you are experiencing symptoms of addiction, please don't be afraid to ask for help. You can get help from your doctor, a psychiatrist, or a psychiatric clinic in a government hospital. You can also get basic advice by calling the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) on 1926 .
Remember, ADHD is a manageable condition. Using medication safely, under proper medical supervision, can make your life much easier. The problem lies in misuse and addiction.
Take-Home Message
- ADHD is a real medical condition that affects both children and adults.
- Stimulants are very effective and safe if taken under the advice of a doctor.
- Misuse of this medication without medical advice, in high doses, or for other purposes can lead to addiction and serious health problems.
- Do not share your medicine with anyone else. Also, do not borrow medicine from others and use it.
- If you have even the slightest suspicion of an addiction, don't be afraid to talk to your doctor . Asking for help is a sign of strength.
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