How Does ADHD Medication Work?
When a neuron transmits a signal to another, it uses chemicals known as neurotransmitters. They need to cross a tiny gap called a synapse.
Some ADHD medications increase the efficiency of these messages. They either help neurons release neurotransmitters more or slow the reuptake (called Reuptake inhibitors).
Doctors put patients suffering from inattentive adhd medication adults with a low dose of medication, and then monitor their responses. They gradually adjust the dosage to find the "sweet spot," the lowest dose that shows a noticeable improvement in symptoms and has few adverse effects.
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate is the first drug that doctors try to help ADHD kids, is often Methylphenidate. It helps by increasing the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brains of children which help them focus and pay attention. It also decreases the impulsivity and hyperactivity of children. It is important to keep in mind that methylphenidate is a controlled drug and should only be taken under the supervision of a physician.
The most well-known methylphenidate drug is Ritalin. It is available in immediate-release tablets as well as chewable tablets and capsules. Some versions of this medication contain artificial sweeteners such as aspartame, which can be dangerous for people with phenylketonuria (an inherited condition that causes severe intellectual disability). Inform your doctor if you or your child suffer from food allergies.
Researchers have found that methylphenidate decreases abnormal activity in certain areas of the brain, including the nucleus of accumbens, as well as a network of three brain networks that play a part in adaptive control. This may explain why methylphenidate is one of the most popular adhd medication effective drugs to treat ADHD.
The side effects of stimulants are headaches, nausea, insomnia, anxiety, agitation or the tics and agitation. They are not common but they could be serious. If you experience any of them, you should call your doctor right away. Inform your doctor about any heart disease, allergies, bipolar disorders, depression or other mental health issues such as glaucoma, seizures or glaucoma. Also, tell them if your child or you have a history. It is essential to take your methylphenidate exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
Amphetamines
Amphetamines boost the speed of communication between brain cells. They can help you concentrate your thoughts and ignore distractions. They are the most commonly used treatments for ADHD in children and adults. They boost the levels of neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine in your brain. Amphetamines are available in short-acting (immediate release) and intermediate- or long-acting forms. They are available orally or via injection.
Some people have a hard dealing with the adverse effects of stimulant medication including insomnia, restlessness, or an increase in heart rate and blood pressure. Your doctor will observe your symptoms and adjust your dosage to find the best one for you. Some patients may need to take a mix of medicines to achieve the desired effect.
Drugs that stimulate the brain affect two key neurotransmitters in the prefrontal cortex. This is the part of the brain that regulates emotions and governs your behavior. These medications are prescribed for a broad range of mental health disorders, including ADD/ADHD and other disorders like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, narcolepsy and eating disorders.
Amphetamines and methylphenidates are the most commonly used stimulant drugs. The FDA has approved dozens of brand-name stimulants to treat ADHD. They are available in a variety of forms - from stimulants that are short-acting to long-acting stimulants. They can be taken orally, or injected. Amphetamines are often abused by teenagers who use them to keep awake and concentrate for tests or by truck drivers and students that require an extra boost of energy to compete in endurance sports. They can also cause psychological and physical problems if misused, particularly in higher doses.
Non-stimulant drugs can also be effective for treating mild adhd medication, like this,. 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 function with the same chemicals as stimulants, but they are less likely to cause the tics worse and cause problems for those suffering from Tourette's syndrome.
Short-acting stimulants
These drugs 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, as well as pills that can be chewed or swallowed. They are typically only available with a doctor's prescription. These medications include methylphenidate (brand names Ritalin, Concerta, Focalin, Daytrana), and amphetamines (Adderall, Dexedrine, Vyvanse). Short-acting stimulants work fast and last from 3 to 6 hours.
These medications alleviate symptoms in 70-80% of adults and children with ADHD. They can reduce the need to fidget and interrupting, making it easier to complete your tasks. They also help improve academic performance and relationships. However, they aren't able to address the root issues that cause ADHD. It's crucial to combine them with behavior therapy.
It is important to be aware that ADHD medications can cause side effects. They can make you drowsy or cranky, and may interfere with your sleep. But these effects are usually minimal and will disappear once the medicine leaves your body. Your doctor might suggest you take only a small amount at first and then increase it gradually. They'll monitor how the medication affects your child or you, and look for any problems.
It could take some time to determine the best dosage and medication for your child or yourself. It is important to communicate openly with your health care team. They might suggest a change in the frequency of medications that you or your child takes or if any medication is required at all. They'll also want to know whether your child or you has any other medical or mental health issues.
Intermediate stimulants
Stimulants control ADHD symptoms by altering the neurotransmitter activity of the brain. This boosts the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine, two substances that are important for the pre-frontal cortical region of the brain. (Think of it as "your secretary" in the executive function part of your brain). Most kids who suffer from ADHD respond well to stimulant medications. Your doctor will work with you to figure out what kind of medication and dose is appropriate for you. You may need to test different types of medication before settling on the one that works best for you or your child.
You can take these stimulants in tablet or liquid form. These drugs start working quickly and last for three or four hours. The "crash effect" is a sign that the medicine wears out. This is evident by rapid reduction in energy levels as well as extreme hunger. There are also long-acting stimulants like dexamfetamine and Lisdexamfetamine. These are more complex and require prescriptions. They are injected in the bloodstream, and they are activated in the red blood cells.
It takes time to determine the right dosage, medication and schedule for your child or you. Your doctor will monitor how you react to the medication and watch for problems like trouble sleeping. They will also inform you about non-stimulant medications if you or your child are not responding well to stimulants.
Do not stop or alter your ADHD medication without first consulting with your doctor. Inform your doctor if you use any prescription medications or supplements, since some may interact with ADHD medications.
Long-acting stimulants
Stimulant medication is effective for 70-80 percent of children and adults with ADHD aiding in cutting down on hyperactivity, interrupting or fidgeting and impulsivity. They can also increase focus and help people finish tasks and maintain relationships. They can't help with moodiness, or other nagging symptoms. And they may cause negative effects, such as the loss of appetite, insomnia stomachaches, jitteriness, changes in heart rhythm, and high blood pressure.
These medications work in stages to treat adhd medication names list symptoms throughout the day. The majority of these medications start 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, like behavioral therapy.
Some of these long-acting stimulants, such as atomoxetine-ER (Intuniv) and Guanfacine (Strattera) can be used all night long and last until the next day. Some doctors suggest taking these in the afternoon to avoid patients from having to take additional medication during school or in the afternoon.
Long-acting stimulants don't boost dopamine levels as dramatically as short- and intermediate-acting drugs, but they do boost them significantly. They don't have the same effects on rebound as stimulants with shorter durations.
Long-acting stimulants, due to the potential for adverse reactions are typically prescribed as a last resort for adults with ADHD and teens who are older. They can also be employed to treat a few people with ADHD if other medications haven't worked.
While medication can aid in improving concentration and self-control however, it's not the only option for those with ADHD. With the help of good sleeping habits, healthy diets, and other self-help techniques it's possible to decrease, or even eliminate, the need for ADHD medication.