How Does ADHD Medication Work?
When one neuron sends a message to another, it makes use of neurotransmitters or chemicals. They must travel through a tiny gap known as the synapse.
Some ADHD medications help in the passing along of these messages more efficient. They may aid neurons in releasing more neurotransmitters or slow down the process of reuptake (called Reuptake inhibitors).
Doctors begin ADHD patients on a low dosage and monitor their reaction. They gradually adjust the dosage to discover the "sweet spot," the lowest dose that results in a significant improvement in symptoms and produces fewer adverse effects.
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate the first medication that doctors use to treat ADHD children, is usually Methylphenidate. It increases the amount of norepinephrine as well as dopamine in kids' brains which helps them pay attention and concentrate. It also decreases their impulsivity and hyperactivity. Be aware that methylphenidate should only be taken with an appointment with a doctor since it is a controlled drug.
The most common methylphenidate medication is Ritalin. It is available in tablets that release immediately (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). Certain versions of this medication contain the artificial sweetener aspartame, which can be dangerous for people with phenylketonuria (an inheritable condition that causes severe intellectual impairment). Make sure you inform your provider about any food allergies you or your child has.
Researchers have discovered that methylphenidate decreases abnormal activity in various parts of the brain, which includes the nucleus accumbens and a network of three brain networks that play a role in adaptive control. This may explain why methylphenidate was found to be one of the most effective medications in treating ADHD.
The side effects of stimulants are headaches, nausea, sleepiness, anxiety, agitation or the tics and agitation. These aren't common, but they can be serious. If you notice them you should contact your doctor right away. Tell your doctor about any allergies, heart disease, depression, bipolar disorders, other mental health conditions such as glaucoma, seizures or glaucoma. Also, inform them that you or your child have a history. It is essential to take your methylphenidate exactly according to the doctor's prescription.
Amphetamines
Amphetamines speed up messages between brain cells and aid in focusing your mind and stay clear of distractions. They are the most frequently prescribed drugs for treating ADHD in children and adults. They boost the levels of neurotransmitters, dopamine and norepinephrine, in your brain. Amphetamines are available in short-acting (immediate release) and intermediate- or long-acting forms. They can be ingested as well as via injection.
Certain people are affected by the negative side effects of stimulant medication like restlessness, difficulties sleeping, or an increased heart rate or high blood pressure. Your doctor will be able to monitor the symptoms and adjust the dosage to determine the best one for you. Some people may have to take a combination of drugs to achieve the desired effect.
Stimulant drugs affect two important neurotransmitters located in the prefrontal cortex. This is the part of the brain which regulates emotions and manages your behavior. These medications are prescribed for a broad variety of mental health issues such as ADD/ADHD and conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, narcolepsy, and eating disorders.
Amphetamines and methylphenidates are among the most commonly used stimulant drugs. The FDA has approved dozens brand-name stimulants to treat ADHD. They are available in different forms ranging from short-acting stimulants to long-acting stimulants. They can be taken orally, or injectable. Truck drivers, students and teens who require more energy to perform endurance sports may abuse amphetamines. Amphetamines can cause mental and physical issues when they are misused, especially at higher doses.
ADHD is treatable with non-stimulant drugs. 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 on the same chemicals that stimulants are, but they are less likely to exacerbate the tics of people suffering from Tourette syndrome.
Short-acting stimulants
These drugs are used for treating adolescents and children with ADHD. These medications can be taken orally or applied to the skin. They are available as pills that can be swallowed or chewed, capsules that can be opened and sprinkled on food items, and liquid patches. They are typically only available on prescription. These 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 drugs ease symptoms for 70 percent to 80% of children and adults with ADHD. They can reduce fidgeting and interruptions, as well as making it easier to finish tasks. They can also enhance academic performance and improve relationships. But they don't solve the root causes of ADHD. It's crucial to combine the two therapies with behavior therapy.
It is important to be aware that ADHD medications can cause side effects. They can cause you to be drowsy or cranky, and may interfere with your sleep. However, these effects are usually minor and go away as the medication is gone from your body. Your doctor may ask you to start with a small dose and increase it gradually. They'll watch to see how the medication affects you or your child and look for any problems.
It could take some time to find the right dosage and medication for you or your child. It's best to open with your health care team and communicate clearly. They may suggest changes in how often you or your child is taking the medication, or whether it's necessary at all. They will also be looking to determine if you or your child suffer from any other medical or mental conditions.
Intermediate stimulants
Stimulants are used to treat ADHD symptoms by altering the activities of key neurotransmitters in the brain. This increases the levels of dopamine as well as norepinephrine, two chemicals that are essential for the functioning of the pre-frontal cortex area of the brain (think of it as your "secretary" in the executive function part of your brain). Stimulant medications are effective for the majority of ADHD children. Your doctor will work with you to figure out which kind of medication and dosage is best for you. It is possible to try different kinds of medications before you find the one that is most effective for you or your child.
It is possible to take stimulants with immediate release in liquid form or chewable tablets. These medications perform quickly and last for up to four hours. The "crash effect" is a sign that the medicine wears out. This is evident by rapid decrease in energy levels and intense hunger. There are also long-acting stimulants, such as dexamfetamine or Lisdexamfetamine. These are more complex and require a prescription. They are injected into bloodstreams and change from inactive to active in red blood cells.
It can take time to find the correct dosage, medication and schedule for you or your child. Your doctor will be monitoring your response to the medication, and will look for any signs of trouble such as trouble sleeping. If you or your child are not responding well to stimulants, your doctor will also discuss non-stimulant medications.
You shouldn't alter or stop taking your ADHD medication without speaking to your doctor first. Tell your doctor if you take any over-the counter medications or supplements, since some could interact with ADHD medications.
Long-acting stimulants
For 70-80% of adults and children with ADHD stimulant medications work in decreasing hyperactivity, interrupting behavior as well as impulsivity, fidgeting and fidgeting. They also help increase focus and help people finish tasks and maintain relationships. However, they aren't able to alleviate moodiness or other irritable symptoms. They may also cause side effects such as loss of appetite, insomnia and anxiety. They can also cause stomachaches, heart rhythm changes, and high blood pressure.
These medicines work in phases and help treat ADHD symptoms throughout the day. medication for adhd in adults of these drugs begin to work within 30 to 60 minutes, and fade 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 using them to fill an afternoon trough, so patients don't need an additional dose at school or in the afternoon.
Long-acting stimulants don't increase dopamine levels as dramatically as short- and intermediate-acting drugs, yet they increase their levels significantly. They don't have the same rebound effects as stimulants with shorter durations.
Long-acting stimulants, because of the possibility of adverse effects they are typically prescribed as a secondary treatment for adults with ADHD and older teens. They are also employed to treat a few people suffering from ADHD if other medications haven't worked.
While medication can aid in improving concentration and self-control but it's not the only solution for people suffering from ADHD. With the help of a good night's sleeping habits, healthy diets and other self-help methods, it is often possible to decrease or even eliminate the necessity for ADHD medication.