Do We Regard Focalin As A Controlled Substance?
So, Is Focalin a controlled substance? The answer is yes. Focalin’s official website regards it as a CII controlled substance. This means that one needs a prescription in order to obtain Focalin. If you have a prescription for Focalin, follow it. And follow it to the letter. Never deviate from your prescription. Take the precise dose, no more and no less. Do not take Focalin with alcohol. Never give away, or sell, your prescription. If you do not possess a prescription for Focalin, do not take any. Like any controlled substance, there is a risk of addiction or abuse. You should always be honest with your prescribing doctor or psychiatrist about any history of addiction in yourself or your family.
In this article, ARIA examines Focalin and the following topics:
- What is Focalin, is Focalin a controlled substance?
- How is Focalin prescribed and what for?
- An explanation of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
- Focalin vs. Adderall: Which is better?
- Help! I need more information about Focalin!
What Is Focalin?
The chemical name for Focalin is dexmethylphenidate. Focalin belongs to a class of drugs called CNS stimulants. CNS stands for “central nervous system.” The CNS consists of the brain and the spinal cord. From here, the nerves extend into the body. The brain sends messages to the rest of the body. Since Focalin works as a depressant, it speeds up this messaging process.
What Is Focalin Prescribed For?
Focalin helps treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It works by manipulating neurotransmitters in the brain. Neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine can influence the development of ADHD. If you have been diagnosed with ADHD, speak to your treatment provider about Focalin. Is Focalin a controlled substance? The answer is yes. To find out more information about ADHD, continue reading and how it may be treated.
What Is Attention-deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)?
Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) refers to a specific mental illness. Those with ADHD struggle with concentration and impulsivity. They may have difficulty focusing. Sometimes they might appear to have excess energy. ADHD manifests a bit differently in adults than in children. Currently, Focalin has not been approved for consumption by anyone under age 6.
ADHD In Children
A child diagnosed with ADHD could have a propensity to daydream. They also may find it hard to complete schoolwork. Kids with ADHD also tend to have trouble sitting still. Sometimes these ADHD symptoms may go undetected. An adult authority figure may misunderstand these symptoms. They could misread and label these behaviors as defiant. Often, the symptoms may indicate the presence of anxiety in the child.
ADHD In Adults
We must remember that adults can have ADHD as well. As with children, adults with ADHD may have problems controlling their impulses. They can become impatient if they lack stimulation. Adults with ADHD might be given for temper tantrums. Furthermore, they do not deal well with stress. It is important to remember that adults with ADHD are also more likely to develop substance use disorder. Remember earlier we asked the question: Is Focalin a controlled substance? There are good reasons why we are asking this question.
Different Types Of ADHD
As with many mental health terms, different subcategories of ADHD exist. Do not attempt to self-diagnose. Likewise, do not use this guide to diagnose anyone else. Rather, use this information to gain understanding.
3 TYPES OF ADHD:
- Predominantly inattentive: has problems completing jobs and assignments, difficulty maintaining attention
- Predominantly hyperactive-impulsive: struggles with impatience, cannot remain still for long periods of time, has tendency to cause accidents
- Combined: has problems associated with both other types
Focalin Vs. Adderall: Which Is Better?
Most people have heard of Adderall. It remains a staple in ADHD treatment. In use since 1960, Adderall has become available in generic form. Like Focalin, Adderall remains a controlled substance. It requires a prescription. As the veteran medication, Adderall has the advantage of familiarity. It may help increase attention and reduce impulsivity. According to the FDA, Focalin has likewise shown promise for relieving symptoms of ADHD. But, Is Focalin a controlled substance? The answer is yes, like Adderall it has potential for abuse and the DEA schedules it accordingly.
What About Side Effects?
Both Focalin and Adderall have similar side effects. Since they belong to the category of CNS stimulants, they force the brain to work faster. When the brain works faster, the body’s internal processes work faster. Consequently, someone taking either Focalin or Adderall may feel some discomfort.
Side effects for both drugs include things like:
- Chest pain
- Trouble breathing
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Heart problems
Likelihood Of Abuse
Adderall has a high potential for abuse. Likewise, Focalin can become likely to cause dependence. We should not consider either drug “better” or “worse” in this regard. Treating mental illness often feel like trial and error. Some clients respond well to certain medications. Those same medications might not work well for other clients.
In Focalin vs. Adderall, which does one choose? That decision falls to you and your healthcare provider. If you think a certain medication might work for you, speak to your prescriber. Medications affect people differently. And often, we don’t know how they affect us until we try them.
Help! I Need More Information About Focalin!
We do regard Focalin as a controlled substance. To obtain Focalin, one must first get a prescription. Should you need more information about Focalin, ARIA can provide anything you need.
If you or someone you love struggles with addiction, contact ARIA immediately. Don’t wait. Initiate and take action.