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How Does ADHD Medication Work? When a neuron sends an information to another, it makes use of neurotransmitters or chemicals. These chemicals must cross the gap, which is known as a synapse. Some ADHD medications can increase the efficiency of these messages. They either help neurons release neurotransmitters more or slow the Reuptake (called Reuptake inhibitors). Doctors begin ADHD patients with a lower dose and monitor their response. They alter the dosage as they go along to find the “sweet spot” — the lowest level that offers noticeable improvement in symptoms, with very few adverse side effects. Methylphenidate Methylphenidate is the most common type of medication doctors often attempt to assist children with ADHD. It is a way to increase the amount of dopamine and norepinephrine that is present in kids' brains which aids them in focusing and pay attention. It also reduces their impulsivity and hyperactivity. It's important to remember that methylphenidate is a controlled drug and should only be used under a doctor's supervision. The most well-known methylphenidate drug is Ritalin. 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). Some versions of this medication contain artificial sweeteners such as aspartame, which is harmful for those suffering from phenylketonuria (an inheritable condition that causes severe intellectual impairment). Inform your doctor if or your child have food allergies. Researchers have discovered that methylphenidate reduces aberrant activity, especially in the nucleus of accumbens as well as a set of brain networks involved in regulating adaptive control. This may explain why methylphenidate has been found to be among the most effective medications in treating ADHD. Side effects of stimulants include sleepiness, nausea, headaches, anxiety, agitation or the tics and agitation. These are rare but can be serious. It is important to consult your doctor immediately if you experience any of these symptoms. Tell your doctor about any allergies, heart diseases depression, bipolar disorder and other mental health issues such as glaucoma, seizures or glaucoma. Also, tell them if your child or you have a history. It's important to take methylphenidate exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Amphetamines Amphetamines can speed up the transmission of messages between brain cells and help you focus your thoughts and stay clear of distractions. They are the most common drugs used to treat ADHD in children and adults. They increase the levels neurotransmitters, dopamine and norepinephrine, in your brain. Amphetamines are available in short-acting (immediate release) and intermediate- or long-acting forms. They can be ingested as well as via injection. Certain people are affected by the adverse effects of stimulant medication like restlessness, trouble sleeping, or increased heart rate and elevated blood pressure. Your doctor will monitor the symptoms and adjust the dosage to find the right one for you. Some people may require multiple prescriptions to achieve the desired result. Drugs that stimulate the brain affect two key 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. Amphetamines as well as methylphenidates are the most commonly used stimulant drugs. The FDA has approved dozens of brand-name stimulants for treating ADHD. They are available in different forms – from stimulants that are short-acting to long-acting stimulants – and can be taken orally or injectable. Amphetamines are frequently misused by teenagers who take them to stay awake and concentrate for exams, as well as by truck drivers and students who need more energy for endurance sports. Amphetamines can cause psychological and physical problems when they are misused, especially at higher doses. ADHD can be treated using non-stimulant medication. 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 trigger tics in people with Tourette syndrome. Short-acting stimulants These medications are prescribed to treat teens and children suffering from ADHD. They can be consumed by mouth or applied to the skin. They are available in liquids and patches as well as pills that can either be chewed or swallowed. These medications are typically only available through prescription. They include methylphenidate (brand names Ritalin (Concerta, Focalin (Daytrana) and amphetamines (Adderall (Dexedrine, Vyvanse)). Short-acting stimulants are fast acting and last for 3 and 6 hours. These medications ease symptoms for 70-80 percent of children and adults with ADHD. They help reduce fidgeting and interruptions, and make it easier to finish tasks. They also help improve relationships and academic performance. However, they can't address the underlying problems that cause ADHD. It's important to combine them with behavioral therapy. It's important to understand that ADHD medications can cause side effects. You might feel sleepy, cranky, or sleepless. These effects are usually minor and will disappear as soon as the medicine leaves your system. Your doctor might advise you to start with a smaller dosage and gradually increase it. They will monitor you or your child closely to determine whether there are any issues with the medication. Finding the right medication for your child or yourself could take some time. It is best to be honest with your health care provider and communicate clearly. They might suggest changes in the amount of medication that you or your child takes or if a medication is needed at all. They will also want to know whether you or your child have any other mental or medical issues. Intermediate stimulants The stimulants help to manage ADHD symptoms by altering the activity 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). Stimulant medication is efficient for the majority of ADHD children. Your doctor will assist you in figuring out which type of medication and dose is best for you. It is possible to try different kinds of medications before settling on the one that works best for you or your child. These stimulants can be taken in tablet or liquid form. They perform quickly and last for up to four hours. The “crash effect” occurs when the medication wears off. This is evident by an abrupt decrease in energy levels and an intense hunger. Long-acting stimulants (like dexamfetamine and lisdexamfetamine) are also available. They are more complex and require a prescription. They are injected into the bloodstream and then change from inactive to active in red blood cells. It takes time to determine the correct dosage, medication, and schedule for you or your child. Your doctor will be monitoring your response to the medication and look for any problems such as trouble sleeping. If you or your child isn't responding well to stimulants, they'll also discuss non-stimulant medication. It is not advisable to discontinue or alter your ADHD medication without talking to your doctor first. Inform your doctor if you take any prescription drugs or supplements, as they may interact with ADHD medications. Long-acting stimulants Stimulant medication is effective for 70-80 percent of adults and children with ADHD, helping to cut down on hyperactivity, interruptions or fidgeting and impulsivity. They can also help people focus, finish tasks, and maintain relationships. However, they might not alleviate moodiness or other irritable symptoms. And they may cause adverse effects such as loss of appetite, insomnia, jitteriness, stomachaches, changes in heart rhythm, and high blood pressure. These medications work in phases to treat ADHD symptoms throughout the day. The majority begin to work within 30 to 45 minutes. They disappear within 3 to 6 hours. They can be utilized in combination with other types of ADHD treatment like 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 recommend using them to fill an afternoon trough so that patients don't need an additional dose of medication during school or after school. adult adhd treatments www.iampsychiatry.uk -acting stimulants do not increase dopamine levels in the same way as intermediate- or short-acting drugs. However, they increase dopamine levels significantly. They don't have the same rebound effects as stimulants that have shorter-acting effects. Because of the potential for side effects Due to the possibility of side effects, long-acting stimulants are usually prescribed as a second-line treatment for older teens suffering from ADHD. They are also used to treat certain people with ADHD in cases where other medications haven't been effective. While medication can aid in improving concentration and self-control, it's not the only solution for people with ADHD. In conjunction with good sleep habits and healthy eating habits, along with other strategies for self-help it's possible to eliminate or reduce the necessity for ADHD medication.