How Does ADHD Medication Work?
When one neuron transmits an electrical signal to another, it uses chemicals known as neurotransmitters. These chemicals must travel through a small gap that is called a synapse.
Certain ADHD medications make the transmission of these messages more efficient. They may assist neurons in the release of more neurotransmitters or slow down the reuptake process (called Reuptake inhibitors).
Doctors begin ADHD patients with a lower dose and monitor their reaction. They gradually increase the dosage to discover the "sweet spot," the lowest dose that produces a clear improvement in symptoms and has few adverse side effects.
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate is the first type of medication doctors frequently attempt to offer to children suffering from ADHD. It increases the amount of norepinephrine as well as dopamine in kids' brains which aids them in paying attention and focus. It also reduces their hyperactivity and impulsivity. It is important to remember that the methylphenidate drug is a controlled substance and should only be taken under the supervision of a physician.
The most common methylphenidate medication 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). Some versions of the medication contain aspartame (an artificial sweetener), which can be dangerous for those with the genetic condition phenylketonuria which causes severe intellectual impairment. Inform your doctor if or your child have food allergies.
Researchers have discovered that methylphenidate reduces aberrant activity in parts of the brain, such as the nucleus of accumbens, as well as a brain network comprised of three networks that play a part in adaptive control. This may explain why methylphenidate was found to be among the most effective medications in treating ADHD.
The adverse effects of stimulants can include sleepiness, nausea, headaches, anxiety, agitation or an agitation and tics. These are rare, but they can be serious. If you experience any of them you should contact your doctor right away. You should also tell your doctor if you or your child has allergies, a history of heart disease or bipolar disorder, depression or other mental health problems or glaucoma, a past history of seizures or strokes or if you're taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) such as isocarboxazid (Marplan) or linezolid (Zyvox) or methylene blue, or phenelzine (Nardil). It's important to take methylphenidate exactly as recommended by your doctor.
Amphetamines
Amphetamines can speed up the transmission of messages between brain cells and aid in focusing your mind and avoid distractions. They are among the most commonly prescribed medications to treat ADHD in adults and children. They increase the level of neurotransmitters norepinephrine as well as dopamine in your brain. Amphetamines are available in short-acting (immediate release) and intermediate- or long-acting forms. They can be consumed orally and also via injection.
Some people have a difficult time with the side effects of stimulant medications including sleeplessness, insomnia, or a rise in blood pressure and heart rate. adult add medication will observe the symptoms and adjust the dosage to determine the right one for you. Some people may need to take a mix of medications to get the desired effect.
Stimulant drugs work by affecting two important neurotransmitters in the pre-frontal cortex. This is the brain region that regulates emotions and regulate your behavior. These drugs are prescribed to treat a wide range of mental health disorders that include ADD/ADHD, as well as other ailments like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, narcolepsy, and eating disorders.
The most popular kinds of stimulant drugs are methylphenidates and amphetamines. The FDA has approved dozens of brand-name stimulants for treating ADHD. They come in different types, from short-acting up to long-acting, and are administered either orally or via injection. Students, truck drivers and teenagers who need more energy to compete in endurance sports can abuse amphetamines. Amphetamines can cause mental and physical issues when used improperly, especially in higher doses.
Non-stimulant medications 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 are built on the same chemical that stimulants do, however they are less likely to trigger the tics of people suffering from Tourette syndrome.
Short-acting stimulants
These drugs are used to treat teens and children with ADHD. They can be taken through the mouth or applied on the skin. They come in pills that can be chewed, swallowed, or swallowed, capsules that can be opened and sprinkled onto food items, as well as liquids and patches. They are typically only available through prescription. These include methylphenidate (brand names Ritalin (Concerta, Focalin (Daytrana), andamphetamines, (Adderall (Dexedrine, Vyvanse)). Short-acting stimulants perform quickly and last for about 3 to 6 hours.
These medications alleviate symptoms for 70-80% of adults and children with ADHD. They decrease the amount of fidgeting and interruptions, and make it easier for you to complete tasks. They also help improve academic performance and relationships. They can't address the root issues that are the cause of ADHD. Therefore, it's crucial to use them in conjunction with behavior therapy.
It is important to be aware that ADHD medication can cause negative side effects. They can cause you to be drowsy or cranky, and they could interfere with your sleep. However, these effects are usually small and disappear as the medicine leaves your body. Your doctor might 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 look for any problems.
Finding the right medication for your child or yourself could take some time. It's best to open with your health care provider and communicate clearly. They may suggest changes in how often you or your child takes the medication, or even if it's needed at all. They will also be looking to determine if you or your child suffer from any other medical or mental ailments.
Intermediate stimulants
Stimulants help to manage ADHD symptoms by altering the neurotransmitter activity of the brain. This increases the levels of dopamine as well as norepinephrine, two chemicals that are vital to the functioning of the pre-frontal cortex region of the brain (think of it as your "secretary" in the executive function part of your brain). The majority of kids with ADHD respond well to stimulant medication. Your doctor can help you determine the right dosage and medication for you. You may have to try several different types of medication before you can find the one that is right for you or your kids.
You can take stimulants that release immediately in liquid form and chewable tablets. They begin to work quickly and last for three or four hours. The "crash effect" occurs when the medicine wears out. It is characterized by rapid reduction in energy levels as well as an intense hunger. There are also long-acting stimulants like dexamfetamine or Lisdexamfetamine. These are a little more complicated and require prescription. They are injected into the bloodstream, and are activated in the red blood cells.
It takes time to find the right medication, dosage and schedule for your child or yourself. Your doctor will track how you respond to medication and look for signs like trouble sleeping. They will also inform you about non-stimulant medications in the event that you or your child aren't responding well to the stimulants.
Never stop or change your ADHD medication without first consulting with your doctor. It's also important to inform your doctor about any over-the-counter supplements or medications you're taking, as certain medications can interact with some ADHD medications.
Long-acting stimulants
Stimulant medications work for 70-80 percent of adults and children with ADHD aiding in cutting down on hyperactivity, interrupting or fidgeting and impulsivity. They also aid people to focus, finish tasks, and maintain relationships. They might not help reduce moodiness or other troublesome symptoms. They can also cause negative side effects, such as the loss of appetite, insomnia and jitteriness. They may also cause stomachaches, changes in the heart rhythm, and high blood pressure.
These medications work in phases to treat ADHD symptoms throughout the day. The majority of these medications begin to work within 30 to 60 minutes. They disappear after 3 to 6 hours. They are often used in combination with other types of ADHD treatment like behavioral therapy.
Some of these stimulants that act long-lastingly like Atomoxetine (Strattera) and Guanfacine-ER (Intuniv) are able to last through the night and into the morning. Some doctors suggest using them to fill an afternoon trough, so that patients don't need an additional dose at school or afterschool.
Long-acting stimulants do not increase dopamine levels to the same degree as intermediate or short-acting drugs. However, they do so significantly. They don't have the same effects on rebound 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 teens who are older. However, they can also be used as a first-line treatment option for certain people with ADHD who haven't responded to other medications.
While medication can 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 self-help strategies it's possible to decrease or eliminate the necessity for ADHD medication.