How Does ADHD Medication Work?
When one neuron sends a message to another neuron, it makes use of neurotransmitters or chemicals. These chemicals must travel through a small gap that is called a synapse.
Certain ADHD medications can increase the efficiency of these messages. They can help neurons release more neurotransmitters, or slow down the reuptake process (called reuptake inhibitors).
Doctors start ADHD patients with a low dose and monitor their reaction. They adjust the dosage gradually to find the "sweet spot," the lowest dose that shows a noticeable improvement in symptoms and produces fewer side effects.
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate, the first medication that doctors use to treat ADHD kids, is typically Methylphenidate. It increases the amount of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brains of children, which aids them in paying attention and focus. It also reduces their hyperactivity and impulsivity. Be aware that methylphenidate should only be used under the supervision of a physician since it is a controlled substance.
The most well-known methylphenidate drug is Ritalin. It's available as tablets with immediate release (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 this medication contain artificial sweeteners such as aspartame, which is hazardous for those suffering from phenylketonuria (an inherited condition that causes severe intellectual impairment). Tell your provider if you or your child suffer from food allergies.
Researchers have discovered that methylphenidate reduces aberrant activity, particularly in the nucleus of accumbens as well as a network of brain networks that are involved in adaptive control. This is the reason why methylphenidate has been found to be one of the most effective medications in treating ADHD.
Stimulants can trigger side effects that include loss of appetite, sleepiness, stomach upset headache, anxiety, agitation and the tics. These are not common, but they can be serious. If you experience any of them you should contact your doctor right away. Tell your doctor about any allergies, heart diseases depression, bipolar disorders and other mental health issues, glaucoma or seizures. Also, tell them if your child or you have a history. It is important to take methylphenidate according to the dosage recommended by your doctor.
Amphetamines
Amphetamines speed up messages between brain cells. They can help you concentrate your thoughts and stay clear of distractions. They are the most frequently prescribed drugs for treating ADHD in adults and children. 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 versions. They can be ingested and also via injection.
Certain people are affected by the negative side effects of stimulant medication, like restlessness, difficulty sleeping, or an increased heart rate or high blood pressure. Your doctor will monitor your symptoms and adjust the dose to find the right one for you. Some people may have to take a mixture of drugs to achieve the desired effects.
Drugs that stimulate the brain affect two key neurotransmitters located in the prefrontal cortex. This is the region of the brain that regulates emotions and governs your behavior. These medications 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 a variety of brand-name stimulants to treat ADHD. They are available in a variety of types, from short-acting up to long-acting and are administered orally or by injection. Amphetamines are often abused by teenagers who take them to keep awake and focus for tests, or by truck drivers and students who need an extra boost of energy to compete in endurance sports. They can also cause physical and psychological problems if misused, especially with higher doses.
Non-stimulant drugs are also effective in treating ADHD. 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 made up of the same chemical that stimulants do, however they are less likely to trigger tics in people with Tourette syndrome.
adhd treatment without medication -acting stimulants
These medicines are used to treat teens and children suffering from ADHD. These medications can be taken orally or applied to the skin. They are available as pills that can be chewed, swallowed, or swallowed, capsules that can be opened and sprinkled onto food, and liquid and patches. They are generally only available on prescription by a physician. These include methylphenidate (brand names Ritalin, Concerta, Focalin, Daytrana), and amphetamines (Adderall, Dexedrine, Vyvanse). Short-acting stimulants have a rapid effect and last from 3 and 6 hours.
These drugs relieve symptoms for 70-80 percent of children and adults with ADHD. They reduce fidgeting and interrupting, making it easier for you to complete tasks. They also help improve relationships and academic performance. But they don't solve the underlying problems that cause ADHD. It's therefore important to utilize them along with behavior therapy.
It's also important to recognize that ADHD medicines have side effects. They can make you drowsy or cranky, and they can affect your sleep. These effects are usually minor, and they disappear when the medication is gone from your system. Your doctor may recommend taking only a small amount at first and then increase it gradually. They'll observe how the medication affects your child or you, and look for any problems.
It could take some time to find the right medication and dose for you or your child. It's best to be open with your health care providers and communicate clearly. They may suggest changes in the frequency of medication that you or your child takes or if a medication is needed at all. They may also want to know whether you or your child has any other mental or medical ailments.
Intermediate stimulants
Stimulants work to control ADHD symptoms by altering the activity of key neurotransmitters in the brain. This can increase the levels of dopamine as well as norepinephrine, two chemical compounds that are essential for 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 children with ADHD respond well to stimulant medications. Your doctor will collaborate with you to figure out which kind of medication and dose is right for you. It is possible to test various kinds of medication before you find the one that is suitable for you or your kids.
It is possible to take stimulants with immediate release in liquid form as well as chewable tablets. These medications are quick-acting and last for up to four hours. The "crash effect" is a sign that the medicine is exhausted. This is evident by an abrupt reduction in energy levels as well as intense hunger. There are also long-acting stimulants like dexamfetamine or Lisdexamfetamine. They are more complex and require prescription. They are injected into the bloodstream and are then converted from inactive active in red blood cells.
It takes time to find the correct dosage, medication and schedule for your child or you. 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 is not responding well to stimulants, they will also discuss non-stimulant medication.
You shouldn't discontinue or alter your ADHD medication without speaking to your doctor first. It's also important to tell your doctor about any over-the-counter medications and supplements you are taking, because certain medications can interfere with certain ADHD medications.
Long-acting stimulants
For 70-80% of adults and children with ADHD stimulant medication is effective in decreasing hyperactivity, interrupting behaviour such as fidgeting, impulsivity and fidgeting. They can also help people focus, finish tasks, and maintain relationships. However, they may not alleviate moodiness or other irritable symptoms. They can also cause side effects such as loss of appetite, insomnia and anxiety. They can also cause stomachaches, changes in heart rhythm, and high blood pressure.
These medicines work in phases, helping to treat ADHD symptoms throughout the day. Most of these drugs start to work within 30 to 60 minutes. They fade after 3 to 6 hours. They can be used alone or in conjunction with other types of ADHD treatment, such as behavioral therapy.
Some of these stimulants that act long-lastingly like Atomoxetine (Strattera) and guanfacine-ER (Intuniv) will last throughout the night and into the morning. Some doctors suggest using them to fill an afternoon trough, so that patients do not require an additional dose at school or afterschool.
Long-acting stimulants do not increase dopamine levels in the same way as short- or intermediate-acting drugs. However, they still do so significantly. As a result, they don't cause the same kind of rebound effects that occur with shorter-acting stimulants.
Long-acting stimulants due to the potential for adverse reactions they are typically prescribed as a secondary treatment for adults suffering from ADHD and older teens. They are also used to treat certain people suffering from ADHD when other medications haven't been effective.
While medication can help improve self-control and concentration however, it's not the only option for those with ADHD. In conjunction with a healthy sleep routine and healthy eating habits, as well as other strategies for self-help, it's often possible to reduce or eliminate the need for ADHD medication.