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How Does ADHD Medication Work?

When one neuron sends signals to another, it makes use of neurotransmitters or chemicals. These chemicals must travel through a small gap that is called a synapse.

Some ADHD medications help in the transmission of these messages more efficient. They either help neurons release neurotransmitters faster or slow the reuptake (called reuptake inhibitors).

Doctors begin ADHD patients on a low dosage and monitor their response. They adjust the dosage over time to determine a "sweet spot" -the lowest dosage that shows clear improvement in symptoms with very few side effects.

Methylphenidate

Methylphenidate, the first medication that doctors attempt to use to help ADHD children, is usually Methylphenidate. It works by increasing the amount of dopamine and norepinephrine in kids' brains, which helps them focus and pay attention. It also reduces their impulsivity and hyperactivity. It is important to remember that the methylphenidate drug is a controlled substance and should only be used under the supervision of a physician.

Ritalin is the most well-known methylphenidate drug. It comes in immediate-release tablets, chewable tablets, and capsules. Certain versions of the medication contain aspartame (an artificial sweetener) which is dangerous for those with phenylketonuria, an inherited condition which causes severe intellectual impairment. Be sure to inform your doctor about any food allergies you or your child suffers from.

Researchers have discovered that methylphenidate can reduce aberrant activity, specifically in the accumbens nucleus and also a network of brain networks involved in regulating adaptive control. This is the reason why methylphenidate is considered to be one of the most effective drugs to treat ADHD.

Stimulants can trigger side effects that include loss of appetite, sleepiness, stomach upset, headache, anxiety or disturbances, and the tics. These are rare but can be serious. If you experience any of them, you should call your doctor immediately. You should also tell your doctor if you or your child has allergies, the presence of heart disease, bipolar disorder, depression or other mental health conditions or glaucoma, a past history of seizures or strokes or if you are taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) like isocarboxazid (Marplan) and linezolid (Zyvox) or Methylene Blue, or Phenelzine (Nardil). It is important to take your methylphenidate as prescribed by your doctor.

Amphetamines

Amphetamines speed up messages between brain cells and can help you concentrate your thoughts and avoid distractions. They are the most frequently prescribed medications to treat ADHD in 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 taken either orally or via injection.

Some people have a difficult dealing with the adverse effects of stimulant medication, such as insomnia, restlessness, or a rise in blood pressure and heart rate. Your doctor will be able to monitor your symptoms and adjust the dosage to find the best one for you. Some people will require multiple prescriptions to achieve the desired outcome.

Stimulant drugs affect two important neurotransmitters in the prefrontal cortex. This is the region of the brain that regulates emotions and governs your behavior. They are prescribed for a broad range of mental health conditions, including ADD/ADHD and other conditions such as bipolar disorder, narcolepsy and eating disorders.

Amphetamines as well as methylphenidates are the most common stimulant drugs. The FDA has approved dozens of brand-name stimulants for treating ADHD. They are available in different forms ranging from short-acting stimulants to long-acting stimulants - and can be consumed orally or in a injection. Amphetamines are frequently misused by teens who use them to stay awake and concentrate for exams, as well as by truck drivers and students who need more energy for endurance sports. They can also cause physical and mental problems when misused, especially with higher doses.

ADHD is treatable with non-stimulant drugs. 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 function using the same chemical as stimulants but are less likely to make more tics, which is a problem for those with Tourette's Syndrome.

Short-acting stimulants

These medicines are used for treating adolescents and children with ADHD. They can be taken through the mouth or applied to the skin. They are available as pills that can be chewed or swallowed and capsules that can be opened and sprinkled on food, and liquid and patches. They are typically only available with a prescription from a doctor. These include methylphenidate (brand names Ritalin, Concerta, Focalin, Daytrana), and amphetamines (Adderall, Dexedrine, Vyvanse). Short-acting stimulants are fast-acting and last from 3 to 6 hours.

These drugs relieve symptoms for 70-80% of adults and children with ADHD. They reduce fidgeting and interrupting, making it easier for you to complete tasks. They can also enhance academic performance and improve relationships. But they don't solve the root causes of ADHD. It's crucial to combine the two therapies with behavior therapy.

It is important to be aware that ADHD medication can cause side effects. They can make you drowsy or cranky, and may interfere with your sleep. But these effects are usually minimal and will disappear once the medicine is eliminated from your body. Your doctor might suggest you take only a small amount at first and then gradually increase the dosage. They'll monitor how the medication affects you or your child and also look for any signs of problems.

Finding the best medication for you or your children may take some time. It is important to communicate openly with your health care team. They might suggest changes to the frequency you or your child is taking the medication, or when it's required at all. They'll also be looking to determine whether your child or you 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 helps increase the levels of dopamine as well as norepinephrine, two chemicals that are essential for 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). Stimulant medications are effective for the majority of ADHD children. Your doctor will assist you in figuring out what kind of medication and dosage is best for you. You may need to try various kinds of medication before you can find the one that is suitable for you or your children.

It is possible to take stimulants with immediate release in liquid form or chewable tablets. These drugs start working quickly and last for three to four hours. The "crash effect" is a sign that the medicine wears out. This is characterized by rapid decrease in energy levels and intense hunger. There are also long-acting stimulants, such as dexamfetamine or Lisdexamfetamine. These are more complicated and require prescriptions. They are injected into the bloodstream, and they are activated in the red blood cell.

It takes time to determine the right dosage, medication and schedule for your child or you. Your doctor will keep track of how you react to the medication and watch for problems such as sleep disturbances. If you or your child are not responding well to stimulants, they will also discuss non-stimulant medication.

Never stop or change your ADHD medication without consulting your physician. It's also important to tell your doctor about any prescription medications and supplements you are taking, because some of them can interact with some ADHD medication.

Long-acting stimulants

For 70-80% adults and children with ADHD stimulant medications are effective in reducing hyperactivity, interrupting behavior, fidgeting and impulsivity. They also aid people to concentrate, complete tasks, and maintain relationships. However, they may not reduce moodiness or other problematic symptoms. They may also cause side effects such as loss of appetite, insomnia and nervousness. They may also cause stomachaches, changes here in the heart rhythm, and high blood pressure.

These medications work in stages to treat ADHD symptoms throughout the day. 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 with other types of ADHD treatment, like behavioral therapy.

Some of these long acting stimulants, including atomoxetine (Intuniv) and guanfacine (Strattera) can be used all night long and last until the next day. Some doctors suggest using them to fill an afternoon trough, so that patients do not require an additional dose at school or afterschool.

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

Long-acting stimulants, because of the potential for adverse reactions are typically prescribed as a second treatment for adults suffering from ADHD and older teens. However, they can be used as a first-line treatment for certain people with ADHD who haven't been able to respond to other medications.

While medication can help improve concentration and self-control, it is not the only solution for those with ADHD. With the help of healthy sleeping habits, healthy diets, and other self-help techniques, it is often possible to decrease, or even eliminate, the requirement for ADHD medication.