How Does ADHD Medication Work?
When one neuron sends a signal to another, it uses chemicals known as neurotransmitters. These chemicals must pass through a tiny gap known as a synapse.
Certain ADHD medications make the passing along of these messages more efficient. They may help neurons release more neurotransmitters or slow the process of reuptake (called Reuptake inhibitors).
Doctors start people with ADHD with a small dose of medication, and then monitor their reactions. They gradually adjust the dosage to find the "sweet spot," the lowest dose that results in a significant improvement in symptoms, and has a few side effects.
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate is the first drug that doctors try to help ADHD kids, is often Methylphenidate. It is a way to increase the amount of norepinephrine and dopamine in kids' brains, which helps them focus and pay attention. It also reduces their impulsivity and hyperactivity. It's important to remember that the methylphenidate drug is a controlled substance and should only be taken under the supervision of a physician.
Ritalin is the most well-known methylphenidate drug. It is available in immediate-release tablets as well as chewable tablets and capsules. Some versions of this medication contain the artificial sweetener aspartame, which may be hazardous for those suffering from phenylketonuria (an inherited condition that causes severe intellectual disability). Inform your doctor if or your child have food allergies.
Researchers have discovered that methylphenidate reduces aberrant activity, especially in the nucleus of accumbens as well as a network of brain networks that are involved in the process of adaptive control. This could explain why methylphenidate is one of the most effective drugs for treating ADHD.
The side effects of stimulants are headaches, nausea, insomnia, anxiety, agitation or the tics and agitation. These are rare however they can be serious. If you experience any of them you should contact your doctor immediately. You should also tell your doctor if your child has allergies or the presence of heart disease or depression, bipolar disorder, or other mental health problems, glaucoma, a history of seizures or strokes or if you are taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) like isocarboxazid (Marplan) or linezolid (Zyvox), methylene blue, or phenelzine (Nardil). It is essential to take methylphenidate exactly as recommended by your doctor.
Amphetamines
Amphetamines speed up messages between brain cells and can help you concentrate your thoughts and stay clear of distractions. These are the most commonly prescribed drugs for treating ADHD in children and adults. They boost the levels of neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine in your brain. Amphetamines can be found in short-acting (immediate release) and intermediate- or long-acting forms. They are available orally or through injection.
Some people have a difficult to deal with the negative side effects of stimulant drugs including insomnia, restlessness, or a rise in blood pressure and heart rate. Your doctor will observe your symptoms and adjust the dose to find the right one for you. Some people may need to take multiple medications to achieve the desired result.
Stimulant drugs affect two important neurotransmitters that are located in the prefrontal cortex. This is the part of the brain which regulates emotions and manages your behavior. These medications are prescribed for a broad range of mental health conditions such as ADD/ADHD and conditions such as bipolar disorder, narcolepsy, and eating disorders.
The most commonly used kinds of stimulant drugs are amphetamines and methylphenidates. The FDA has approved a variety of brand-name stimulants to treat ADHD. They are available in various types, from short-acting up to long-acting and are administered either by injection or orally. Truck drivers, students and teenagers who require more energy to compete in endurance sports can take amphetamines. They can also trigger physical and psychological problems if misused, particularly in higher doses.
Non-stimulant medicines can also be effective in treating ADHD. They include atomoxetine and 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 work on the same chemicals as stimulants but are less likely to cause the tics worse and cause problems for those with Tourette's Syndrome.
Short-acting stimulants
These medicines are used to treat children and teenagers with ADHD. These medications can be taken orally or applied to the skin. They are available in liquids and patches and pills that can either be chewed or swallowed. They are generally only available on prescription by a physician. The medications include methylphenidate (brand names Ritalin, Concerta, Focalin, Daytrana), and amphetamines (Adderall, Dexedrine, Vyvanse). Short-acting stimulants are fast acting and last between 3 and 6 hours.
These drugs relieve symptoms for 70-80 percent of adults and children with ADHD. They reduce fidgeting and interrupting, making it easier to complete tasks. They can also improve relationships and academic performance. They don't fix the underlying issues that create ADHD. Therefore, it's crucial to use them in conjunction with behavior therapy.
It's important to know that ADHD medication can cause side effects. They can make you drowsy or cranky, and could interfere with your sleep. These effects are usually minor, and they disappear when the medication has left your system. Your doctor will probably suggest you take only a small amount at first and then increase it gradually. They'll observe how the medication affects you or your child and also look for any signs of problems.
It could take some time to determine the best medication and dose for you or your child. It's best to open with your health care providers and communicate clearly. They may suggest an increase 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 if you or your child have any other mental or medical conditions.
Intermediate stimulants
Stimulants control ADHD symptoms by altering neurotransmitter activity in the brain. This can increase the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine, two chemical compounds that are essential for the functioning of the pre-frontal cortex area of the brain (think of it as your "secretary" in the executive function part of your brain). The use of stimulants is effective for the majority of ADHD children. Your doctor will work with you to figure out which type of medication and dosage is appropriate for you. most effective adhd medication for adults may have to try different kinds of medications before you find the one that is right for you or your child.
You can take immediate-release stimulants in liquid form as well as chewable tablets. They begin to work quickly and last for three or four hours. There are some people who experience problems after the medication has worn off, a phenomenon known as the "crash effect." It usually results in an abrupt decrease in energy and can result in intense hunger. Long-acting stimulants (like dexamfetamine and lisdexamfetamine) are also available. These are more complex and require prescriptions. They are injected into bloodstreams and are then converted from inactive active in red blood cells.
It takes time to find the right dosage, medication and schedule for you or your child. Your doctor will observe your reaction to the medication and look for any problems such as trouble sleeping. If you or your child is not responding well to stimulants, they will also discuss non-stimulant medication.
Do not stop or alter your ADHD medication without consulting your doctor. It is also essential to inform your doctor about any over-the counter supplements and medications you're taking, as some of them can interact with other ADHD medications.
Long-acting stimulants
For 70-80% adults and children with ADHD stimulant medication is effective in reducing hyperactivity, interrupting behavior as well as impulsivity, fidgeting and fidgeting. They can also help people focus, finish tasks, and maintain relationships. They may not reduce moodiness, or other nagging symptoms. They can also cause negative side effects, such as loss of appetite, insomnia and nervousness. They may also cause stomachaches, changes in heart rhythm, and high blood pressure.
These medications work in stages to treat ADHD symptoms throughout the day. Most begin to take effect within 30 to 45 minutes. They wear off within 3 to 6 hours. They can be used on their own or in conjunction with other forms of ADHD treatment, like behavioral therapy.
Some of these stimulants that act long-lastingly, including the atomoxetine (Strattera) and Guanfacine-ER (Intuniv), last through the night and into the next morning. Some doctors suggest using them to fill an afternoon trough, so that patients do not require an additional dose of medication during school or in the afternoon.
Long-acting stimulants don't increase dopamine levels to the same extent as intermediate- or short-acting drugs. However, they still do so significantly. They don't have the same effects on rebound as shorter-acting stimulants.
Due to the potential for negative side effects, long-acting stimulants are typically prescribed as a last-line treatment for older teens with ADHD. They are also used to treat some people with ADHD if other medications haven't worked.
While medication can aid in improving concentration and self-control, it's never the only solution for people who suffer from ADHD. When combined with a healthy sleeping routine, healthy eating, and other strategies for self-help it's usually possible to decrease or eliminate the need for ADHD medicine.