How Does ADHD Medication Work?
When one neuron sends a message to another neuron, it uses chemicals called neurotransmitters. They need to travel through a tiny gap known as a synapse.
Certain ADHD medications can make the passing along of these messages more efficient. They may help neurons release neurotransmitters more or slow the process of reuptake (called Reuptake inhibitors).
Doctors start people with ADHD with a small dose of medication, and then monitor their responses. They alter the dosage as they go along to discover an "sweet spot" -the lowest dose that shows clear improvement in symptoms with very few side effects.
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate is the primary type of medication doctors frequently attempt to offer to children suffering from ADHD. It is a way to increase the amount of dopamine and norepinephrine that is present in children's brains, which helps them focus and pay attention. It also decreases their hyperactivity and impulsivity. It is important to remember that the methylphenidate drug is a controlled substance and should only be taken under the supervision of a physician.
The most well-known methylphenidate drug is Ritalin. It's available as tablets with immediate release (Ritalin, Concerta, or Quillichew ER), long-acting chewable tablets (Cotempla XR-ODT or Adhansia XR) or long-acting capsules (Adhansia PM or Jornay PM). Some versions of this medication contain the artificial sweetener aspartame, which can be hazardous for those suffering from Phenylketonuria (an inheritable condition that causes severe intellectual disability). Be sure to inform your provider about any food allergies that you or your child suffers from.
Researchers have discovered that methylphenidate can reduce aberrant activity, particularly in the nucleus of accumbens as well as a set of brain networks that are involved in adaptive control. This may explain why methylphenidate has been found to be one of the most effective medications for treating ADHD.
The adverse effects of stimulants can include headaches, nausea, insomnia, anxiety, agitation or an agitation and tics. These aren't common but they could be serious. It is important to consult your doctor immediately if you experience any of these symptoms. Inform your doctor about any allergies, heart disease, depression, bipolar disorder, other mental health conditions, glaucoma or seizures. Also, inform them whether your child or you have a history. It is important to take methylphenidate as recommended by your doctor.
Amphetamines
Amphetamines speed up messages between brain cells and aid in focusing your mind and ignore distractions. They are among 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 are available in both short-acting (immediate-release) and intermediate or long-acting varieties. They can be ingested and also via injection.
Some people are afflicted by the side effects of stimulant medications, like restlessness, difficulty sleeping, or an increased heart rate and elevated blood pressure. Your doctor will be able to monitor the symptoms and alter the dosage to find the best one for you. Some people will require multiple medications to get the desired results.
Stimulant drugs affect two important neurotransmitters located in the prefrontal cortex. This is the region of the brain that regulates emotions and controls your behavior. These drugs are prescribed for a wide range of mental health disorders, including ADD/ADHD and other conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, narcolepsy and eating disorders.
The most common types 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 forms - from short-acting stimulants to longer-acting stimulants - and can be consumed orally or injectable. Truck drivers, students and teens who require more energy to compete in endurance sports can abuse amphetamines. They can also trigger physical and psychological problems if used in excess, particularly with higher doses.
Non-stimulant medications can also be effective for treating ADHD. 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 trigger tics in people with Tourette syndrome.
Short-acting stimulants
These medicines are used to treat teenagers and children with ADHD. These medications can be taken orally or applied to the skin. They are available in liquids and patches and pills that can 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 about 3 to 6 hours.
These medications ease symptoms in 70-80 percent of children and adults with ADHD. They reduce the tendency to fidget and interruptions, and make it easier to finish tasks. They also help enhance academic performance and improve relationships. They can't address the root issues that are the cause of ADHD. It is crucial to integrate the two therapies with behavior therapy.
It's also important to understand that ADHD medications can have adverse effects. You might feel sleepy or cranky, or even sleepy. These effects are usually mild, and they disappear when the medication is gone from your system. Your doctor might advise you to start with a smaller dose and increase it gradually. They'll observe how the medication affects you or your child and also look for any signs of problems.
add adhd medication may take time to find the appropriate dosage and medication for you or your child. It's best to be open with your health care team and communicate clearly. They might suggest changes to the frequency at which you or your child takes the medication, or if it's needed at all. They may also want to know whether you or your child have any other medical or mental issues.
Intermediate stimulants
Stimulants control ADHD symptoms by altering the activity of neurotransmitters in the brain. This helps increase the levels of dopamine as well as 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 functioning area of your brain). Stimulant medication is efficient 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. You may have to try various types of medications before you can find the one that is right for you or your children.
You can take stimulants that release immediately in liquid form or chewable tablets. These medications begin working quickly and last for three or four hours. Some people experience a problem when the medication wears off, a phenomenon known as the "crash effect." This typically results in an immediate drop in energy, and may cause extreme hunger. There are also long-acting stimulants, such as dexamfetamine or Lisdexamfetamine. These are a little more complicated and require prescription. They are injected into bloodstreams and are then converted from inactive active in red blood cells.
It takes time to determine the correct dosage, medication and schedule for your child or yourself. Your doctor will monitor how you react to the medication and watch for problems like sleep issues. They will also advise you about non-stimulant medications for children or parents who are not responding well to stimulants.
Never stop or alter your ADHD medication without first consulting your physician. Inform your doctor if you take any prescription drugs or supplements, as they can interact with ADHD medications.
Long-acting stimulants
For 70-80% adults and children with ADHD stimulant medications work in reducing hyperactivity, interrupting behavior as well as impulsivity, fidgeting and fidgeting. They also help improve focus and help people finish tasks and maintain relationships. However, they aren't able to reduce moodiness or other problematic symptoms. They can also trigger adverse effects like sleepiness, loss of appetite and anxiety. They may also cause stomachaches, heart rhythm changes and high blood pressure.
These drugs work in phases to treat ADHD symptoms throughout the day. Most of these medications begin to work within 30 to 60 minutes, and disappear after 3 to 6 hours. They can be used alone or in conjunction with other types of ADHD treatment, such as behavioral therapy.
Some of these long-acting stimulants, like atomoxetine-ER (Intuniv) and guanfacine (Strattera), can last for a long time and even the next day. Some doctors recommend taking these in the afternoon, to avoid patients from requiring additional medication in school or in the afternoon.
Long-acting stimulants do not increase dopamine levels to the same extent as intermediate or short-acting drugs. However, they still have a significant effect on dopamine levels. They don't have the same rebound effects as stimulants with shorter durations.
Because of the potential for negative side effects Due to the possibility of side effects, long-acting stimulants are usually prescribed as a last-line treatment for adults and teens with ADHD. They are also used to treat certain people with ADHD in cases where other medications haven't been effective.
While medication can aid in improving concentration and self-control, it's not the sole solution for those with ADHD. With the help of good eating habits, regular sleep and other self-help strategies it's possible to decrease or even eliminate the requirement for ADHD medication.