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How Does ADHD Medication Work? When a neuron transmits a message to another, it makes use of neurotransmitters or chemicals. These need to traverse a small gap, which is known as a synapse. Some ADHD medications can make the transmission of these messages more efficient. They may help neurons release more neurotransmitters or slow the process of reuptake (called Reuptake inhibitors). Doctors place patients with ADHD with a low dose of medication and then observe their responses. They alter the dosage as they go along to determine a “sweet place” -the lowest dose that offers an immediate improvement in symptoms and very few adverse side effects. Methylphenidate Methylphenidate, the first medication that doctors attempt to use to help ADHD children, is usually Methylphenidate. It increases the amount of norepinephrine as well as dopamine in kids' brains which help them pay attention and focus. It also decreases their impulsivity and hyperactivity. Be aware that methylphenidate should only be taken with a doctor’s supervision as it is a controlled drug. Ritalin is the most commonly used methylphenidate drug. It's available in immediate-release tablets (Ritalin, Concerta, or Quillichew ER) chewable tablets with a long-acting mechanism (Cotempla XR-ODT or Adhansia XR) or long-acting capsules (Adhansia PM or Jornay PM). Some versions of this medication contain artificial sweeteners such as aspartame, which may be dangerous for people with Phenylketonuria (an inherited condition that causes severe intellectual disability). Be sure to tell your provider about any food allergies you or your child has. Researchers have discovered that methylphenidate reduces aberrant activity, especially in the nucleus of accumbens as well as a set of brain networks that are involved in adaptive control. adhd in adults medication may explain why methylphenidate is among the most effective medications for treating ADHD. Stimulants can trigger side effects that include an increase in appetite and sleepiness, stomach upset headache, anxiety, disturbances, and antics. They aren't common, but they could be serious. If you experience any of them you must contact your doctor right away. Inform your doctor about any heart disease, allergies, depression, bipolar disorder and other mental health issues, glaucoma or seizures. Also, tell them that you or your child have a history of. It is crucial to take your methylphenidate according to the doctor's prescription. Amphetamines Amphetamines can help you focus on your thoughts and avoid distractions by speeding up the communication between brain cells. They are the most common treatments for ADHD in both adults and children. They increase the level of neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine in your brain. Amphetamines are available in both short-acting (immediate-release) and intermediate or long-acting forms. They are available orally or by injection. Some people have a difficult dealing with the adverse effects of stimulant medication including restlessness, difficulty sleeping or increased blood pressure and heart rate. Your doctor will observe your symptoms and adjust your dosage to find the right one for you. Some patients may need to take a mix of medicines to achieve the desired effects. Stimulant drugs affect two important neurotransmitters in the pre-frontal cortex. This is the brain region that helps regulate emotions and regulate your behavior. They are prescribed for a broad variety of mental health issues, including ADD/ADHD and other conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, narcolepsy, and eating disorders. Amphetamines and methylphenidates are among the most commonly used stimulant drugs. The FDA has approved dozens brand-name stimulants for treating ADHD. They come in different types, from short-acting up to long-acting. They are injected either orally or via injection. Amphetamines are often abused by teenagers who take them to keep awake and study for tests, or by truck drivers and students who require extra energy for endurance sports. Amphetamines can trigger psychological and physical problems when used improperly, especially in higher doses. ADHD can be treated using non-stimulant medications. 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 made up of the same chemical that stimulants do, but they are less likely to cause the symptoms of tics in those with Tourette syndrome. Short-acting stimulants These drugs are used to treat children and teens with ADHD. These medications can be taken orally or applied to 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 items, and liquid patches. These drugs are usually only available on prescription. These include methylphenidate, (brand names Ritalin (Concerta, Focalin (Daytrana), andamphetamines, (Adderall (Dexedrine, Vyvanse)). Short-acting stimulants have a rapid effect and last for 3 and 6 hours. These drugs ease symptoms for 70 percent to 80% children and adults with ADHD. They help reduce fidgeting and interruptions, as well as making it easier to complete tasks. They can also improve academic performance and relationships. However, they aren't able to address the root causes of ADHD. So it's important to use them in conjunction with behavior therapy. It's important to understand that ADHD medication can cause adverse 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 may recommend taking an initial dose of a small amount and then gradually increase the dosage. They'll observe how the medication affects your child or you and look for any problems. Finding the appropriate medication for your child or yourself might take some time. It is best to communicate openly with your health professional. They may suggest changes in the frequency of medications that you or your child takes or if any medication is needed at any time. They'll also want to know whether you or your child is suffering from any other mental or medical health issues. Intermediate stimulants The stimulants help to manage ADHD symptoms by altering the activity of key neurotransmitters in the brain. This can 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 function part of your brain). The majority of children who suffer from ADHD respond well to stimulant medication. Your doctor can help you determine the right dosage and medication for you. It is possible to try different kinds of medications before you find the one that works best for you or your child. These stimulants can be taken in liquid or chewable tablet form. These drugs are quick-acting and last for up to four hours. Some people have a problem after the medication has worn off, a phenomenon known as the “crash effect.” This usually involves an abrupt decrease in energy and can result in intense hunger. There are also stimulants that act long-lastingly like dexamfetamine or Lisdexamfetamine. They are more complicated and require a prescription. They are injected into the bloodstream and are activated in the red blood cells. It takes time to find the right medication, dosage, and schedule for your child or yourself. Your doctor will be monitoring your response to the medication, and will look for any signs of trouble such as trouble sleeping. They will also advise you about non-stimulant medication if you or your child are not responding well to the stimulants. You shouldn't stop or change your ADHD medication without speaking to your doctor first. Inform your doctor if you use any prescription medications or supplements, since some can interact with ADHD medications. Long-acting stimulants Stimulant medication is effective for 70-80 percent of adults and children with ADHD and help cut down on hyperactivity, interrupting, fidgeting, and impulsivity. They also aid people to concentrate, complete tasks, and maintain relationships. However, they may not alleviate moodiness or other irritable symptoms. And they can have side effects like loss of appetite, insomnia nausea, jitteriness changes in heart rhythm, and high blood pressure. These drugs work in phases to treat ADHD symptoms throughout the day. The majority of these medications begin to work in 30 to 60 minutes, and wear off after 3 to 6 hours. They can be used alone or with other types of ADHD treatment, like behavioral therapy. Some of these stimulants that act long-lastingly such as the atomoxetine (Strattera) and Guanfacine-ER (Intuniv) will last throughout the night and into the next morning. Some doctors suggest taking them to fill an afternoon trough, so patients do not require an additional dose at school or in the afternoon. Long-acting stimulants do not increase dopamine levels as dramatically as short- and intermediate-acting drugs, but they do increase them significantly. They don't have the same rebound effects as shorter-acting stimulants. Long-acting stimulants due to the potential side effects they are typically prescribed as a second treatment for adults suffering from ADHD and teens who are older. However, they can be used as a first-line treatment to those with ADHD who haven't been able to respond to other medications. Although medication can aid in improving concentration and self control, it is not the only option 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 need for ADHD medication.