How Does ADHD Medication Work?
When a neuron transmits a message to another, it makes use of neurotransmitters, chemicals. These chemicals must travel through the gap, which is known as a synapse.
Certain ADHD medications can increase the efficiency of these messages. They can either aid in the release of neurotransmitters more or slow the process of reuptake (called reuptake inhibiters).
Doctors start ADHD patients on a low dosage and then monitor their response. They gradually increase the dosage to discover the "sweet spot," the lowest dose that produces a clear improvement in symptoms, and has a few adverse effects.
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate is the primary type of medication doctors often attempt to assist children with ADHD. It helps by increasing the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine 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 taken under a doctor’s supervision as it is a controlled substance.
Ritalin is the most common methylphenidate drug. It comes in immediate-release tablets, chewable tablets, and capsules. Certain forms of the medication contain aspartame (an artificial sweetener) which is harmful for those suffering from Phenylketonuria, a genetic condition which causes severe intellectual impairment. Be sure to inform your provider about any food allergies that you or your child has.
Researchers have discovered that methylphenidate can reduce abnormal activity in certain areas of the brain, which includes the nucleus accumbens and a brain network comprised of three networks that play an important role in adaptive control. This may explain why methylphenidate is considered to be one of the most effective drugs for treating ADHD.
The side effects of stimulants are sleepiness, nausea, headaches, anxiety, agitation or the tics and agitation. These are not common, but they can be serious. If you notice them, you should call your doctor immediately. It is also important to inform your doctor if you or 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) such as isocarboxazid (Marplan) and linezolid (Zyvox) or methylene blue, or phenelzine (Nardil). It is important to take methylphenidate according to the dosage recommended by your doctor.
Amphetamines
Amphetamines can help you focus your thoughts and block out distractions by speeding up the messages between brain cells. They are the most frequently prescribed medications to treat ADHD in both children and adults. They increase the amount of neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine in your brain. Amphetamines can be found in short-acting (immediate release) and intermediate- or long-acting form. They can be consumed orally or by injection.
Certain people are affected by the negative side effects of stimulant medication such as restlessness or difficulty sleeping, or an increased heart rate or high blood pressure. Your doctor will monitor your symptoms and adjust the dose to determine the most effective one for you. Some patients may need to take a mix of drugs to achieve the desired effect.
The effects of stimulants are mediated by two essential neurotransmitters within the pre-frontal cortex. This is the part of your brain that helps regulate emotions and regulate your behavior. They are prescribed for a wide range of mental health conditions such as ADD/ADHD and ailments like bipolar disorder, narcolepsy and eating disorders.
The most common kinds of stimulant drugs are methylphenidates and amphetamines. The FDA has approved dozens brand-name stimulants to treat ADHD. They come in different forms, from short-acting to long-acting, and are administered either by injection or orally. Students, truck drivers and teenagers who require more energy to do endurance sports may abuse amphetamines. Amphetamines can trigger psychological and physical problems when misused, particularly at higher doses.
Non-stimulant medicines can also be effective in treating ADHD. These include atomoxetine 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 with the same chemicals as stimulants, but are less likely to cause more tics and cause problems for people with Tourette's syndrome.
Short-acting stimulants
These medications are used for treating adolescents and children with ADHD. They can be consumed by mouth or applied to the skin. They are available in liquids and patches, as well as pills that can either be chewed or swallowed. They are typically only available through prescription. These include methylphenidate, (brand names Ritalin (Concerta, Focalin (Daytrana) and amphetamines (Adderall (Dexedrine, Vyvanse)). Short-acting stimulants are fast-acting and last for 3 to 6 hours.
These medications alleviate symptoms in 70-80% of adults and children with ADHD. They can reduce the need to fidget, interrupting and make it easier to complete your tasks. They also help improve academic performance and interpersonal relationships. They can't correct the root issues that create ADHD. It's crucial to combine the two therapies with behavior therapy.
It's also important to understand that ADHD medicines have side effects. They can make you drowsy or cranky, and they may interfere with your sleep. However, these effects are typically minimal and will disappear once the medicine leaves your body. Your doctor may advise you to start with a small dose and increase it gradually. They will monitor you or your child to determine whether there are any issues with the medication.
It can take some time to determine the best dosage and medication for your child or yourself. It's best to be open with your health care providers and communicate clearly. They might suggest an increase in the frequency of medications that you or your child take or if a medication is needed at all. They may also be looking to determine if you or your child have any other mental or medical conditions.
Intermediate stimulants
Stimulants work to control ADHD symptoms by altering the activity of key neurotransmitters in the brain. This increases the levels of dopamine as well as norepinephrine. These two chemicals are essential for the functioning of the pre-frontal cortex of the brain (think of it as your "secretary" in the executive functioning area of your brain). Most kids with ADHD respond well to stimulant medications. Your doctor will assist you in figuring out which type of medication and dose is best for you. You may have to try different types of medication before you find the one that is most effective for you or your child.
You can take these stimulants in tablet or liquid form. They are quick-acting and last for three to four hours. Some people experience a problem after the medication has worn off, which is called the "crash effect." This typically results in a sharp reduction in energy levels and can result in intense hunger. Long-acting stimulants (like dexamfetamine and lisdexamfetamine) are also available. These are a little more complicated and require prescription. They are injected into the bloodstream and then change from inactive to active in red blood cells.
It can take time to find the correct dosage, medication, and schedule for your child or you. Your doctor will monitor your reaction to the medication and look for any issues like trouble sleeping. They will also advise you about medications that are not stimulant in the event that you or your child are not responding well to stimulants.
Never stop or alter your ADHD medication without consulting your doctor. Tell your doctor if you take any prescription drugs or supplements, as some can interact with ADHD medications.
Long-acting stimulants
Stimulant medication is effective for 70-80 percent of adults and children with ADHD aiding in cutting down on hyperactivity, interruptions or fidgeting and impulsivity. They can also help people concentrate, complete tasks and maintain relationships. They might not help reduce moodiness or other troublesome symptoms. adhd adults medication can also trigger negative side effects, such as the loss of appetite, insomnia and nervousness. They can also trigger stomachaches, changes in the heart rhythm, and high blood pressure.
These medicines work in phases aiding in the treatment of ADHD symptoms throughout the day. The majority begin to work within 30 to 45 minutes, and fade in 3 to 6 hours. They can be utilized in conjunction with other forms of ADHD treatment such as behavioral therapy.
Some of these long acting stimulants, including atomoxetine (Intuniv) and guanfacine (Strattera), can last all night and the next morning. Some doctors recommend taking these in the afternoon to avoid patients from requiring additional medication at school or afterschool.
Long-acting stimulants do not increase dopamine levels to the same degree as intermediate- or short-acting drugs. However, they increase dopamine levels significantly. This means that they don't cause the same type of rebound effects that occur with shorter-acting drugs.
Long-acting stimulants, because of the possibility of adverse effects they are typically prescribed as a secondary treatment for adults with ADHD and teens who are older. However, they can be used as a first-line treatment for certain people with ADHD who haven't been able to respond to other medications.
While medication can aid in improving concentration and self-control, 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 reduce, or even eliminate, the need for ADHD medication.