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How Does ADHD Medication Work? When one neuron sends signals to another, it uses neurotransmitters or chemicals. These need to travel through a tiny gap known as the synapse. Some ADHD medications make the transmission of these messages more effective. They can aid neurons in releasing more neurotransmitters or slow the reuptake process (called reuptake inhibitors). Doctors begin ADHD patients with a lower dose and monitor their reaction. They gradually adjust the dosage to find the “sweet spot,” the lowest dose that shows a noticeable improvement in symptoms and has few adverse side effects. Methylphenidate Methylphenidate is the first drug that doctors use to treat ADHD kids, is typically Methylphenidate. It is a way to increase the amount of dopamine and norepinephrine that is present in kids' brains, which helps them focus and pay attention. It also decreases their impulsivity and hyperactivity. It is important to keep in mind that the methylphenidate drug is a controlled substance and should only be used under a doctor's supervision. Ritalin is the most well-known methylphenidate drug. It is available in tablets that release immediately, chewable tablets, and capsules. Certain versions of this medication contain artificial sweeteners such as aspartame, which can be hazardous for those suffering from Phenylketonuria (an genetic condition that can cause severe intellectual disabilities). Inform medication for adult add if you or your child suffer from food allergies. Researchers have discovered that methylphenidate reduces aberrant activity, particularly in the nucleus of accumbens as well as a network of brain networks involved in the process of adaptive control. This is the reason why methylphenidate was found to be among the most effective medications for treating ADHD. The side effects of stimulants are headaches, nausea, insomnia, anxiety, agitation or an agitation and tics. They aren't common, but they could be serious. It is important to consult your doctor immediately if you experience any of these symptoms. You should also inform your doctor if you or your child suffers from allergies or the presence of heart disease or depression, bipolar disorder or any other mental health issues or glaucoma, a past history of stroke or seizures or if you're taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) like isocarboxazid (Marplan), linezolid (Zyvox), the methylene blue, or phenelzine (Nardil). It is crucial to take your methylphenidate exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Amphetamines Amphetamines can help you focus your thoughts and avoid distractions by speeding up the communication between brain cells. They are among the most commonly prescribed medications for treating ADHD in both children and adults. They boost the levels of 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 either orally or by injection. Some people have a tough time with the side effects of stimulant medications, such as sleeplessness, insomnia, or a rise in heart rate and blood pressure. Your doctor will monitor your symptoms and adjust your dosage to find the right one for you. Some people may need to take a mix of drugs to achieve the desired effects. The effects of stimulants are mediated by two important neurotransmitters in the pre-frontal cortex. It is the brain region which regulates your emotions and regulate your behavior. These medications are prescribed for a broad range of mental health disorders that include ADD/ADHD, as well as other disorders like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, narcolepsy, and eating disorders. The most popular kinds of stimulant drugs are methylphenidates and amphetamines. The FDA has approved a variety of brand-name stimulants for treating ADHD. They are available in various forms – from short-acting stimulants to long-acting stimulants. They can be taken orally, or in a injection. Amphetamines can be abused by teenagers who take them to stay awake and focus for exams, as well as by truck drivers and students who require an extra boost of energy to compete in endurance sports. They can also trigger physical and psychological problems if misused, especially with higher doses. Non-stimulant medications are also effective in treating ADHD. 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 are, but they are less likely to trigger tics in people with Tourette syndrome. Short-acting stimulants These medicines are used to treat teens and children with ADHD. They can be consumed by mouth or applied on the skin. They are available in pills that can be chewed, swallowed, or swallowed or chewed, capsules that can be opened and sprinkled onto food, and liquid and 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 3 to 6 hours. These drugs relieve symptoms in 70-80 percent of children and adults with ADHD. They can reduce fidgeting and interruptions, and make it easier to complete tasks. They can also improve academic performance and interpersonal relationships. However, they can't address the root issues that cause ADHD. It's crucial to combine them with behavioral therapy. It is important to be aware that ADHD medications can have negative side effects. You may feel drowsy or cranky. You may also feel sleepy. These effects are usually minimal, and they disappear when the medication is gone from your system. Your doctor may ask you to start with a small dosage and gradually increase it. They will monitor you or your child to determine whether there are any issues with the medication. It can take some time to determine the best medication and dose for you or your child. It is best to communicate openly with your health care provider. They may suggest a change in the frequency of medications that you or your child takes or if a medication is required at any time. They'll also be looking to determine whether you or your child has any other mental or medical health conditions. Intermediate stimulants Stimulants work to control ADHD symptoms by altering the activities of key neurotransmitters in the brain. This increases the levels of dopamine as well as norepinephrine, two chemical compounds that are essential for the functioning of the pre-frontal cortex of the brain (think of it as your “secretary” in the executive function part of your brain). Stimulant medications are effective for most ADHD children. Your doctor will assist you in figuring out what kind of medication and dose is best for you. You may have to try several different types of medication before you can find the one that works for you or your children. You can consume these stimulants in chewable tablets or liquid form. These medications work quickly and last up to four hours. Some people experience a problem when the medicine wears off, a process known as the “crash effect.” This usually involves a sharp reduction in energy levels and can cause extreme hunger. Long-acting stimulants (like dexamfetamine and lisdexamfetamine) are also available. They are more complicated and require prescriptions. They are injected into the bloodstream and change from inactive to active in red blood cells. Finding the right medication, dosage and schedule for your child or yourself may take some time. Your doctor will observe your response to the medication, and will look for any signs of trouble such as trouble sleeping. If you or your child isn't responding well to stimulants, they'll also discuss non-stimulant medication. You should never stop or change your ADHD medication without consulting your doctor first. It's also important to inform your doctor about any over-the-counter supplements and medications you're taking, because certain medications can interact with other ADHD medication. Long-acting stimulants Stimulant medication is effective for 70-80 percent of children and adults with ADHD, helping to cut down on hyperactivity, interrupting or fidgeting and impulsivity. They can also improve focus and help people finish tasks and maintain relationships. They can't help with moodiness, or other troubling symptoms. They can also cause adverse effects like the loss of appetite, insomnia and nervousness. They can also cause stomachaches, heart rhythm changes and high blood pressure. These medications work in phases, helping to treat ADHD symptoms throughout the daytime. The majority begin to work within 30 to 45 minutes, and disappear within 3 to 6 hours. They can be used in combination with other types of ADHD treatment, such as behavioral therapy. Some of these long-acting stimulants, including atomoxetine (Intuniv) and Guanfacine (Strattera) are able to last all night and the next day. Some doctors recommend using them to fill up an afternoon trough, so that patients don't need an additional dose of medication at school or after school. Long-acting stimulants don't increase dopamine levels to the same extent as intermediate- or short-acting drugs. However, they do so significantly. They don't have the same rebound effects as stimulants with shorter durations. Long-acting stimulants, due to the potential side effects, are usually prescribed as a secondary treatment for adults with ADHD and older teens. However, they can also be utilized as a first-line treatment to those with ADHD who haven't been able to respond to other medications. While medication can aid in improving concentration and self-control, it's never the sole solution for those with ADHD. With the help of healthy eating habits, regular sleep and other self-help methods it's often possible to decrease, or even eliminate, the necessity for ADHD medication.