How Does ADHD Medication Work?
When a neuron transmits a signal to another, it uses chemicals known as neurotransmitters. These chemicals must cross the gap, which is known as a synapse.
Certain ADHD medications increase the efficiency of these messages. They may help neurons release neurotransmitters more or slow the process of reuptake (called Reuptake inhibitors).
Doctors begin ADHD patients on a low dosage and monitor their reaction. They alter the dosage over time to determine the "sweet place" -- the lowest level that provides an immediate improvement in symptoms and very few side effects.
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate is the first type of medication doctors frequently attempt to offer to children suffering from ADHD. It increases the amount of norepinephrine as well as dopamine in kids' brains which help them pay attention and stay focused. It also reduces their impulsivity and hyperactivity. It is important to remember that methylphenidate must only be taken with a doctor’s supervision as it is a controlled drug.
Ritalin is the most commonly used methylphenidate drug. It's available in immediate-release tablets (Ritalin, Concerta, or Quillichew ER) chewable tablets that are long-acting (Cotempla XR-ODT or Adhansia XR) or long-acting capsules (Adhansia PM or Jornay PM). Certain versions of this medication contain the artificial sweetener aspartame, which can be dangerous for people with Phenylketonuria (an genetic condition that can cause severe intellectual disabilities). Inform your doctor if you or your child have food allergies.
Researchers have found that methylphenidate can reduce aberrant activity, particularly in the nucleus of accumbens as well as a set of brain networks involved in the process of adaptive control. This could explain why methylphenidate is among the most effective medications to treat ADHD.
The side effects of stimulants are headaches, nausea, insomnia, anxiety, agitation or the tics and agitation. These are not common, but they can be serious. You should consult your physician immediately if you experience any of these symptoms. Tell your doctor about any allergies, heart diseases depression, bipolar disorders or other mental health issues like glaucoma, seizures, or glaucoma. Also, tell them whether your child or you have a history. It is essential to take your methylphenidate exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
Amphetamines
Amphetamines can help you focus your thoughts and block out distractions by speeding up the communication between brain cells. They are the most commonly used medications used to treat ADHD in adults and children. They boost the levels of neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine in your brain. Amphetamines are available in short-acting (immediate release) and intermediate- or long-acting form. They can be taken orally as well as via injection.
Some people have a difficult time with the side effects of stimulant medications, such as insomnia, restlessness, or an increase in heart rate and blood pressure. Your doctor will be able to monitor your symptoms and adjust your dosage to find the best one for you. Some people will require multiple prescriptions to get the desired results.
Stimulant drugs work by affecting two important neurotransmitters in the pre-frontal cortex. It is the part of your brain that regulates emotions and control your behavior. They are prescribed for a wide range of mental health conditions that include ADD/ADHD, as well as other conditions such as bipolar disorder, narcolepsy, and eating disorders.
The most popular kinds of stimulant drugs are amphetamines and methylphenidates. The FDA has approved dozens brand-name stimulants to treat ADHD. They are available in a variety of forms, ranging from short-acting to long-acting, and are administered orally or by injection. Truck drivers, students and teenagers who require more energy to compete in endurance sports can abuse amphetamines. They can also trigger physical and mental problems when misused, especially with higher doses.
ADHD can be treated with non-stimulant medication. These 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 built on the same chemical that stimulants are, but they are less likely to cause the symptoms of tics in those with Tourette syndrome.
Short-acting stimulants
These medications are used to treat children and teens with ADHD. They can be taken by mouth or applied to the skin. They come in pills that can be chewed, swallowed, or swallowed or chewed, capsules that can be opened and sprinkled on food items, and liquid patches. They are usually available only with a prescription from a doctor. These include methylphenidate (brand names Ritalin (Concerta, Focalin (Daytrana), andamphetamines, (Adderall (Dexedrine, Vyvanse)). Short-acting stimulants have a rapid effect and last for 3 and 6 hours.
These drugs ease symptoms for 70 percent to 80% of adults and kids with ADHD. They can reduce fidgeting and interrupting, and make it easier to complete tasks. They also help improve academic performance and interpersonal relationships. But they don't solve the underlying problems that cause ADHD. It's crucial to combine them with behavioral therapy.
It's also important to recognize that ADHD medicines have side effects. You might feel sleepy, cranky, or sleepless. But these effects are usually minor and go away as the medication is gone from your body. Your doctor may suggest you take only a small amount at first and then gradually increase it. They will be watching you or your child closely to determine if there are any problems with the medication.
medication adhd adults may take time to find the appropriate medication and dose for you or your child. It's best to be open with your health care team and communicate clearly. They may suggest a change in the frequency of medication that you or your child is taking or if any medication is needed at all. They may also want to know whether you or your child have any other medical or mental conditions.
Intermediate stimulants
The stimulants help to manage ADHD symptoms by altering the activity of important neurotransmitters in the brain. This increases the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine, two chemicals important for the pre-frontal cortical region of the brain. (Think of it as "your secretary" in the executive part of your brain). Stimulant medication is efficient for the majority of ADHD children. Your doctor will collaborate with you to figure out which type of medication and dose is right for you. You may have to try various kinds of medication before you can find the one that is suitable for you or your kids.
You can take immediate-release stimulants in liquid form as well as chewable tablets. They perform quickly and last for three to four hours. Some people have a problem after the medication has worn off, a phenomenon known as the "crash effect." This typically results in a sharp decrease in energy and can cause intense hunger. Long-acting stimulants (like dexamfetamine and Lisdexamfetamine) are also available. These are more complex and require prescriptions. They are injected in the bloodstream, and they become active in the red blood cell.
It takes time to find the right dosage, medication, and schedule for your child or you. Your doctor will observe your response to the medication, and look for any problems such as sleep issues. They will also inform you about non-stimulant medications for children or parents who aren't responding well to the stimulants.
Do not stop or alter your ADHD medications without first consulting your doctor. Tell your doctor if you use any prescription medications or supplements, as some may interact with ADHD medications.
Long-acting stimulants
For 70-80% adults and children with ADHD stimulant medications work in decreasing hyperactivity, interrupting behavior, fidgeting and impulsivity. They can also increase focus and help people finish their tasks and maintain relationships. They might not help reduce moodiness or other troublesome symptoms. They can also cause side effects such as loss of appetite, insomnia and jitteriness. They can also trigger stomachaches, heart rhythm changes, and high blood pressure.
These drugs work in phases to treat ADHD symptoms throughout the day. The majority of these medications begin to work in 30 to 60 minutes, and wear off after 3 to 6 hours. They can be utilized in conjunction with other forms of ADHD treatment such as behavioral therapy.
Some of these stimulants with long-acting effects such as Atomoxetine (Strattera) and guanfacine-ER (Intuniv) are able to last through the night and into the morning. Some doctors recommend using them to fill an afternoon trough, so patients don't need an additional dose at school or after school.
Long-acting stimulants don't increase dopamine levels as much as short- or intermediate-acting drugs, yet they boost their levels significantly. As a result, they don't trigger the same kind of rebound effects as occur with shorter-acting stimulants.
Due to the possibility of adverse effects Due to the possibility of side effects, long-acting stimulants are usually prescribed as a second line treatment for adults and older teens with ADHD. However, they can be used as a first-line treatment for some people with ADHD who haven't responded to other medications.
Although medication can aid in improving concentration and self control, it is not the only solution for those with ADHD. With the help of good sleeping habits, healthy diets and other self-help methods it's possible to reduce or even eliminate the necessity for ADHD medication.