How Does ADHD Medication Work?
When one neuron sends an information to another, it uses chemicals called neurotransmitters. These chemicals must pass through the gap, which is known as a synapse.
Some ADHD medications help in the transmission of these messages more efficient. They can either aid in the release of neurotransmitters faster or slow the reuptake (called reuptake inhibitors).
Doctors start people with ADHD with a small dose of medication and then observe their responses. They gradually adjust the dosage to find the "sweet spot," the lowest dose that shows a noticeable improvement in symptoms, and has a few adverse side effects.
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate is the primary type of medication doctors often try to help kids with ADHD. It is a way to increase the amount of norepinephrine and dopamine in children's brains which help them focus and pay attention. It also reduces their hyperactivity and impulsivity. Be aware that methylphenidate should only be used under the supervision of a physician since it is a controlled drug.
The most well-known methylphenidate drug is Ritalin. It is available in tablets that release immediately (Ritalin, Concerta, or Quillichew ER) chewable tablets with a long-acting mechanism (Cotempla XR-ODT or Adhansia XR) or long-acting capsules (Adhansia PM or Jornay PM). Some versions of the medication contain aspartame (an artificial sweetener) which can be dangerous for those with the genetic condition phenylketonuria which causes severe intellectual impairment. Make sure you inform 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 an important role in adaptive control. This is the reason why methylphenidate was found to be among the most effective drugs for treating ADHD.
Side effects of stimulants include sleepiness, nausea, headaches, anxiety, agitation or the tics and agitation. These aren't common but they could be serious. You should contact your doctor immediately if you notice any of these symptoms. You should also tell your doctor if you or your child suffers from allergies, the presence of heart disease, depression, bipolar disorder or other mental health conditions, glaucoma, a history of seizures or stroke or if you are taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) like isocarboxazid (Marplan), linezolid (Zyvox) and Methylene Blue, or Phenelzine (Nardil). It is important to take methylphenidate according to the dosage prescribed by your physician.
Amphetamines
Amphetamines speed up messages between brain cells and help you focus your thoughts and ignore distractions. They are among the most popular medications used to treat ADHD in adults and children. They boost the levels of neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine in your brain. Amphetamines come in short-acting (immediate release) and intermediate- or long-acting versions. They are available orally or through injection.
Certain people are affected by the side effects of stimulant medications, like restlessness, trouble sleeping, or increased heart rate and high blood pressure. Your doctor will observe your symptoms and adjust your dosage to find the best one for you. Some people will require multiple prescriptions to achieve the desired outcome.
Drugs that stimulate the brain affect two key neurotransmitters in the prefrontal cortex. This is the region of the brain that regulates emotions and controls your behavior. These medications are prescribed to treat a variety of mental health problems, including ADD/ADHD, depression anxiety, bipolar disorder and depression.
Amphetamines as well as methylphenidates are the most common stimulant drugs. The FDA has approved dozens brand-name stimulants for treating ADHD. They are available in various forms - from short-acting stimulants to long-acting stimulants - and can be consumed orally or injectable. Students, truck drivers and teens who require more energy to do endurance sports can take amphetamines. They can also cause psychological and physical problems if misused, especially with higher doses.
Non-stimulant medicines are also 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 using the same chemical as stimulants, but are less likely to make tics worse which is a concern for people with Tourette's syndrome.
Short-acting stimulants
These drugs are used to treat teenagers and children with ADHD. They can be taken by mouth or applied on the skin. They are available in patches and liquids and pills that can either be swallowed or chewed. They are generally only available with a prescription from a doctor. They include methylphenidate (brand names Ritalin (Concerta, Focalin (Daytrana) and amphetamines (Adderall (Dexedrine, Vyvanse)). Short-acting stimulants are fast-acting and last for about 3 to 6 hours.
These medications alleviate symptoms in 70-80 percent of children and adults with ADHD. They can reduce fidgeting and interrupting, and make it easier to finish tasks. They also help improve relationships and academic performance. They don't fix the underlying issues that cause ADHD. It is crucial to integrate them with behavioral therapy.
It is important to be aware that ADHD medications can have negative side effects. adhd medication side effects can make you drowsy or cranky, and they could interfere with your sleep. These effects are usually minimal, and they disappear as soon as the medication is gone from your system. Your doctor may ask you to start with a small dosage and gradually increase it. They'll watch to see how the medication affects your child or you and also look for any signs of problems.
Finding the best medication for you or your children may take some time. adhd medications for adults is important to communicate openly with your health care provider. They may suggest changes in how often you or your child takes the medication, or even when it's required at all. They may also be looking to determine if you or your child have any other mental or medical issues.
Intermediate stimulants
Stimulants help to manage ADHD symptoms by altering neurotransmitter activity in the brain. This boosts the levels of norepinephrine as well as dopamine, two substances that are important for the pre-frontal cortical area of the brain. (Think of it as "your secretary" in the executive part of your mind). The use of stimulants is efficient for the majority of ADHD children. Your doctor will assist you to determine the right dosage and medication for your child. You may need to test different kinds of medications before settling on the one that is right for you or your child.
You can take immediate-release stimulants in liquid form and 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." This typically results in a sharp reduction in energy levels and can result in intense hunger. Long-acting stimulants (like dexamfetamine and Lisdexamfetamine) are also available. These are a little more complex and require prescription. They are injected into bloodstreams and change from inactive to active in red blood cells.
Finding the right medication, dosage and schedule for your child or yourself may take time. Your doctor will monitor your response to the medication, and will look for any signs of trouble like trouble sleeping. They will also advise you about non-stimulant medications for children or parents who are not responding well to the stimulants.
Do not stop or alter your ADHD medication without consulting with your doctor. Tell your doctor if you use any prescription medications or supplements, as they may interact with ADHD medications.
Long-acting stimulants
Stimulant medications work for 70-80% of adults and children with ADHD, helping to cut down on hyperactivity, interrupting fidgeting, impulsivity, and fidgeting. They can also help people concentrate, complete tasks and maintain relationships. However, they might not reduce moodiness or other problematic symptoms. They can also cause adverse effects like sleepiness, loss of appetite and anxiety. They may also cause stomachaches, changes in heart rhythm and high blood pressure.
These drugs work in phases to treat ADHD symptoms all day long. The majority begin to work within 30 to 45 minutes, and fade within 3 to 6 hours. They are often used in conjunction with other forms of ADHD treatment, such as behavioral therapy.
Some of these long-acting stimulants such as the atomoxetine (Strattera) and Guanfacine-ER (Intuniv), last through the night and into the next morning. Some doctors recommend taking them in the afternoon to avoid patients from needing additional medication in school or in the afternoon.
Long-acting stimulants do not increase dopamine levels in the same way as short- or intermediate-acting drugs. However, they still increase dopamine levels significantly. They don't have the same effects on rebound as stimulants that have shorter-acting effects.
Long-acting stimulants, due to the potential side effects they are typically prescribed as a second treatment for adults suffering from ADHD and teens who are older. However, they can also be used as a first-line treatment for some people with ADHD who haven't been able to respond to other medications.
While medication can improve concentration and self-control, it's never the only solution for people who suffer from ADHD. In conjunction with a healthy sleeping routine and healthy eating habits, as well as other strategies for self-help it's usually possible to eliminate or reduce the need for ADHD medication.