How Does ADHD Medication Work?
When a neuron sends an information to another, it makes use of neurotransmitters or chemicals. They need to travel through a tiny gap known as a synapse.
Certain ADHD medications make the transmission of these messages more efficient. They can assist neurons in the release of 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 gradually adjust the dosage to find the "sweet spot," the lowest dose that produces a clear improvement in symptoms, and has a few side effects.
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate, the first medication that doctors try to help ADHD children, is usually Methylphenidate. It works by increasing the amount of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brains of children which aids them in focusing and pay attention. It also reduces their impulsivity and hyperactivity. It is important to keep in mind that methylphenidate is a controlled drug and should only be taken under a doctor's supervision.
The most commonly used methylphenidate medicine is Ritalin. It's available as tablets with immediate release (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). Some versions of the medication contain aspartame (an artificial sweetener) which can be hazardous for people suffering from phenylketonuria, an inherited condition that causes severe intellectual disabilities. Tell your provider if you or your child have food allergies.
Researchers have found that methylphenidate may reduce abnormal activity, especially in the accumbens nucleus as well as a network of brain networks that are involved in the process of adaptive control. This may explain why methylphenidate is among the most effective drugs to treat ADHD.
Side effects of stimulants include headaches, nausea, sleepiness, anxiety, agitation or an agitation and tics. They aren't common, but they could be serious. You should consult your physician immediately if you experience any of these symptoms. It is also important to inform your doctor if your child suffers from allergies, the presence of heart disease or depression, bipolar disorder or other mental health problems such as glaucoma, a history of stroke or seizures or if you're taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) like isocarboxazid (Marplan), linezolid (Zyvox) and Methylene Blue, or Phenelzine (Nardil). It is essential to take methylphenidate exactly as prescribed by your physician.
Amphetamines
Amphetamines can help you concentrate on your thoughts and block out distractions by speeding up the transmission of messages between brain cells. They are the most frequently prescribed medications for treating ADHD in children and adults. They increase the levels of neurotransmitters, dopamine and norepinephrine, in your brain. adhd and depression medication can be found in short-acting (immediate release) and intermediate- or long-acting form. They can be taken either orally or via injection.
Some people have a hard dealing with the adverse effects of stimulant drugs including restlessness, difficulty sleeping or a rise in heart rate and blood pressure. Your doctor will 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.
The effects of stimulants are mediated by two essential neurotransmitters within the pre-frontal cortex, which is the brain part which regulates your emotions and control your behavior. These drugs are prescribed for a broad range of mental health disorders such as ADD/ADHD and disorders like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, narcolepsy and eating disorders.
Amphetamines and methylphenidates are the most common stimulant drugs. The FDA has approved dozens of brand-name stimulants to treat ADHD. They are available in various forms - from short-acting stimulants to long-acting stimulants. They can be taken orally or in a injection. Amphetamines can be abused by teens who use them to keep awake and focus for tests or by truck drivers and students that require extra energy for endurance sports. They can also cause psychological and physical problems if misused, particularly in higher doses.
Non-stimulant medicines 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 do, however they are less likely to cause the tics of people suffering from Tourette syndrome.
Short-acting stimulants
These medications are prescribed to treat children and teenagers with ADHD. These medications can be taken orally or applied to the skin. They are available as pills that can be chewed, swallowed, or swallowed and capsules that can be opened and sprinkled on food items, and liquid patches. They are usually available only with a doctor's prescription. The medications include methylphenidate (brand names Ritalin, Concerta, Focalin, Daytrana), and amphetamines (Adderall, Dexedrine, Vyvanse). Short-acting stimulants have a rapid effect and last from 3 and 6 hours.
These medications ease symptoms for 70-80% of adults and children with ADHD. They decrease the amount of fidgeting, interrupting and make it easier for you to complete your tasks. They also help improve academic performance and relationships. However, they aren't able to address the root causes of ADHD. So it's important to use them in conjunction with behavior therapy.
It's important to understand that ADHD medication can cause negative side effects. They can cause you to be drowsy or cranky, and they can affect your sleep. These effects are usually minor, and they disappear as soon as the medication has left your system. Your doctor may ask you to take a small dose at first and then gradually increase the dosage. They will monitor you or your child closely to determine whether there are any issues with the medication.
It can take some time to find the appropriate medication and dose for you or your child. It is best to be honest with your health care providers and communicate clearly. They may suggest changes in the frequency of medication that you or your child take or if a medication is required at any time. They'll also want to know whether you or your child suffers from any other medical or mental health conditions.
Intermediate stimulants
Stimulants are used to treat ADHD symptoms by altering the activity of important neurotransmitters in the brain. This boosts 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). The majority of kids who suffer from ADHD respond well to stimulant medication. Your doctor will assist you to determine the right dosage and medication for you. It is possible to test various kinds of medication before you discover the one that is suitable for you or your kids.
You can take stimulants that release immediately in liquid form as well as chewable tablets. These drugs work quickly and last up to four hours. The "crash effect" occurs when the medicine wears out. This is characterized by rapid drop in energy levels and 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 then change from inactive to active in red blood cells.
It takes time to determine the right dosage, medication, and schedule for your child or you. Your doctor will be monitoring your reaction to the medication, and look for any issues like trouble sleeping. If you or your child are not responding well to stimulants, they'll also discuss non-stimulant medications.
Never stop or alter your ADHD medication without consulting your physician. Inform your doctor if you use any prescription medications or supplements, since some may interact with ADHD medications.
Long-acting stimulants
For 70-80% adults and children with ADHD stimulant medications are effective in reducing hyperactivity, interrupting behavior, fidgeting and impulsivity. They can also help people concentrate, complete tasks and maintain relationships. However, they aren't able to reduce moodiness or other problematic symptoms. They can also cause adverse effects like sleepiness, loss of appetite and nervousness. They can also cause stomachaches, changes in heart rhythm and high blood pressure.
These medications work in phases, helping to treat ADHD symptoms throughout the day. The majority of these medications begin to work within 30 to 60 minutes and wear off after 3 to 6 hours. They can be used by themselves or 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 all night and the next day. Some doctors recommend taking these in the afternoon to prevent patients from requiring additional medication during school or afterschool.
Long-acting stimulants aren't able to increase dopamine levels to the same degree as intermediate- or short-acting drugs. However, they have a significant effect on dopamine levels. As a result, they don't cause the same kind of rebound effects that be experienced with shorter-acting substances.
Long-acting stimulants, due to the potential for adverse reactions are typically prescribed as a second treatment for adults with ADHD and teens who are older. However, they can also be used as a first-line treatment for those with ADHD who haven't been able to respond to other medications.
While medication can aid in improving concentration and self control however, it's not the only solution for those with ADHD. With the help of a good night's sleeping habits, healthy diets, and other self-help techniques, it is often possible to decrease, or even eliminate, the need for ADHD medication.