How Does ADHD Medication Work?
When a neuron sends an information to another, it makes use of neurotransmitters, chemicals. These chemicals must travel through a small gap that is called a synapse.
Some ADHD medications can make the transmission of these messages more efficient. They can assist neurons in the release of more neurotransmitters or slow down the process of reuptake (called reuptake inhibitors).
Doctors start ADHD patients with a lower dose and monitor their reaction. They alter the dosage over time to find the "sweet place" -- the lowest level that offers noticeable improvement in symptoms, with very few side effects.
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate the first medication that doctors try to help ADHD kids, is often Methylphenidate. It works by increasing the amount of norepinephrine and dopamine in children's brains which aids them in focusing and pay attention. It also decreases the impulsivity and hyperactivity of children. It is important to remember that the methylphenidate drug is a controlled substance and should only be used under a doctor's supervision.
Ritalin is the most commonly used methylphenidate drug. It comes in immediate-release tablets as well as chewable tablets and capsules. Certain versions of this medication contain the artificial sweetener aspartame, which is harmful for those suffering from phenylketonuria (an inheritable condition that causes severe intellectual impairment). Be sure to tell your provider about any food allergies you or your child suffers from.
Researchers have discovered that methylphenidate reduces aberrant activity in various parts of the brain, which includes the nucleus accumbens and the brain's three networks that play an important role in adaptive control. This is the reason why methylphenidate is among the most effective medications for treating ADHD.
Stimulants can cause side effects that can include the loss of appetite, sleepiness, stomach upset headache, anxiety, anxiety and tics. These are rare but they could be serious. If you notice them you must contact your doctor immediately. You should also tell your doctor if your child is suffering from allergies, an underlying heart condition, bipolar disorder, depression or any other mental health issues, glaucoma, a history of stroke or seizures, or if you are taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) like isocarboxazid (Marplan), linezolid (Zyvox) and the methylene blue, or phenelzine (Nardil). It is essential to take methylphenidate as prescribed by your doctor.
Amphetamines
Amphetamines speed up messages between brain cells and help you concentrate your thoughts and avoid distractions. They are among the most commonly prescribed medications to treat ADHD in children and adults. They increase the levels of neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine in your brain. Amphetamines are available in short-acting (immediate release) and intermediate- or long-acting forms. They can be ingested or by injection.
Certain people are affected by the side effects of stimulant medication, like restlessness, difficulties sleeping, or an increased heart rate or high blood pressure. Your doctor will monitor the symptoms and adjust the dosage to find the best one for you. adhd depression medication may need to take a mixture of medications to get the desired effect.
The effects of stimulants are primarily on two neurotransmitters that are located in the prefrontal cortex. This is the region of the brain which regulates emotions and manages your behavior. These medications are prescribed to treat a variety of mental health problems such as depression, ADD/ADHD anxiety, bipolar disorder and depression.
The most common kinds of stimulant drugs include methylphenidates and amphetamines. The FDA has approved dozens brand-name stimulants for treating ADHD. They are available in various forms - from stimulants that are short-acting to long-acting stimulants - and can be consumed orally or injectable. Students, truck drivers and teenagers who require more energy to do endurance sports may abuse amphetamines. Amphetamines can trigger physical and psychological problems when used improperly, especially in higher doses.
ADHD is treatable with non-stimulant medications. They include atomoxetine and 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 are less likely to cause tics worse which is a concern for those with Tourette's Syndrome.
Short-acting stimulants
These medicines are used to treat teens and children with ADHD. They can be taken through the mouth or applied to the skin. They come in pills that can be chewed or swallowed and capsules that can be opened and sprinkled onto food, and liquid and patches. They are usually available only with a prescription from a doctor. These include methylphenidate, (brand names Ritalin (Concerta, Focalin (Daytrana) and amphetamines (Adderall (Dexedrine, Vyvanse)). Short-acting stimulants are fast-acting and last for about 3 to 6 hours.
These medications ease symptoms in 70-80 percent 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 relationships and academic performance. They don't fix the underlying issues that create ADHD. Therefore, adhd and depression medication to use them along with behavior therapy.
It's also important to understand that ADHD medications can cause side effects. You might feel sleepy or cranky, or even sleepy. These effects are usually minimal, and they disappear as soon as the medicine leaves your system. Your doctor might advise you to start with a small dosage and gradually increase it. They will be watching you or your child closely to determine if there are any problems with the medication.
It may take time to determine the best medication and dose for you or your child. It is recommended to speak openly with your health professional. They might suggest changes to how often you or your child is taking the medication, or when it's required at all. They may also want to know whether you or your child suffer from any other mental or medical conditions.
Intermediate stimulants
Stimulants control ADHD symptoms by altering the activity of neurotransmitters in the brain. This helps increase the levels of dopamine as well as norepinephrine, two chemical compounds that are important for the function 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 medication. Your doctor will assist you in figuring out which kind of medication and dose is right for you. You may need to test various types of medicines before settling on the one that is most effective for you or your child.
You can take immediate-release stimulants in liquid form as well as chewable tablets. They perform quickly and last for up to four hours. There are some people who experience problems when the medicine wears off, which is called the "crash effect." It usually results in an immediate reduction in energy levels and can cause intense hunger. There are also long-acting stimulants like dexamfetamine and lisdexamfetamine. These are more complicated and require prescriptions. They are injected into the bloodstream, and they become active in the red blood cells.
Finding the right medication, dosage and schedule for your child or yourself can take time. Your doctor will monitor how you respond to medication and will be on the lookout for any issues such as sleep disturbances. If you or your child are not responding well to stimulants, they'll also discuss non-stimulant medication.
Never stop or change your ADHD medication without consulting with your doctor. Inform your doctor if use any prescription medications or supplements, since some can interact with ADHD medications.
Long-acting stimulants
For 70-80% of adults and children with ADHD stimulant medications are effective in reducing hyperactivity, interrupting behavior as well as impulsivity, fidgeting and fidgeting. They can also increase focus and help people finish tasks and maintain relationships. They can't help with moodiness, or other nagging symptoms. They may also cause side effects such as the loss of appetite, insomnia and anxiety. They may also cause stomachaches, changes in heart rhythm and high blood pressure.
These medications work in stages to treat ADHD symptoms all day long. The majority begin to work within 30 to 45 minutes. They disappear within 3 to 6 hours. They can be used in combination with other types of ADHD treatment, such as behavioral therapy.
Some of these long acting stimulants, such as atomoxetine-ER (Intuniv) and guanfacine (Strattera) are able to be used all night long and last until the next morning. Some doctors recommend taking these in the afternoon to avoid patients from having to take additional medication in school or in the afternoon.
Long-acting stimulants don't increase dopamine levels as rapidly as short- or intermediate-acting drugs, but they still increase them significantly. As a result, they don't produce the same kind of rebound effects that can be experienced with shorter-acting substances.
Due to the possibility of adverse effects, long-acting stimulants are typically prescribed as a second line treatment for adults and older teens with ADHD. They are also used to treat some people with ADHD when other medications haven't been effective.
While medication can help improve concentration and self-control, it's never the only solution for people suffering from ADHD. With the help of healthy eating habits, regular sleep, and other self-help techniques it's possible to reduce, or even eliminate, the necessity for ADHD medication.