How Does ADHD Medication Work?
When one neuron sends a message to another, it makes use of neurotransmitters or chemicals. These need to travel through a tiny gap known as a synapse.
Certain ADHD medications can make the transmission of these messages more effective. They either help neurons release more neurotransmitters or slow the reuptake process (called reuptake inhibitors).
Doctors begin ADHD patients with a lower dose and monitor their reaction. They alter the dosage over time to find a "sweet spot" -the lowest dosage that provides clear improvement in symptoms with very few adverse effects.
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate is the primary type of medication doctors frequently attempt to offer to children suffering from ADHD. It helps by increasing the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in kids' brains, which helps them focus and pay attention. It also reduces their hyperactivity and impulsivity. It is important to keep in mind that the methylphenidate drug is a controlled substance and should only be taken under the supervision of a doctor.
Ritalin is the most common methylphenidate drug. It is available in immediate-release tablets or chewable tablets as well as capsules. Some versions of the medication contain aspartame (an artificial sweetener), which can be hazardous for people suffering from phenylketonuria, an inherited condition causing severe intellectual disability. Be adhd in adults medication to tell your doctor about any food allergies that you or your child may have.
Researchers have discovered that methylphenidate decreases abnormal activity in various parts of the brain, including the nucleus accumbens as well as a network of three brain networks that play a role in the process of adaptive control. This may explain why methylphenidate has been proven to be one of the most effective medications in treating ADHD.
The adverse effects of stimulants can include headaches, nausea, sleepiness, anxiety, agitation or agitation and tics. These are rare but can be serious. It is important to consult your doctor immediately if you notice any of these symptoms. It is also important to inform your doctor if you or your child is suffering from allergies, the presence of heart disease or bipolar disorder, depression or any other mental health issues such as glaucoma, a history of seizures or strokes or if you are taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), linezolid (Zyvox) or Methylene Blue, or Phenelzine (Nardil). It is essential to take your methylphenidate in accordance with the prescription of your doctor.
Amphetamines
Amphetamines speed up messages between brain cells and can help you concentrate your thoughts and ignore distractions. They are the most common treatments for ADHD in both adults and children. They increase the levels neurotransmitters, dopamine and norepinephrine, in your brain. Amphetamines are available in both short-acting (immediate-release) and intermediate or long-acting versions. They can be taken either orally or via injection.
Some people are troubled by the negative side effects of stimulant medications, like restlessness, difficulty sleeping, or an increased heart rate and elevated blood pressure. Your doctor will observe the symptoms and alter the dosage to find the most appropriate one for you. Some patients may need to take a combination of medications to get the desired effects.
Stimulant drugs affect two important neurotransmitters in the pre-frontal cortex, which is the brain part that helps regulate emotions and control your behavior. They are prescribed for a wide range of mental health conditions that include ADD/ADHD, as well as other ailments like bipolar disorder, narcolepsy and eating disorders.
The most commonly used types of stimulant drugs are amphetamines and methylphenidates. The FDA has approved dozens of brand-name stimulants to treat ADHD. They are available in different forms ranging from short-acting stimulants to longer-acting stimulants - and can be taken orally, or injected. Amphetamines can be abused by teenagers who use them to keep awake and study for tests or by truck drivers and students that require more energy for endurance sports. They can also trigger physical and psychological problems if misused, especially with higher doses.
Non-stimulant medications can also be effective in treating ADHD. They include atomoxetine, clonidine, and Guanfacine. They are in the same class as antidepressants and belong to the norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitors and alpha-2 adrenergic agonists classes. They are based with the same chemicals as stimulants but are less likely to cause more tics which is a concern for those with Tourette's Syndrome.
Short-acting stimulants
These medications are used for treating teens and children suffering from ADHD. They can be taken through the mouth or applied to the skin. They are available in liquids and patches and pills that can either be chewed or swallowed. They are typically only available with a prescription from a doctor. These include methylphenidate (brand names Ritalin, Concerta, Focalin, Daytrana), and amphetamines (Adderall, Dexedrine, Vyvanse). Short-acting stimulants perform quickly and last for 3 to 6 hours.
