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How Does ADHD Medication Work? When a neuron transmits a message to another, it makes use of neurotransmitters, chemicals. They need to cross a tiny gap called the synapse. Certain ADHD medications help in the passing along of these messages more efficient. They can assist neurons in the release of more neurotransmitters or slow the process of reuptake (called Reuptake inhibitors). Doctors place patients with ADHD with a small dose of medication and observe their responses. They alter the dosage over time to determine the “sweet spot” — the lowest level that shows clear improvement in symptoms with few adverse effects. Methylphenidate Methylphenidate is the most common type of medication doctors often attempt to assist children with ADHD. It increases the amount of norepinephrine as well as dopamine in kids' brains which helps them pay attention and concentrate. It also decreases their impulsivity and hyperactivity. It is important to remember that the methylphenidate drug is a controlled substance and should only be taken under the supervision of a doctor. Ritalin is the most common methylphenidate drug. It comes in immediate-release tablets or chewable tablets as well as capsules. Certain versions of the medication contain aspartame (an artificial sweetener), which can be hazardous for people suffering from phenylketonuria, an inherited condition that causes severe intellectual disabilities. Make sure you inform your provider about any food allergies that you or your child has. Researchers have discovered that methylphenidate can reduce aberrant activity, specifically in the nucleus of accumbens and also a network of brain networks involved in regulating adaptive control. This could explain why methylphenidate was found to be one of the most effective medications for treating ADHD. Side effects of stimulants include sleepiness, nausea, headaches anxiety, agitation, an agitation and tics. These are rare, but they can be serious. You should consult your physician immediately if you experience any of these symptoms. Inform your doctor about any heart disease, allergies, depression, bipolar disorder and other mental health issues, glaucoma or seizures. Also, inform them whether your child or you have a history. It is important to take methylphenidate as prescribed by your physician. Amphetamines Amphetamines can help you concentrate on your thoughts and avoid distractions by speeding up the messages between brain cells. medication for adult adhd are among the most commonly prescribed medications 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 consumed orally and also via injection. Some people are afflicted by the side effects of stimulant medications, such as restlessness or trouble sleeping, or increased heart rate and elevated blood pressure. Your doctor will observe the symptoms and alter the dosage to find the right one for you. Some people will require multiple prescriptions to get the desired results. Drugs that stimulate the brain affect two key neurotransmitters in the prefrontal cortex. This is the part of the brain which regulates emotions and manages your behavior. These drugs are prescribed to treat a variety of mental health issues such as depression, ADD/ADHD anxiety, bipolar disorder and depression. The most common types of stimulant drugs are methylphenidates and amphetamines. The FDA has approved a variety of brand-name stimulants for treating ADHD. They are available in a variety of forms, ranging from short-acting to long-acting. They are injected either orally or via injection. Students, truck drivers and teenagers who require more energy to do endurance sports may abuse amphetamines. They can also trigger psychological and physical problems if misused, especially with higher doses. ADHD can be treated with non-stimulant drugs. 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 built on the same chemical that stimulants do, however they are less likely to trigger tics in people with Tourette syndrome. Short-acting stimulants These drugs are used to treat teenagers and children with ADHD. They can be taken through the mouth or applied on the skin. They are available as pills that can be chewed, swallowed, or swallowed or chewed, capsules that can be opened and sprinkled on food items, and liquid patches. They are typically only available on prescription. These include methylphenidate, (brand names Ritalin (Concerta, Focalin (Daytrana) and amphetamines (Adderall (Dexedrine, Vyvanse)). Short-acting stimulants are fast-acting and last for about 3 to 6 hours. These medications ease the symptoms of 70% to 80% of adults and kids with ADHD. They can reduce fidgeting and interrupting, and make it easier to finish tasks. They also help improve academic performance and relationships. They can't address the root issues that are the cause of ADHD. It's important to combine the two therapies with behavior therapy. It's important to know that ADHD medications can cause negative side effects. You might feel sleepy or cranky, or even sleepy. But these effects are usually small and disappear as the medicine leaves your body. Your doctor might advise you to start with a smaller dosage and gradually increase it. They will be watching you or your child to see if there are any problems with the medication. It could take some time to find the right medication and dose for you or your child. It's best to open with your health care providers and communicate clearly. They might suggest changes to how often you or your child takes the medication, or whether it's necessary at all. They will also be looking to determine if you or your child suffer from any other mental or medical issues. 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 and norepinephrine, two chemicals that are vital to the functioning of the pre-frontal cortex region of the brain (think of it as your “secretary” in the executive functioning part of your brain). The use of stimulants is effective for most ADHD children. Your doctor will assist you to determine the right dosage and medication for your child. It is possible to try different types of medication before you find the one that is most effective for you or your child. It is possible to take stimulants with immediate release in liquid form as well as chewable tablets. These drugs work quickly and last three to four hours. Some people experience a problem when the medication wears off, which is called the “crash effect.” This usually involves an immediate drop in energy, and may cause intense hunger. There are also stimulants that act long-lastingly, such as dexamfetamine or lisdexamfetamine. These are a little more complex and require a prescription. They are injected into the bloodstream and change from inactive to active in red blood cells. It can take time to find the correct dosage, medication, and schedule for your child or yourself. Your doctor will monitor how you respond to medication and will be on the lookout for any issues such as sleep disturbances. If you or your child are not responding well to stimulants, they'll also discuss non-stimulant medication. Never stop or alter your ADHD medication without consulting your physician. It's also important to tell your doctor about any over-the counter medications and supplements you are taking, as certain medications can interact with some ADHD medications. Long-acting stimulants For 70-80% adults and children with ADHD stimulant medications work in decreasing hyperactivity, interrupting behaviour, fidgeting and impulsivity. They can also help people focus, finish tasks, and maintain relationships. However, they may not reduce moodiness or other problematic symptoms. They can also cause adverse effects such as the loss of appetite, insomnia, jitteriness, stomachaches, changes in heart rhythm and high blood pressure. The medicines work in stages, helping to treat ADHD symptoms throughout the daytime. The majority begin to work within 30 to 45 minutes, and fade in 3 to 6 hours. They can be used by themselves or in conjunction with other types of ADHD treatment, like behavioral therapy. Some of these long-acting stimulants, like atomoxetine-ER (Intuniv) and guanfacine (Strattera), can last all night and the next morning. Some doctors suggest taking them to fill an afternoon trough, so patients don't need an additional dose at school or after school. Long-acting stimulants do not increase dopamine levels as rapidly as intermediate- and short-acting drugs, yet they raise their levels significantly. They don't have the same effects on rebound as shorter-acting stimulants. Long-acting stimulants, because of the potential for adverse reactions, are usually prescribed as a secondary treatment for adults with ADHD and older teens. They can also be used to treat certain people with ADHD when other medications haven't worked. While medication can help improve concentration and self-control, it's never the sole solution for those suffering from ADHD. With the help of good eating habits, regular sleep and other self-help strategies, it is often possible to reduce, or even eliminate, the necessity for ADHD medication.