How Does ADHD Medication Work?
When one neuron sends an information to another, it makes use of neurotransmitters or chemicals. These need to cross a tiny gap called a synapse.
Some ADHD medications make the passing along of these messages more effective. They either aid neurons in releasing more neurotransmitters or slow the process of reuptake (called Reuptake inhibitors).
Doctors begin ADHD patients with a lower dose and monitor their reaction. They gradually increase the dosage to find the "sweet spot," the lowest dose that shows a noticeable improvement in symptoms and produces fewer side effects.
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate is the primary kind of medication that doctors typically attempt to assist children with ADHD. It helps by increasing the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine that is present in kids' brains, which helps them focus and pay attention. It also reduces their hyperactivity and impulsivity. It is important to remember that methylphenidate must only be used under an appointment with a doctor since it is a controlled substance.
Ritalin is the most common methylphenidate drug. It is available in immediate-release tablets or chewable tablets as well as capsules. Some versions of the medication contain aspartame (an artificial sweetener) which can be dangerous for those with Phenylketonuria, a genetic condition causing severe intellectual disability. Make sure you inform your provider about any food allergies you or your child suffers from.
Researchers have discovered that methylphenidate reduces aberrant activity, specifically in the nucleus of accumbens as well as a set 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.
Stimulants can cause side effects that include the loss of appetite, sleepiness, stomach upset, headache, anxiety or disturbances and the tics. They are not 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 is suffering from allergies, an underlying heart condition or depression, bipolar disorder or any other mental health issues, glaucoma, a history of seizures or stroke or if you're taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) such as isocarboxazid (Marplan) or linezolid (Zyvox) and methylene blue, or phenelzine (Nardil). medications for adhd in adults is important to take methylphenidate exactly as recommended by your doctor.
Amphetamines
Amphetamines can help you concentrate on your thoughts and block out distractions by speeding up the messages between brain cells. They are the most commonly used drugs used to treat ADHD in children and adults. They boost the levels of neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine in your brain. Amphetamines are available both in short-acting (immediate-release) and intermediate or long-acting varieties. They can be taken orally as well as via injection.
Some people have a hard to deal with the negative side effects of stimulant drugs including restlessness, difficulty sleeping or an increase in blood pressure and heart rate. Your doctor will observe the symptoms and alter the dosage to find the best one for you. Some people may have to take a mix of drugs to achieve the desired effects.
Stimulant drugs work by affecting two important neurotransmitters in the pre-frontal cortex. It is the part of your brain that regulates emotions and regulate your behavior. These drugs are prescribed for a wide range of mental health disorders, including ADD/ADHD and other ailments like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, narcolepsy, and eating disorders.
The most popular types of stimulant drugs are amphetamines and methylphenidates. The FDA has approved dozens brand-name stimulants for treating ADHD. They are available in a variety of forms, from short-acting to long-acting and are administered orally or by injection. Amphetamines can be abused by teenagers who take them to stay awake and concentrate for tests or by truck drivers and students who need more energy for endurance sports. They can also cause physical and mental problems when used in excess, particularly with higher doses.
Non-stimulant drugs can also be effective in 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 work using the same chemical as stimulants, but they are less likely to make more tics, which is a problem for those with Tourette's Syndrome.
Short-acting stimulants
These medicines are used to treat children and teenagers with ADHD. They can be taken by mouth or applied to the skin. They are available in patches and liquids as well as pills that can either be swallowed or chewed. They are generally 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 from 3 to 6 hours.
These drugs ease symptoms for 70 percent to 80% of children and adults suffering from ADHD. They reduce the tendency to fidget and interruptions, as well as making it easier to finish tasks. They can also improve relationships and academic performance. However, they can't address the root causes of ADHD. It's important to combine the two therapies with behavior therapy.
It's important to know that ADHD medications can have negative side effects. They can make you sleepy or cranky, and may interfere with your sleep. However, these effects are usually small and disappear as the medication is gone from your body. Your doctor will probably recommend taking a small dose at first and then increase it gradually. They'll watch to see how the medication affects you or your child and check for any issues.
Finding the right medication for your child or yourself might take some time. It is recommended to speak openly with your health care team. They may suggest a change in the frequency of medication that you or your child is taking or if any medication is required at any time. They will also want to know whether you or your child suffer from any other medical or mental issues.
Intermediate stimulants
Stimulants are used to treat ADHD symptoms by altering the activity of important neurotransmitters in the brain. This can increase the levels of norepinephrine as well as dopamine, two chemicals important for the pre-frontal cortex area of the brain. (Think of it as "your secretary" in the executive part of your mind). Most kids with ADHD respond well to stimulant medication. Your doctor can help you determine the best dosage and medication for you. You may need to test different kinds of medications before settling on the one that works best for you or your child.
You can take immediate-release stimulants in liquid form as well as chewable tablets. These medications are quick-acting and last for up to four hours. The "crash effect" can occur when the medicine wears out. It is characterized by an abrupt drop in energy levels and extreme hunger. There are also long-acting stimulants like dexamfetamine and Lisdexamfetamine. These are a little more complex and require a prescription. They are injected in the bloodstream, and become active in the red blood cells.
Finding the appropriate dosage, medication and schedule for your child or yourself may take some time. Your doctor will monitor how you react to the medication and watch for problems like sleep issues. They will also talk to you about non-stimulant medication in the event that you or your child aren't responding well to stimulants.
Never stop or alter your ADHD medications without first consulting your doctor. It's also important to inform your doctor about any prescription supplements and medications you're taking, because certain of them may interact with some ADHD medications.
Long-acting stimulants
For 70-80% adults and children with ADHD stimulant medication is effective in reducing hyperactivity, interrupting behavior such as fidgeting, impulsivity and fidgeting. They can also increase focus and help people finish their tasks and maintain relationships. However, they aren't able to reduce moodiness or other problematic symptoms. They can also cause side effects like the loss of appetite, insomnia, jitteriness, stomachaches, changes in heart rhythm, and high blood pressure.
These medicines work in phases and help treat ADHD symptoms throughout the day. The majority begin to work within 30 to 45 minutes. They disappear in 3 to 6 hours. They can be used by themselves or in conjunction with other forms of ADHD treatment, such as behavioral therapy.
Some of these long acting stimulants, like atomoxetine-ER (Intuniv) and guanfacine (Strattera) are able to last for a long time and even the next day. Some doctors recommend taking them in the afternoon to avoid patients from having to take additional medication during school or afterschool.
Long-acting stimulants do not increase dopamine levels as rapidly as short- or intermediate-acting drugs, but they still boost their levels significantly. As a result, they don't cause the same kind of rebound effects as occur with shorter-acting drugs.
Long-acting stimulants, because of the possibility of adverse effects are typically prescribed as a last resort for adults suffering from ADHD and teens who are older. However, they can be used as a first-line treatment option for some people with ADHD who haven't responded to other medications.
While medication can improve concentration and self-control, it's never the sole solution for those suffering from ADHD. In conjunction with good sleep habits, healthy eating, and other self-help strategies it's possible to decrease or eliminate the need for ADHD medicine.