These medications ease the symptoms of 70% to 80% of children and adults suffering from ADHD. They reduce fidgeting and interrupting, making it easier to complete tasks. They also help improve academic performance and interpersonal relationships. They can't correct the root issues that are the cause of ADHD. So it's important to use them in conjunction with behavior therapy.
It is also important to know that ADHD medications can cause side effects. They can cause you to be drowsy or cranky, and they may interfere with your sleep. These effects are usually mild and will disappear once the medication has left your system. Your doctor might suggest you take an initial dose of a small amount and then increase it gradually. They'll observe how the medication affects you or your child and also look for any signs of problems.
Finding the appropriate medication for your child or yourself could take some time. It is recommended to speak openly with your health professional. They may suggest a change in the frequency of medication that you or your child take or if any medication is required at all. They'll also be looking to determine whether your child or you is suffering from any other medical or mental health issues.
Intermediate stimulants
Stimulants manage ADHD symptoms by altering neurotransmitter activity in the brain. This increases the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine, two chemicals that are essential for the functioning of the pre-frontal cortex of the brain (think of it as your "secretary" in the executive functioning part of your brain). The majority of children with ADHD respond well to stimulant medication. Your doctor will work with you to figure out which kind of medication and dosage is best for you. You may have to try different types of medication before finding the one that is right for you or your child.
You can take these stimulants in chewable tablets or liquid form. They begin to work quickly and last for three to four hours. The "crash effect" can occur when the medication wears off. It is characterized by rapid drop in energy levels and an intense hunger. There are also long-acting stimulants like dexamfetamine or Lisdexamfetamine. These are more complex and require prescriptions. adhd adult medication are injected into the bloodstream, and become active in the red blood cells.
It can take time to find the correct dosage, medication and schedule for you or your child. Your doctor will track how you respond to medication and watch for problems such as sleep disturbances. If you or your child are not responding well to stimulants, they will also discuss non-stimulant medications.
Never stop or change your ADHD medications without first consulting your doctor. It's also important to inform your doctor about any over-the counter medications and supplements you are taking, as certain of them may interfere with certain ADHD medication.
Long-acting stimulants
For 70-80% of adults and children with ADHD stimulant medications work in reducing hyperactivity, interrupting behavior as well as impulsivity, fidgeting and fidgeting. They can also help people focus, finish tasks, and maintain relationships. However, they may not reduce moodiness or other troublesome symptoms. They may also cause negative side effects, such as loss of appetite, insomnia and anxiety. They can also trigger stomachaches, changes in the heart rhythm and high blood pressure.
The medicines work in stages aiding in the treatment of ADHD symptoms throughout the day. Most of these drugs begin to work in 30 to 60 minutes, and disappear after 3 to 6 hours. adhd adult medication can be used by themselves or in conjunction with other types of ADHD treatment, like behavioral therapy.
Some of these long-acting stimulants, such as atomoxetine-ER (Intuniv) and Guanfacine (Strattera) are able to last all night and the next morning. Some doctors recommend taking them in the afternoon, to avoid patients from having to take additional medication at school or after school.
Long-acting stimulants do not increase dopamine levels as much as short- and intermediate-acting drugs, but they do boost their levels significantly. As a result, they don't produce the same type of rebound effects as be experienced with shorter-acting substances.
Long-acting stimulants, because of the potential for adverse reactions they are typically prescribed as a last resort for adults suffering from ADHD and teens who are older. However, they can also be utilized as a first-line treatment to some people with ADHD who haven't responded to other medications.
While medication can aid in improving concentration and self-control, it's not the whole answer for those with ADHD. Combined with a healthy sleep routine and healthy eating habits, along with other self-help strategies, it's often possible to decrease or eliminate the need for ADHD medicine.