How Does ADHD Medication Work?
When one neuron transmits an electrical signal to another, it uses neurotransmitters, which are chemicals that act as. They must traverse a small gap, which is known as a synapse.
(Image: https://www.iampsychiatry.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/iampsychiatry-logo-wide.png)Certain 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 people with ADHD with a small dose of medication and observe their reactions. They alter the dosage as they go along to discover the “sweet spot” – the lowest level that shows noticeable improvement in symptoms, with very few adverse effects.
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate is the most common type of medication doctors often attempt to offer to children suffering from ADHD. It increases the amount of norepinephrine as well as dopamine in children's brains, which helps them pay attention and focus. It also reduces their impulsivity and hyperactivity. Be aware that methylphenidate should only be used under a doctor’s supervision as 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 may be hazardous for those suffering from phenylketonuria (an genetic condition that can cause severe intellectual impairment). Be sure to tell your doctor about any food allergies that you or your child may have.
Researchers have found that methylphenidate reduces aberrant activity in various parts of the brain, which includes the nucleus accumbens and a network of three brain networks that play an important role in adaptive control. This could explain why methylphenidate has been proven to be one of the most effective drugs for treating ADHD.
Stimulants can trigger side effects that can include an increase in appetite and sleepiness, stomach upset headache, anxiety, agitation, and tics. These are rare however they can be serious. You should contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of these symptoms. It is also important to inform your doctor if your child suffers from allergies or the presence of heart disease, depression, bipolar disorder or other mental health problems such as glaucoma, a history of seizures or stroke or if you're taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) like isocarboxazid (Marplan), linezolid (Zyvox), Methylene Blue, or Phenelzine (Nardil). It is essential to take your methylphenidate exactly according to the doctor's prescription.
Amphetamines
Amphetamines can help you concentrate on your thoughts and avoid distractions by speeding up the transmission of messages between brain cells. They are the most common medications used to treat ADHD in both adults and children. 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 forms. They can be consumed orally and also via injection.
Some people have a hard dealing with the adverse effects of stimulant drugs including restlessness, difficulty sleeping or an increase in heart rate and blood pressure. Your doctor will monitor your symptoms and adjust the dosage to find the best one for you. Some people may have to take a mix of medicines to achieve the desired effects.
Stimulant drugs work by affecting two essential neurotransmitters within the pre-frontal cortex. This what is the most common adhd medication prescribed the brain region which regulates your emotions and control your behavior. These medications are used to treat a range of mental health problems, including ADD/ADHD, depression anxiety, bipolar disorder and depression.
Amphetamines and methylphenidates are the most commonly used stimulant drugs. The FDA has approved dozens brand-name stimulants for treating ADHD. They are available in various types, from short-acting up to long-acting and are administered either orally or via injection. Truck drivers, students and teens who require more energy to compete in endurance sports may abuse amphetamines. They can adhd medication help with memory also trigger psychological and physical problems if used in excess, particularly with higher doses.
Non-stimulant drugs 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 function using the same chemical as stimulants, but they are less likely to cause the tics worse, which is a problem for those suffering from Tourette's syndrome.
Short-acting stimulants
These medicines are used to treat teenagers and children with ADHD. They can be taken by mouth or applied on the skin. They are available in liquids and patches as well as pills that can be swallowed or chewed. They are usually available only on prescription by a physician. They include methylphenidate (brand names Ritalin (Concerta, Focalin (Daytrana), andamphetamines, (Adderall (Dexedrine, Vyvanse)). Short-acting stimulants perform quickly and last for about 3 to 6 hours.
These medications ease symptoms for 70-80 percent of adults and children with ADHD. They can reduce fidgeting and interrupting, and make it easier to complete tasks. They can also improve relationships and academic performance. However, they aren't able to address the root causes of ADHD. It's therefore important to utilize them in conjunction with behavior therapy.
It's also important to understand that ADHD medicines have side effects. You might feel tired or cranky, or even sleepy. However, these effects are usually minor and go away as the medicine leaves your body. 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.
It may take time to find the right medication and dose for your child or yourself. It's best adhd medication for adults to open with your health care provider and communicate clearly. They may suggest changes to the frequency you or your child takes the medication, or even whether it's necessary at all adhd medications. They'll also want to know whether you or your child suffers from any other medical or mental health conditions.
Intermediate stimulants
The stimulants help to manage 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). Stimulant medication is effective for most ADHD children. Your doctor will assist you to determine the best medication and dosage for you. It is possible to try different types of medication before settling on the one that is right for you or your child.
You can take stimulants that release immediately in liquid form and chewable tablets. They begin to work quickly and last for three or four hours. Some people experience a problem after the medication has worn off, a process known as the “crash effect.” This usually involves an abrupt drop in energy, and may cause extreme hunger. Long-acting stimulants (like dexamfetamine and lisdexamfetamine) are also available. These are more complex and require prescriptions. They are injected into bloodstreams and are then converted from inactive active in red blood cells.
It can take time to find the right dosage, medication, and schedule for your child or yourself. Your doctor will track how you respond to medication and watch for problems like sleep issues. If you or your child is not responding well to stimulants, your doctor will also discuss non-stimulant medications.
Never stop or alter your ADHD medication without first consulting your physician. Tell your doctor if you use any prescription medications or supplements, since 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 behavior as well as impulsivity, fidgeting and fidgeting. They also help improve focus and help people finish their tasks and maintain relationships. They can't help with moodiness or other troublesome symptoms. They can also cause adverse effects like the loss of appetite, insomnia and jitteriness. They can also trigger stomachaches, changes in the heart rhythm and high blood pressure.
These medications work in stages to treat ADHD symptoms all day long. Most of these medications begin to work within 30 to 60 minutes, and fade after 3 to 6 hours. They can be used by themselves or in conjunction with other types of ADHD treatment, such as behavioral therapy.
Some of these long acting stimulants, like atomoxetine-ER (Intuniv) and guanfacine (Strattera), can last for a long time and even the next day. Some doctors suggest using them to fill up an afternoon trough, so patients do not require a second dose of medication at school or afterschool.
Long-acting stimulants don't 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 with shorter durations.
Long-acting stimulants, due to the possibility of adverse effects are typically prescribed as a secondary treatment for adults with ADHD and older teens. However, they can be used as a first-line treatment for those with ADHD who haven't responded to other medications.
While medication can help improve self-control and concentration, it is not the only option for those with ADHD. In conjunction with a healthy sleep routine and healthy eating habits, as well as other self-help strategies, it's often possible to eliminate or reduce the need for ADHD medication.