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compiled by Kevin Furmaga, Pharm.D
Stimulant medications are used in psychiatry primarily to treat Attention
Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
| Generic (Common) Name |
|
Brand Name |
| |
|
|
| Amphetamie sulfate |
|
Generics only |
| |
|
|
| Dextroamphetamine |
|
Dexedrine® |
| |
|
|
| Methylphenidate |
|
Concerta®, Ritalin® |
| |
|
|
Combination of
Amphetamie sulfate,
Amphetamie aspartate,
Dextroamphetamine |
|
Adderall® |
All medications in this group work by boosting the norepinepherine and
dopamine chemical messenger systems. Their effects on these systems differ
from antidepressants that also target these chemical messengers. By targeting
these 2 brain chemicals, stimulants "strengthen" the brain's
ability to ignore (filter-out) unimportant sound and movement stimuli
that are distracting. This improves the ability of people with ADD and
ADHD to focus and concentrate. These medications can be habit-forming.
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TODAY: Psychopharmacology in the New Millennium
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