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How Does ADHD Medication Work? When one neuron sends a message to another neuron, it makes use of neurotransmitters or chemicals. They must cross a tiny gap called the synapse. Certain ADHD medications make the transmission of these messages more effective. They may assist neurons in the release of more neurotransmitters or slow down the reuptake process (called reuptake inhibitors). Doctors begin ADHD patients with a low dose and monitor their response. They gradually increase 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 primary type of medication doctors frequently attempt to offer to children suffering from ADHD. It helps by increasing the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine that is present in kids' brains which help them focus and pay attention. It also reduces their impulsivity and hyperactivity. It is important to keep in mind that methylphenidate is a controlled substance and should only be used under a doctor's supervision. Ritalin is the most common methylphenidate drug. It is available in immediate-release tablets or chewable tablets as well as capsules. Certain versions of this medication contain the artificial sweetener aspartame, which is harmful for those suffering from phenylketonuria (an genetic condition that can cause severe intellectual impairment). Make sure you inform your doctor about any food allergies that you or your child has. Researchers have discovered that methylphenidate decreases abnormal activity in certain areas of the brain, such as the nucleus of accumbens, as well as a brain network comprised of three networks that play an important role in the process of adaptive control. This could explain why methylphenidate has been found to be among the most effective medications in treating ADHD. Stimulants can cause side effects which include a loss of appetite, sleepiness, stomach upset, headache, anxiety or agitation and the tics. These are rare but they could be serious. If you notice them you must contact your doctor immediately. You should also tell your doctor if you or your child has allergies, a history of heart disease, depression, bipolar disorder, or other mental health problems or glaucoma, a past history of seizures or stroke, or if you are taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) like isocarboxazid (Marplan), linezolid (Zyvox) and methylene blue, or phenelzine (Nardil). It is essential to take methylphenidate as prescribed by your doctor. Amphetamines Amphetamines can help you concentrate on your thoughts and avoid distractions by speeding up the communication between brain cells. They are the most common treatments for ADHD in adults and children. They increase the levels neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine in your brain. Amphetamines are available both in short-acting (immediate-release) and intermediate or long-acting varieties. They can be taken orally and also via injection. Some people are troubled by the side effects of stimulant medications, such as restlessness or difficulties sleeping, or an increased heart rate or high blood pressure. Your doctor will observe your symptoms and adjust your dosage to find the right one for you. Some people may need to take a mix of medicines to achieve the desired effects. Drugs that stimulate the brain affect two key neurotransmitters located in the prefrontal cortex. This is the part of the brain which regulates emotions and manages your behavior. These medications are used to treat a range of mental health problems such as depression, ADD/ADHD, anxiety and bipolar disorder. The most popular kinds of stimulant drugs are amphetamines and methylphenidates. The FDA has approved a variety of brand-name stimulants for treating ADHD. They are available in different forms ranging from short-acting stimulants to longer-acting stimulants – and can be taken orally, or in a injection. Amphetamines are frequently misused by teenagers who take them to keep awake and study for tests or by truck drivers and students who need an extra boost of energy to compete in endurance sports. They can also cause psychological and physical problems if used in excess, particularly with higher doses. Non-stimulant medicines are also effective in treating ADHD. They 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 cause the tics of people suffering from Tourette syndrome. Short-acting stimulants These medications are used for treating teens and children suffering from ADHD. These medications can be taken orally or applied to the skin. They are available in pills that can be swallowed or chewed and capsules that can be opened and sprinkled on food items, as well as liquids and patches. These medications are typically only available with a prescription. 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 medications alleviate symptoms for 70-80 percent of children and adults with ADHD. They can reduce the need to fidget, interrupting and make it easier to complete tasks. They also help improve relationships and academic performance. They can't correct the root issues that are the cause of ADHD. It's crucial to combine them with behavior therapy. It is also important to know that ADHD medications can cause side effects. They can make you drowsy or cranky, and can affect your sleep. These effects are usually mild and will disappear once the medicine leaves your system. Your doctor will probably suggest you take an initial dose of a small amount and then gradually increase it. They'll watch to see how the medication affects you or your child and also look for any signs of problems. Finding the right medication for your child or yourself may take some time. It is recommended to speak openly with your health care provider. They might suggest changes to how often you or your child is taking the medication, or even whether it's necessary at all. They'll also be looking to determine whether your child or you has any other medical or mental health issues. Intermediate stimulants Stimulants manage ADHD symptoms by altering the neurotransmitter activity of the brain. This boosts the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine, two substances that are important for the pre-frontal cortical area of the brain. (Think of it as “your secretary” in the executive function part of your mind). Stimulant medication is efficient for the majority of ADHD children. Your doctor will collaborate with you to figure out what kind of medication and dose is appropriate for you. You may have to try various types of medicines before finding the one that is right for you or your child. You can take these stimulants in tablet or liquid form. They work quickly and last up to four hours. There are some people who experience problems when the medication wears off, which is called the “crash effect.” It usually results in a sharp decrease in energy and can cause extreme hunger. There are also long-acting stimulants, such as dexamfetamine or lisdexamfetamine. These are more complicated and require prescriptions. They are injected in the bloodstream, and are activated in the red blood cells. It can take time to find the right medication, dosage, and schedule for your child or yourself. Your doctor will monitor how you react to the medication and watch for problems like trouble sleeping. If you or your child isn't responding well to stimulants, your doctor will also discuss non-stimulant medication. Do not stop or alter your ADHD medication without first consulting with your doctor. It's also important to tell your doctor about any over-the-counter supplements and medications you're taking, as certain of them may interact with other ADHD medications. Long-acting stimulants Stimulant medicines are effective for 70 to 80 percent of adults and children with ADHD and help cut down on hyperactivity, interruptions, fidgeting, and impulsivity. They can also improve focus and help people finish their tasks and maintain relationships. However, they might not reduce moodiness or other problematic symptoms. They can also trigger negative side effects, such as sleepiness, loss of appetite and nervousness. They can also trigger stomachaches, changes in heart rhythm, and high blood pressure. These medications work in phases aiding in the treatment of ADHD symptoms throughout the daytime. Most of these drugs begin to work within 30 to 60 minutes, and wear off after 3 to 6 hours. They can be used alone or in conjunction with other types of ADHD treatment, like behavioral therapy. Some of these stimulants that act long-lastingly, including the atomoxetine (Strattera) and guanfacine-ER (Intuniv) will last throughout the night and into the next morning. Some doctors recommend using them to fill up an afternoon trough so that patients do not require a second dose at school or after school. Long-acting stimulants do not increase dopamine levels to the same degree as intermediate- or short-acting drugs. However, they still do so significantly. Therefore, they don't trigger the same kind of rebound effects that be experienced with shorter-acting substances. Due to the possibility of adverse effects Due to the possibility of side effects, long-acting stimulants are usually prescribed as a last-line treatment for adults and older teens suffering from ADHD. They can also be used to treat some people suffering from ADHD when other medications haven't been effective. While medication can improve concentration and self-control, it's not the sole solution for those who suffer from ADHD. With adhd treatment without medication of a good night's sleeping habits, healthy diets and other self-help strategies it's often possible to decrease, or even eliminate, the need for ADHD medication.