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How Does ADHD Medication Work?
When one neuron sends an information to another, it makes use of neurotransmitters, chemicals. They need to cross a tiny gap called the synapse.
Certain ADHD medications can make the transmission of these messages more effective. They may help neurons release neurotransmitters more frequently or slow down the process of reuptake (called reuptake inhibitors).
Doctors start ADHD patients on a low dosage and monitor their response. They adjust the dosage gradually to discover the "sweet spot," the lowest dose that results in a significant improvement in symptoms and has few adverse side effects.
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate is the most common kind of medication that doctors typically try to help kids with ADHD. It works by increasing the amount of dopamine and norepinephrine that is present in children's brains, which helps them focus and pay attention. It also reduces their impulsivity and hyperactivity. Be aware that methylphenidate should only be taken with the supervision of a physician since it is a controlled drug.
The most well-known methylphenidate drug is Ritalin. It's available in immediate-release tablets (Ritalin, Concerta, or Quillichew ER), long-acting chewable tablets (Cotempla XR-ODT or Adhansia XR) or long-acting capsules (Adhansia PM or Jornay PM). Certain versions of this medication contain the artificial sweetener aspartame, which may be dangerous for people with Phenylketonuria (an inheritable condition that causes severe intellectual disability). Inform your doctor if you or your child have food allergies.
Researchers have discovered that methylphenidate may reduce abnormal activity, especially in the nucleus of accumbens as well as a network of brain networks that are involved in the process of adaptive control. This is the reason why methylphenidate is one of the most effective drugs for treating ADHD.
Side effects of stimulants include headaches, nausea, insomnia, anxiety, agitation or agitation and tics. They aren't common, but they could be serious. If they occur you must contact your doctor immediately. Tell your doctor about any heart disease, allergies depression, bipolar disorders and other mental health issues such as glaucoma, seizures or glaucoma. Also, inform them that you or your child have a history. It is important to take your methylphenidate exactly according to the doctor's prescription.
Amphetamines
Amphetamines can help you focus on your thoughts and ignore distractions by speeding up the communication between brain cells. They are among the most popular drugs used to treat ADHD in both adults and children. They increase the amount of neurotransmitters norepinephrine as well as dopamine in your brain. Amphetamines are available in short-acting (immediate release) and intermediate- or long-acting form. They are available orally or through injection.
Certain people are affected by the negative side effects of stimulant medication, like restlessness, trouble sleeping, or increased heart rate and elevated blood pressure. Your doctor will be able to monitor your symptoms and adjust the dose to find the best one for you. Some patients may require multiple medications to achieve the desired outcome.
Drugs that stimulate the brain affect two key neurotransmitters that are located in the prefrontal cortex. This is the region of the brain that regulates emotions and governs your behavior. These drugs are prescribed to treat a variety of mental health problems that include depression, ADD/ADHD anxiety, bipolar disorder and depression.
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 different forms - from short-acting stimulants to long-acting stimulants - and can be taken orally or injected. Amphetamines are often abused by teenagers who take them to keep awake and focus for tests or by truck drivers and students who require an extra boost of energy to compete in endurance sports. They can also cause physical and mental problems when misused, especially with higher doses.
ADHD can be treated with non-stimulant medications. 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 exacerbate tics in people with Tourette syndrome.
Short-acting stimulants
These drugs are prescribed to treat adolescents and children with ADHD. These medications can be taken orally or applied to the skin. They are available in liquids and patches and pills that can either be swallowed or chewed. They are typically only available with a doctor's prescription. The medications include methylphenidate (brand names Ritalin, Concerta, Focalin, Daytrana), and amphetamines (Adderall, Dexedrine, Vyvanse). Short-acting stimulants are fast-acting and last from 3 to 6 hours.
These medications ease the symptoms of 70% to 80% of children and adults suffering from ADHD. They reduce fidgeting, interrupting and make it easier to complete your tasks. They also help improve academic performance and interpersonal relationships. However, they aren't able to address the root issues that cause ADHD. So it's important to use them in conjunction with behavior therapy.
It's also important to recognize that ADHD medicines have side effects. You might feel tired or cranky, or even sleepy. These effects are usually minor and will disappear once the medicine leaves your system. Your doctor will probably suggest you take a small dose at first and then increase it gradually. They'll observe how the medication affects your child or you, and check for any issues.
It can take some time to find the right dosage and medication for you or your child. It is recommended to speak openly with your health professional. They might read more suggest a change in the frequency of medication that you or your child is taking or if a medication is required at any time. They may also want to know if you or your child have any other mental or medical conditions.
Intermediate stimulants
Stimulants are used to treat ADHD symptoms by altering the activity of important neurotransmitters in the brain. This increases the levels of norepinephrine as well as dopamine, two substances that are important for the pre-frontal cortical region of the brain. (Think of it as "your secretary" in the executive part of your brain). Most kids with ADHD respond well to stimulant medications. Your doctor will assist you in figuring out what kind of medication and dose is right for you. It is possible to try different types of medication before you find the one that is right for you or your child.
You can take these stimulants in tablet or liquid form. They perform quickly and last for up to four hours. The "crash effect" is a sign that the medication wears off. This is characterized by rapid decrease in energy levels and extreme hunger. Long-acting stimulants (like dexamfetamine and lisdexamfetamine) are also available. These are more complicated and require prescriptions. They are injected in the bloodstream and are activated in the red blood cell.
Finding the right dosage, medication and schedule for your child or yourself can take a lot of time. Your doctor will be monitoring your reaction to the medication, and look for any issues like trouble sleeping. They will also advise you about non-stimulant medication if you or your child are not responding well to the stimulants.
Do not stop or alter your ADHD medication without first consulting your physician. It is also essential to inform your doctor about any over-the counter supplements or medications you're taking, as some of them can interfere with certain 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 increase focus and help people finish their tasks and maintain relationships. However, they might not alleviate moodiness or other irritable symptoms. They may also cause side effects such as the loss of appetite, insomnia and anxiety. They can also cause stomachaches, heart rhythm changes, and high blood pressure.
These medications work in phases to treat ADHD symptoms all day long. The majority begin to work within 30 to 45 minutes, and fade in 3 to 6 hours. They can be used alone or 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 morning. Some doctors suggest taking these in the afternoon, to avoid patients from requiring additional medication during school or afterschool.
Long-acting stimulants do not increase dopamine levels as much as intermediate- and short-acting drugs, but they do boost them significantly. They don't have the same effects on rebound as shorter-acting stimulants.
Due to the possibility of side effects, long-acting stimulants are typically prescribed as a second line treatment for older teens with ADHD. They are also used to treat certain people suffering from ADHD when other medications haven't been effective.
While medication can help improve concentration and self-control, it's not the sole solution for those suffering from ADHD. When combined with a healthy sleeping routine and healthy eating habits, as well as other strategies for self-help, it's often possible to decrease or eliminate the need for ADHD medication.