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How Does ADHD Medication Work?
When one neuron sends a message to another neuron, it makes use of neurotransmitters or chemicals. These chemicals must cross a tiny gap known as a synapse.
Some ADHD medications can increase the efficiency of these messages. They either aid neurons in releasing more neurotransmitters, or slow down the process of reuptake (called Reuptake inhibitors).
Doctors start people with ADHD with a small dose of medication and observe their reactions. They adjust the dosage gradually to find the "sweet spot," the lowest dose that produces a clear improvement in symptoms, and has a few side effects.
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate is the first kind of medication that doctors typically try to help kids with ADHD. It increases the amount of norepinephrine and dopamine in kids' brains which help them pay attention and focus. It also reduces their impulsivity and hyperactivity. It is important to remember that the methylphenidate drug is a controlled substance and should only be used under the supervision of a physician.
Ritalin is the most well-known methylphenidate drug. It is available in tablets that release immediately, chewable tablets, and capsules. Certain versions of this medication contain the artificial sweetener aspartame, which can be hazardous for those suffering from Phenylketonuria (an genetic condition that can cause severe intellectual disability). Inform your doctor if or your child have food allergies.
Researchers have discovered that methylphenidate decreases abnormal activity in various parts of the brain, including the nucleus of accumbens, as well as the brain's three networks that play a part in adaptive control. This may explain why methylphenidate is among the most effective medications to treat ADHD.
The adverse effects of stimulants can include sleepiness, nausea, headaches anxiety, agitation, agitation and tics. These are rare, but they can be serious. If they occur you should contact your doctor right away. Tell your doctor about any allergies, heart disease, depression, bipolar disorder and other mental health issues, glaucoma or seizures. Also, inform them if your child or you have a history. It is crucial to take your methylphenidate exactly in accordance with the prescription of 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 frequently prescribed medications to treat ADHD in children and adults. They increase the levels neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine in your brain. Amphetamines can be found in short-acting (immediate-release) and intermediate or long-acting versions. They can be taken orally and also via injection.
Some people have a difficult time with the side effects of stimulant drugs, such as restlessness, difficulty sleeping or a rise in blood pressure and heart rate. Your doctor will monitor the symptoms and alter the dosage to find the right one for you. Some patients may need to take a mix of medicines to achieve the desired effects.
Stimulant drugs work by affecting two essential neurotransmitters within the pre-frontal cortex. It is the part of your brain which regulates your emotions and regulate your behavior. These drugs are prescribed to treat a wide variety of mental health issues such as ADD/ADHD and ailments like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, narcolepsy, and eating disorders.
The most popular kinds of stimulant drugs include methylphenidates and amphetamines. The FDA has approved dozens of brand-name stimulants for treating ADHD. They are available in different forms ranging from stimulants that are short-acting to long-acting stimulants - and can be taken orally, or injected. Amphetamines can be abused by teenagers who take them to keep awake and study for tests, or by truck drivers and students that require more energy for endurance sports. Amphetamines may cause mental and physical issues when they are misused, especially at higher doses.
Non-stimulant medications can also be effective for 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 are built on the same chemical that stimulants are, but they are less likely to trigger the symptoms of tics in those with Tourette syndrome.
Short-acting stimulants
These medications are used to treat teens and children with ADHD. They can be consumed by mouth or applied to the skin. They are available in liquids and patches, as well as pills that can either be chewed or swallowed. They are typically only available on prescription by a physician. These include methylphenidate, (brand names Ritalin (Concerta, Focalin (Daytrana) and amphetamines (Adderall (Dexedrine, Vyvanse)). Short-acting stimulants are fast-acting and last for 3 to 6 hours.
These drugs ease symptoms for 70% to 80% of adults and kids with ADHD. They help reduce fidgeting and interruptions, and make it easier to complete tasks. They can also improve academic performance and 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 is also important to know that ADHD medications can cause side effects. They can make you drowsy or cranky, and could interfere with your sleep. These effects are usually minimal and disappear once the medication is gone from your system. Your doctor might suggest you take an initial dose of a small amount and then gradually increase the dosage. They will watch you or your child to determine whether there are any issues with the medication.
Finding the appropriate medication for your child or yourself could take some time. It is best to communicate openly with your health professional. They might suggest changes to the frequency at which you or your child take the medication or more info even when it's required at all. They'll also be looking to determine whether you or your child has any other medical or mental health conditions.
Intermediate stimulants
The stimulants help to manage ADHD symptoms by altering the activity of important neurotransmitters in the brain. This can increase the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine, two chemical substances that are crucial for the pre-frontal cortical area of the brain. (Think of it as "your secretary" in the executive part of your mind). Stimulant medication is effective for the majority of ADHD children. Your doctor will assist you to determine the best dosage and medication for your child. You may have to try different types of medication before settling on the one that is right for you or your child.
It is possible to take stimulants with immediate release in liquid form or chewable tablets. These medications begin working quickly and last for three to four hours. The "crash effect" occurs when the medicine is exhausted. This is evident by a sudden decrease in energy levels and extreme hunger. There are also stimulants that act long-lastingly like dexamfetamine or lisdexamfetamine. They are more complicated and require prescription. They are injected into the bloodstream and then change from inactive to active in red blood cells.
It takes time to find the right dosage, medication and schedule for you or your child. Your doctor will be monitoring your response to the medication and look for any problems such as trouble sleeping. They will also inform you about non-stimulant medication in the event that you or your child aren't responding well to the stimulants.
You should never stop or change your ADHD medication without speaking to your doctor first. It's also important to inform your doctor about any over-the counter supplements or medications you're taking, as certain of them may interfere with certain ADHD medications.
Long-acting stimulants
Stimulant medications work for 70-80 percent of adults and children with ADHD and help cut down on hyperactivity, interruptions or fidgeting and impulsivity. They also aid people to concentrate, complete tasks, and maintain relationships. However, they may not alleviate moodiness or other irritable symptoms. They can also cause adverse effects like the loss of appetite, insomnia and jitteriness. They can also cause stomachaches, heart rhythm changes, and high blood pressure.
These drugs work in phases to treat ADHD symptoms throughout the day. The majority of them begin to show effects within 30 to 45 minutes. They disappear 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 such as atomoxetine (Strattera) and Guanfacine-ER (Intuniv), last through the night and into the next morning. Some doctors recommend taking them in the afternoon to prevent patients from having to take additional medication at school or in the afternoon.
Long-acting stimulants do not increase dopamine levels as much as short- and intermediate-acting drugs, yet they boost them significantly. They don't have the same rebound effects as stimulants with shorter durations.
Due to the possibility of negative side effects, long-acting stimulants are typically prescribed as a second line treatment for adults and teens suffering from ADHD. They can also be used to treat certain patients with ADHD if other medications haven't helped.
While medication can aid in improving concentration and self-control, it's never the only solution for people with ADHD. Combined with a healthy sleeping routine and healthy eating habits, along with other self-help strategies it's usually possible to eliminate or reduce the need for ADHD medication.