How Does ADHD Medication Work?

When a neuron transmits a message to another, it makes use of neurotransmitters or chemicals. These need to travel through a tiny gap known as a synapse.

Certain ADHD medications boost the effectiveness of these messages. They either help neurons release neurotransmitters faster or slow the reuptake (called reuptake inhibitors).

Doctors place patients with ADHD with a small dose of medication, and then monitor their responses. They alter the dosage over time to determine the "sweet spot" -- the lowest level that offers an immediate improvement in symptoms and minimal side effects.

Methylphenidate

Methylphenidate the first medication that doctors try to help ADHD kids, is typically Methylphenidate. It helps by increasing the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brains of children which help them focus and pay attention. It also reduces their hyperactivity and impulsivity. It is important to remember that methylphenidate must only be taken with a doctor’s supervision as it is a controlled drug.

Ritalin is the most commonly used methylphenidate drug. It's available as tablets with immediate release (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 is harmful for those suffering from Phenylketonuria (an inheritable condition that causes severe intellectual disabilities). Be sure to inform your provider about any food allergies that you or your child has.

Researchers have found that methylphenidate reduces aberrant activity in parts of the brain, such as the nucleus accumbens as well as the brain's three networks that play an important role in adaptive control. This is the reason why methylphenidate is one of the most effective medications to treat ADHD.

Side effects of stimulants include sleepiness, nausea, headaches, anxiety, agitation or the tics and agitation. These aren't common but they could be serious. If you notice them, you should call your doctor right away. You should also inform your doctor if you or your child is suffering from allergies or an underlying heart condition, depression, bipolar disorder, or other mental health problems, glaucoma, a history of seizures or strokes or if you're taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) such as isocarboxazid (Marplan) and linezolid (Zyvox), methylene blue, or phenelzine (Nardil). It is important to take your methylphenidate as prescribed by your doctor.

Amphetamines

Amphetamines can help you concentrate on your thoughts and block out distractions by speeding up the messages between brain cells. They are the most common drugs used to treat ADHD in both adults and children. They increase the amount of neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine in your brain. Amphetamines are available both in short-acting (immediate-release) and intermediate or long-acting forms. They can be taken either orally or by injection.

Some people are troubled by the adverse effects of stimulant medication, like restlessness or trouble sleeping, or increased heart rate or high blood pressure. Your doctor will observe your symptoms and adjust the dosage to determine the most effective one for you. Some patients may need to take a combination of medications to get 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 issues that include depression, ADD/ADHD anxiety, bipolar disorder and depression.

Amphetamines and methylphenidates are the most effective adhd medication for adults common stimulant drugs. The FDA has approved dozens of brand-name stimulants to treat ADHD. They are available in various forms ranging from short-acting stimulants to long-acting stimulants. They can be taken orally, or injected. Amphetamines are often abused by teenagers who prescribes adhd medication use them to keep awake and study for tests or by truck drivers and students who require extra energy for endurance sports. Amphetamines may cause physical and psychological problems when misused, particularly at higher doses.

Non-stimulant medications are also effective in treating ADHD. 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 on the same chemicals as stimulants but are less likely to make more tics, which is a problem for those with Tourette's Syndrome.

Short-acting stimulants

These medications are used to treat teens and children suffering from ADHD. These medications can be taken orally or applied to the skin. They come in pills that can be chewed, swallowed, or swallowed or chewed, capsules that can be opened and sprinkled on food items, as well as liquids and patches. They are typically only available on prescription. These include methylphenidate, (brand names Ritalin (Concerta, Focalin (Daytrana), andamphetamines, (Adderall (Dexedrine, Vyvanse)). Short-acting stimulants work fast and last for about 3 to 6 hours.

These drugs ease symptoms for 70 percent to 80% of children and adults with ADHD. They can reduce fidgeting and interrupting, and make it easier to finish tasks. They can also enhance academic performance and improve relationships. However, they can't address the underlying problems that cause ADHD. So it's important to use them in conjunction with behavioral therapy.

It's also important to understand that ADHD medications can cause side effects. You may feel drowsy or cranky. You may also feel sleepy. However, these effects are typically minor and go away as the medication is gone from your body. Your doctor will probably suggest you take an initial dose of a small amount and then increase it gradually. They will watch you or your child to determine if there are any problems with the medication.

It can take some time to find the right medication for adhd and odd and dose for your child or yourself. It's best to be open with your health care provider and communicate clearly. They might suggest changes in the frequency of medications that you or your child take or if a medication is needed at all. They'll also want to know if you or your child has any other medical or mental health conditions.

Intermediate stimulants

Stimulants work to control ADHD symptoms by altering the activity of key neurotransmitters in the brain. This boosts the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine, two substances that are important for the pre-frontal cortical region of the brain. (Think of it as "your secretary" in the executive part of your mind). Stimulant medications are efficient for the majority of ADHD children. Your doctor will assist you to determine the best dosage and medication for your child. You may have to try several different types of medication before you can find the one that works for you or your children.

You can take these stimulants in tablet or liquid form. They begin to work quickly and last for three or four hours. Some people experience a problem after the medication has worn off, a phenomenon known as the "crash effect." This typically results in an abrupt drop in energy, and may result in intense hunger. Long-acting stimulants (like dexamfetamine and lisdexamfetamine) are also available. These are more complicated and require prescriptions. They are injected in the bloodstream, and they become active in the red blood cell.

Finding the right medication, dosage and schedule for your child or yourself may take some time. Your doctor will keep track of how you respond to medication and watch for problems such as sleep disturbances. If you or your child isn't responding well to stimulants, they will also discuss non-stimulant medications.

It is not advisable to alter or stop taking your ADHD medication without consulting your doctor first. It's also important to inform your doctor about any over-the-counter supplements and what medications are prescribed for adhd (check out the post right here) you're taking, because certain of them may interact with some ADHD medications.

Long-acting stimulants

Stimulant medicines are effective for 70 to 80 percent of adults and children with ADHD, helping to cut down on hyperactivity, interruptions fidgeting, impulsivity, and fidgeting. They can also increase focus and help people finish tasks and maintain relationships. However, they may not reduce moodiness or other troublesome symptoms. They can also cause side effects such as the loss of appetite, insomnia and jitteriness. They can also trigger stomachaches, heart rhythm changes and high blood pressure.

The medicines work in stages aiding in the treatment of ADHD symptoms throughout the daytime. Most begin to take effect within 30 to 45 minutes. They disappear in 3 to 6 hours. They can be used alone or with other types of ADHD treatment, like behavioral therapy.

Some of these long acting stimulants, such as atomoxetine-ER (Intuniv) and Guanfacine (Strattera), can last for a long time and even the next day. Some doctors suggest taking them in the afternoon to prevent patients from having to take additional medication in school or after school.

Long-acting stimulants do not increase dopamine levels to the same extent as intermediate- or short-acting drugs. However, they have a significant effect on dopamine levels. They don't have the same rebound effects as stimulants that have shorter-acting effects.

Due to the potential for side effects, long-acting stimulants are typically prescribed as a last-line treatment for adults and older teens suffering from ADHD. They are also used to treat certain people suffering from ADHD if other medications haven't been effective.

While medication can aid in improving concentration and self-control, it's never the whole answer for those with ADHD. With the help of good sleeping habits, healthy diets and other self-help methods it's often possible to reduce, or even eliminate, the requirement for ADHD medication.