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How Does ADHD Medication Work? When one neuron sends signals to another, it utilizes neurotransmitters, which are chemicals that act as. These chemicals must travel through a small gap that is called a synapse. Some ADHD medications increase the efficiency of these messages. They can either aid in the release of neurotransmitters faster or slow the process of reuptake (called reuptake inhibiters). Doctors start ADHD patients with a low dose and monitor their response. They gradually increase the dosage to find the “sweet spot,” the lowest dose that shows a noticeable improvement in symptoms and has few adverse effects. Methylphenidate Methylphenidate is the first type of medication doctors frequently try to help kids with ADHD. It increases the amount of norepinephrine and dopamine in children's brains, which helps them pay attention and concentrate. It also reduces their hyperactivity and impulsivity. It is important to remember that methylphenidate is a controlled substance and should only be used under the supervision of a doctor. The most well-known methylphenidate drug is Ritalin. It is available in immediate-release tablets or chewable tablets as well as capsules. Some versions of this medication contain artificial sweeteners such as aspartame, which can be harmful for those suffering from phenylketonuria (an inherited condition that causes severe intellectual disability). Inform your doctor if you or your child have food allergies. Researchers have discovered that methylphenidate can reduce abnormal activity in certain areas of the brain, which includes the nucleus accumbens as well as the brain's three networks that play a role in the process of adaptive control. This may explain why methylphenidate was found to be among the most effective medications in treating ADHD. The effects of stimulants can be averted that include an increase in appetite and sleepiness, stomach upset, headache, anxiety or anxiety, and the tics. They aren't common, but they could be serious. It is important to consult your doctor immediately if you notice any of these symptoms. It is also important to inform your doctor if you or your child suffers from allergies, a history of heart disease, depression, bipolar disorder, or any other mental health issues, glaucoma, a history of seizures or strokes or if you are taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) such as isocarboxazid (Marplan) or linezolid (Zyvox), Methylene Blue, or Phenelzine (Nardil). It is crucial to take your methylphenidate exactly in accordance with the prescription of your doctor. Amphetamines Amphetamines can help you focus on your thoughts and ignore distractions by speeding up the messages between brain cells. They are the most frequently prescribed medications for treating ADHD in both children and adults. They increase the levels neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine in your brain. Amphetamines can be found in short-acting (immediate release) and intermediate- or long-acting form. They can be taken orally or by injection. Some people have a hard dealing with the adverse effects of stimulant medication including insomnia, restlessness, or an increase in heart rate and blood pressure. Your doctor will be able to monitor the symptoms and adjust the dosage to find the best one for you. Some patients may need to take a mixture of drugs to achieve the desired effect. Stimulant drugs affect two neurotransmitters that are essential to the pre-frontal cortex. This is the brain region which regulates your emotions and control your behavior. They are prescribed to treat a wide range of mental health disorders such as ADD/ADHD and disorders like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, narcolepsy and eating disorders. Amphetamines as well as methylphenidates are the most commonly used stimulant drugs. The FDA has approved dozens of brand-name stimulants to treat ADHD. They are available in various forms, from short-acting to long-acting. They are injected either orally or via injection. Amphetamines can be abused by teenagers who take them to keep awake and concentrate for tests or by truck drivers and students who require more energy for endurance sports. They can also trigger physical and mental problems when misused, especially with higher doses. Non-stimulant medications are also effective in treating ADHD. These include atomoxetine 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 are, but they are less likely to exacerbate tics in people with Tourette syndrome. adhd adult medication -acting stimulants These medications are used to treat teens and children with ADHD. These medications can be taken orally or applied to the skin. They are available in patches and liquids, as well as pills that can be swallowed or chewed. They are typically only available on prescription by a physician. These include methylphenidate (brand names Ritalin, Concerta, Focalin, Daytrana), and amphetamines (Adderall, Dexedrine, Vyvanse). Short-acting stimulants work fast and last from 3 to 6 hours. These medications alleviate symptoms for 70% to 80% of children and adults with ADHD. They help reduce fidgeting and interrupting, and make it easier to finish tasks. They can also improve relationships and academic performance. However, they aren't able to address the underlying problems that cause ADHD. Therefore, it's crucial to use them in conjunction with behavioral therapy. It's also important to recognize that ADHD medications can have adverse effects. You might feel tired, cranky, or sleepless. These effects are usually minor and will disappear when the medicine leaves your system. Your doctor may suggest you take an initial dose of a small amount and then increase it gradually. They'll observe how the medication affects your child or you and check for any issues. Finding the appropriate medication for your child or yourself may take some time. It is best to be honest with your health care providers and communicate clearly. They may suggest changes to the frequency you or your child is taking the medication, or even whether it's necessary at all. They'll also be looking to determine whether you or your child is suffering from any other medical or mental health issues. Intermediate stimulants Stimulants work to control ADHD symptoms by altering the activities of key neurotransmitters in the brain. This can increase the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine, two chemical substances that are crucial for the pre-frontal cortex area of the brain. (Think of it as “your secretary” in the executive part of your brain). Most kids who suffer from ADHD respond well to stimulant medication. Your doctor will help you determine the best dosage and medication for your child. You may need to try various types of medications before you can find the one that is right for you or your children. You can take these stimulants in chewable tablets or liquid form. These medications work quickly and last up to four hours. There are some people who experience problems when the medicine wears off, a phenomenon known as the “crash effect.” This typically results in a sharp decrease in energy and can result in intense hunger. There are also stimulants that act long-lastingly like dexamfetamine and lisdexamfetamine. They are more complicated and require prescriptions. They are injected in the bloodstream and become active in red blood cells. It takes time to determine the right dosage, medication, and schedule for you or your child. Your doctor will track how you respond to medication and will be on the lookout for any issues such as sleep disturbances. They will also inform you about medications that are not stimulant in the event that you or your child aren't responding well to the stimulants. Never stop or alter your ADHD medications without first consulting with your doctor. Inform your doctor if use any prescription medications or supplements, as some could interact with ADHD medications. Long-acting stimulants For 70-80% of adults and children with ADHD stimulant medications are effective in decreasing hyperactivity, interrupting behaviour, fidgeting and impulsivity. They also aid people to concentrate, complete tasks, and maintain relationships. However, they aren't able to reduce moodiness or other problematic symptoms. And they may cause adverse effects such as loss of appetite, insomnia nausea, jitteriness changes in heart rhythm and high blood pressure. These medications work in stages to treat ADHD symptoms throughout the day. Most of these drugs start to work within 30 to 60 minutes and disappear after 3 to 6 hours. They can be used on their own or in conjunction with other forms of ADHD treatment, like behavioral therapy. Some of these long-acting stimulants such as the 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 a second dose of medication during school or after school. Long-acting stimulants don't increase dopamine levels in the same way as intermediate or short-acting drugs. However, they do so significantly. They don't have the same rebound effects as shorter-acting stimulants. Long-acting stimulants, because of the potential for adverse reactions they are typically prescribed as a secondary treatment for adults with ADHD and teens who are older. They can also be employed to treat a few patients with ADHD in cases where other medications haven't helped. While medication can improve concentration and self-control, it's never the whole answer for those with ADHD. Combined with a healthy sleeping routine and healthy eating habits, along with other self-help strategies, it's often possible to eliminate or reduce the need for ADHD medication.