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How Does ADHD Medication Work? When one neuron sends a message to another neuron, it uses chemicals called neurotransmitters. These chemicals must cross the gap, which is known as a synapse. Some ADHD medications can increase the efficiency of these messages. They can either aid in the release of neurotransmitters more frequently or slow down the process of reuptake (called reuptake inhibitors). Doctors begin ADHD patients with a lower dose and monitor their reaction. They adjust the dosage gradually to find the “sweet spot,” the lowest dose that results in a significant improvement in symptoms, and has a few adverse effects. Methylphenidate Methylphenidate the first medication that doctors attempt to use to help ADHD kids, is typically Methylphenidate. It increases the amount of norepinephrine as well as dopamine in children's brains, which help them pay attention and concentrate. adhd medications uk decreases the impulsivity and hyperactivity of children. Remember that methylphenidate should only be taken with a doctor’s supervision as it is a controlled drug. The most commonly used methylphenidate medicine is Ritalin. It is available in immediate-release tablets as well as chewable tablets and capsules. Certain versions of this medication contain the artificial sweetener aspartame, which can be harmful for those suffering from phenylketonuria (an genetic condition that can cause severe intellectual impairment). Be sure to tell your doctor about any food allergies that you or your child has. Researchers have discovered that methylphenidate may reduce abnormal activity, particularly in the accumbens' nucleus as well as a network of brain networks that are involved in the process of adaptive control. This may explain why methylphenidate has been proven to be one of the most effective medications in treating ADHD. Side effects of stimulants include headaches, nausea, sleepiness anxiety, agitation, the tics and agitation. These aren't common however they can be serious. If they occur, you should call your doctor immediately. You should also tell your doctor if your child has allergies or a history of heart disease, depression, bipolar disorder, or any other mental health issues such as glaucoma, a history of stroke or seizures or if you're taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) like isocarboxazid (Marplan), linezolid (Zyvox) or the methylene blue, or phenelzine (Nardil). It is important to take methylphenidate as prescribed by your physician. Amphetamines Amphetamines boost the speed of communication between brain cells and can aid in focusing your mind and stay clear of distractions. They are the most commonly used treatments for ADHD in adults and children. They increase the level of neurotransmitters norepinephrine as well as dopamine in your brain. Amphetamines can be found in short-acting (immediate-release) and intermediate or long-acting varieties. They are available orally or through injection. Some people are afflicted by the negative side effects of stimulant medication such as restlessness or difficulty sleeping, or an increased heart rate and high blood pressure. Your doctor will observe the symptoms and adjust the dosage to find the right one for you. Some patients may need to take a mix of drugs to achieve the desired effect. The effects of stimulants are mediated by two neurotransmitters that are essential to the pre-frontal cortex, which is the brain part that regulates emotions and regulate your behavior. These medications are prescribed for a broad variety of mental health issues that include ADD/ADHD, as well as other disorders like bipolar disorder, narcolepsy, and eating disorders. The most popular kinds of stimulant drugs include methylphenidates and amphetamines. The FDA has approved dozens of brand-name stimulants for treating ADHD. They are available in various forms ranging from short-acting stimulants to longer-acting stimulants – and can be taken orally or in a injection. Amphetamines are often abused by teens who use them to stay awake and concentrate for exams, as well as by truck drivers and students that require an extra boost of energy to compete in endurance sports. They can also cause psychological and physical problems if misused, particularly in higher doses. Non-stimulant medications can also be 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 built on the same chemical that stimulants do, however they are less likely to trigger the symptoms of tics in those with Tourette syndrome. Short-acting stimulants These drugs are prescribed to treat teens and children suffering from ADHD. They can be consumed by mouth or applied on the skin. They are available in patches and liquids and pills that can be chewed or swallowed. They 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 for 3 and 6 hours. These medications alleviate symptoms in 70-80% of adults and children with ADHD. They can reduce fidgeting and interruptions, as well as making it easier to complete tasks. They can also improve academic performance and interpersonal relationships. However, they can't address the root causes of ADHD. It's therefore important to utilize them in conjunction with behavior therapy. It is important to be aware that ADHD medications can have adverse effects. You might feel tired or cranky. You may also feel sleepy. These effects are usually minor and will disappear as soon as the medication is gone from your system. Your doctor might advise you to start with a smaller dosage and gradually increase it. They will monitor you or your child to determine if there are any problems with the medication. It can take some time to find the right medication and dose for your child or yourself. It is best to communicate openly with your health care provider. They may suggest a change in the amount of medication that you or your child takes, or if any medication is required at all. They will also want to know whether you or your child have any other mental or medical ailments. Intermediate stimulants Stimulants are used to treat ADHD symptoms by altering the activities of key neurotransmitters in the brain. This boosts the levels of norepinephrine as well as dopamine, two chemicals important for the pre-frontal cortical region of the brain. (Think of it as “your secretary” in the executive part of your mind). Stimulant medication is effective for most ADHD children. Your doctor will assist you in figuring out what kind of medication and dosage is appropriate for you. You may need to test various types of medicines before finding the one that is right for you or your child. You can take stimulants that release immediately in liquid form or chewable tablets. They begin to work quickly and last for three or four hours. There are some people who experience problems after the medication has worn off, a process known as the “crash effect.” This typically results in a sharp drop in energy, and may cause extreme hunger. There are also long-acting stimulants, such as dexamfetamine or Lisdexamfetamine. These are more complex and require prescriptions. They are injected into the bloodstream and become active in red blood cell. Finding the right dosage, medication and schedule for your child or for yourself can take some time. Your doctor will monitor how you respond to medication and will be on the lookout for any issues like trouble sleeping. They will also inform you about medications that are not stimulant in the event that you or your child aren't responding well to the stimulants. You should never stop or change your ADHD medication without speaking to your doctor first. It's also important to tell your doctor about any prescription supplements or medications you're taking, as certain of them may interfere with certain ADHD medications. Long-acting stimulants For 70-80% of adults and children with ADHD stimulant medications are effective in decreasing hyperactivity, interrupting behavior such as fidgeting, impulsivity and fidgeting. They can also help people concentrate, complete tasks and maintain relationships. They may not reduce moodiness, or other troubling symptoms. They may also cause side effects such as sleepiness, loss of appetite and jitteriness. They can also cause stomachaches, changes in the heart rhythm, and high blood pressure. These medicines work in phases, helping to treat ADHD symptoms throughout the daytime. Most of these drugs begin to work within 30 to 60 minutes. They fade 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 like the atomoxetine (Strattera) and Guanfacine-ER (Intuniv), last through the night and into the morning. Some doctors suggest taking them in the afternoon to avoid patients from needing additional medication in school or in the afternoon. Long-acting stimulants don't increase dopamine levels in the same way as intermediate or short-acting drugs. However, they still have a significant effect on dopamine levels. They don't have the same effects on rebound as stimulants with shorter durations. Long-acting stimulants, because of the potential for adverse reactions they are typically prescribed as a last resort for adults with ADHD and teens who are older. But they can be used as a first-line treatment option for those with ADHD who haven't been able to respond to other medications. While medication can aid in improving concentration and self-control but it's not the only solution for those with ADHD. With the help of healthy sleeping habits, healthy diets and other self-help strategies it's possible to decrease, or even eliminate, the necessity for ADHD medication.