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drug interactions and even masking of some of the symptoms may
occur. Rarely, antidepressants do the job alone; hence a sleep aid is
introduced. Psychosis requires the use of antipsychotic meds. If
bipolar disorder is suspected, then mood stabilizers are used. It is
common to see chronic patients on 3-4 psychotropic medications.

Adult ADHD, although it has its roots in early childhood, is a rather
common (10-15%) presentation in amphetamine abusers/addicts.
Amphetamines, like the stimulants physicians use for the treatment of
this disorder, help improve attention, focus, memory and a general
feeling of well-being. With treatment, patients are more productive,
finish projects and their organizational skills improve. In children, the
most prescribed medication is Ritalin. Although it is not an
amphetamine, its stimulant action is very similar to amphetamine. Due
to its addiction potential, its use in addicts is somewhat controversial.
Dexedrine and Adderall are amphetamine-based products; hence their
use should be closely monitored. Non-stimulant medications are
Strattera and Wellbutrin which are alternatives in addicts. All of these
medications can curb the appetite and cause weight loss and insomnia.

Personality disorders, also know as character disorders, are common
among this population. Sometimes these disorders are referred to as
“Axis II” diagnosis, referring to the DSM IV manual. Although it is
hard to treat these disorders (e.g. antisocial and borderline), it is
important to treat the accompanying symptoms of depression, anxiety,
panic, obsessive-compulsive, and sleep problems. Treating these
symptoms improves the odds for these patients to stay clean, and rely
less on street drugs. Acting-out is common with this diagnosis, and
the treating physician or therapist should be careful in preventing these
patients from accusing them of improper or unprofessional conduct.
They seem to always complain about their lives, and how the system
and provider are not helping them.