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How Does ADHD Medication Work? When one neuron sends a message to another, it uses chemicals called neurotransmitters. They need to traverse a small gap, which is known as a synapse. Some ADHD medications can increase the efficiency of these messages. They either help neurons release more neurotransmitters or slow the process of reuptake (called reuptake inhibitors). Doctors start people with ADHD with a low dose of medication, and then monitor their responses. They alter the dosage over time to discover an “sweet place” -the lowest dosage that shows an immediate improvement in symptoms and very few side effects. Methylphenidate Methylphenidate is the most common type of medication doctors often attempt to offer to children suffering from ADHD. It helps by increasing the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brains of children, which helps them focus and pay attention. It also decreases their hyperactivity and impulsivity. Be aware that methylphenidate should only be taken with an appointment with a doctor since it is a controlled drug. The most common methylphenidate medication is Ritalin. It is available in tablets that release immediately or chewable tablets as well as capsules. Some versions of this medication contain the artificial sweetener aspartame, which can be hazardous for those suffering from Phenylketonuria (an inherited condition that causes severe intellectual impairment). Inform your doctor if you or your child have food allergies. Researchers have discovered that methylphenidate decreases abnormal activity in parts of the brain, including the nucleus accumbens as well as a network of three brain networks that play a role in the process of adaptive control. This could explain why methylphenidate has been proven to be among the most effective medications for treating ADHD. Stimulants can cause side effects that can include an increase in appetite, sleepiness, stomach upset, headache, anxiety or anxiety and tics. These are rare but can be serious. If you experience any of them you must contact your doctor right away. You should also inform your doctor if your child is suffering from allergies or the presence of heart disease, depression, bipolar disorder or other mental health conditions, glaucoma, a history of seizures or strokes, or if you are taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) such as isocarboxazid (Marplan) and linezolid (Zyvox), 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 on your thoughts and block out distractions by speeding up the transmission of messages between brain cells. They are the most common treatments for ADHD in adults and children. They increase the level of neurotransmitters norepinephrine as well as dopamine in your brain. Amphetamines are available in both short-acting (immediate-release) and intermediate or long-acting versions. They can be taken orally as well as via injection. Some people have a hard dealing with the adverse effects of stimulant medications like sleeplessness, insomnia, or an increase in blood pressure and heart rate. Your doctor will be able to monitor the symptoms and alter the dosage to find the right one for you. Some people may require multiple medications to get the desired results. Drugs that stimulate the brain affect two key neurotransmitters located in the prefrontal cortex. This is the part of the brain which regulates emotions and manages your behavior. These drugs are prescribed for a wide variety of mental health issues such as ADD/ADHD and disorders like bipolar disorder, narcolepsy, and eating disorders. The most commonly used types of stimulant drugs are amphetamines and methylphenidates. The FDA has approved a variety of brand-name stimulants to treat ADHD. They are available in various forms, from short-acting to long-acting, and are administered either orally or via injection. Amphetamines are often abused by teenagers who use them to stay awake and study for tests or by truck drivers and students who require an extra boost of energy to compete in endurance sports. Amphetamines can cause physical and psychological problems when used improperly, especially in higher doses. ADHD is treatable with non-stimulant medications. 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 based on the same chemicals that stimulants do, but they are less likely to exacerbate the symptoms of tics in those with Tourette syndrome. Short-acting stimulants These medications are used to treat teens and children suffering from ADHD. They can be taken by mouth or applied to the skin. They are available in patches and liquids as well as pills that can be chewed or swallowed. These drugs are usually only available on prescription. These include methylphenidate (brand names Ritalin, Concerta, Focalin, Daytrana), and amphetamines (Adderall, Dexedrine, Vyvanse). Iam Psychiatry -acting stimulants work fast and last for about 3 to 6 hours. These medications ease symptoms in 70-80% of adults and children with ADHD. They help reduce fidgeting and interrupting, and make it easier to finish tasks. They can also improve academic performance and relationships. They can't correct the root issues that are the cause of ADHD. It's important to combine the two therapies with behavior therapy. It's also important to recognize that ADHD medicines have side effects. You might feel tired or cranky, or even sleepy. However, these effects are typically minimal and will disappear once the medicine is eliminated from your body. Your doctor might advise you to start with a small dose and increase it gradually. They will watch you or your child closely to determine if there are any problems with the medication. It can take some time to find the right medication and dose for your child or yourself. It's best to open with your health care team and communicate clearly. They might suggest an increase in the amount of medication that you or your child takes, or if any medication is needed at all. They'll also be looking to determine whether your child or you is suffering from any other mental or medical health conditions. Intermediate stimulants Stimulants manage ADHD symptoms by altering the neurotransmitter activity of the brain. This can increase the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine. These two chemicals are vital to the functioning of the pre-frontal cortex area of the brain (think of it as your “secretary” in the executive functioning area of your brain). The majority of kids who suffer from ADHD respond well to stimulant medications. Your doctor will assist you in figuring out what kind of medication and dose is appropriate for you. You may need to try several different types of medication before you can find the one that is right for you or your children. It is possible to take stimulants with immediate release in liquid form and chewable tablets. These drugs start working quickly and last for three to four hours. There are some people who experience problems when the medication wears off, which is called the “crash effect.” This typically results in an immediate reduction in energy levels and can result in intense hunger. There are also long-acting stimulants like dexamfetamine and Lisdexamfetamine. These are more complex and require prescriptions. They are injected into the bloodstream and become active in the red blood cells. It can take time to find the correct dosage, medication and schedule for your child or yourself. Your doctor will monitor your response to the medication and look for any issues such as trouble sleeping. If you or your child isn't responding well to stimulants, they will also discuss non-stimulant medications. You shouldn't discontinue or alter your ADHD medication without talking to your doctor first. It's also important to inform your doctor about any over-the counter supplements or medications you're taking, as certain of them may interact with some ADHD medication. Long-acting stimulants For 70-80% adults and children with ADHD stimulant medication is effective in decreasing hyperactivity, interrupting behavior, fidgeting and impulsivity. They can also help people focus, finish tasks, and maintain relationships. They may not reduce moodiness or other troublesome symptoms. And they can have negative effects, such as loss of appetite, insomnia stomachaches, jitteriness, changes in heart rhythm, and high blood pressure. These medications work in phases to treat ADHD symptoms all day long. Most of these drugs begin to work within 30 to 60 minutes and disappear after 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, including the atomoxetine (Strattera) and Guanfacine-ER (Intuniv) are able to last through the night and into the next morning. Some doctors suggest taking them in the afternoon, to avoid patients from requiring additional medication during school or after school. Long-acting stimulants do not increase dopamine levels as rapidly as short- and intermediate-acting drugs, yet they boost them significantly. Therefore, they don't produce the same kind of rebound effects that be experienced with shorter-acting substances. Due to the potential for side effects Because of the potential for side effects, long-acting stimulants are generally prescribed as a last-line treatment for older teens with ADHD. However, they can also be utilized as a first-line treatment option for certain people with ADHD who haven't been able to respond to other medications. While medication can help improve self-control and concentration but it's not the only option for those with ADHD. When combined with a healthy sleeping routine and healthy eating habits, as well as other strategies for self-help it's possible to decrease or eliminate the necessity for ADHD medication.