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How Does ADHD Medication Work? When a neuron transmits a message to another, it uses chemicals called neurotransmitters. They need to travel through a tiny gap known as a synapse. Certain ADHD medications increase the efficiency of these messages. They may help neurons release neurotransmitters more frequently or slow down the reuptake (called Reuptake inhibitors). Doctors put patients suffering from ADHD with a small dose of medication and then observe their responses. They adjust the dosage gradually to discover the “sweet spot,” the lowest dose that produces a clear improvement in symptoms and produces fewer adverse effects. Methylphenidate Methylphenidate is the most common kind of medication that doctors typically try to help kids with ADHD. It increases the amount of norepinephrine and dopamine in children's brains, which help them pay attention and stay focused. It also reduces their hyperactivity and impulsivity. It's important to remember that the methylphenidate drug is a controlled substance and should only be taken under the supervision of a physician. Ritalin is the most well-known methylphenidate drug. It is available in tablets that release immediately (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 the medication contain aspartame (an artificial sweetener), which can be dangerous for those with the genetic condition phenylketonuria which causes severe intellectual impairment. Inform your doctor if you or your child have food allergies. Researchers have discovered that methylphenidate may reduce abnormal activity, particularly in the accumbens' nucleus as well as a network of brain networks involved in the process of adaptive control. This could explain why methylphenidate has been found to be one of the most effective medications in treating ADHD. Stimulants can trigger side effects that can include the loss of appetite, sleepiness, stomach upset headache, anxiety, disturbances, and antics. These are rare but can be serious. If they occur you should contact your doctor immediately. You should also inform your doctor if you or your child suffers from allergies, a history of heart disease, depression, bipolar disorder or any other mental health issues or glaucoma, a past history of seizures or stroke or if you are taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) like isocarboxazid (Marplan) or linezolid (Zyvox), methylene blue, or phenelzine (Nardil). It is essential to take your methylphenidate exactly according to the doctor's prescription. Amphetamines Amphetamines boost the speed of communication between brain cells and help you focus your thoughts and stay clear of distractions. They are among the most popular drugs used to treat ADHD in both adults and children. They increase the levels neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine in your brain. Amphetamines can be found in short-acting (immediate release) and intermediate- or long-acting forms. They can be consumed orally or by injection. Certain people are affected by the side effects of stimulant medications, like restlessness or trouble sleeping, or increased heart rate or high blood pressure. Your doctor will monitor your symptoms and adjust the dose to find the best one for you. Some patients may require multiple prescriptions to get the desired results. Stimulant drugs affect two important neurotransmitters in the pre-frontal cortex. This is the brain region that helps regulate emotions and regulate your behavior. These medications are prescribed for a broad range of mental health disorders, including ADD/ADHD and other conditions such as bipolar disorder, narcolepsy, and eating disorders. Amphetamines and methylphenidates are the most common stimulant drugs. The FDA has approved a variety of brand-name stimulants for treating ADHD. They are available in various forms, ranging from short-acting to long-acting and are administered either orally or via injection. Amphetamines are frequently misused by teens who use them to keep 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. medication adhd adults can also cause physical and psychological problems if misused, particularly in higher doses. Non-stimulant medicines 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 as stimulants, but are less likely to make more tics and cause problems for people with Tourette's syndrome. Short-acting stimulants These drugs 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 liquids and patches as well as pills that can either be chewed or swallowed. They are typically only available with a doctor's 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 and 6 hours. These medications alleviate symptoms for 70-80 percent of children and adults with ADHD. They decrease the amount of fidgeting and interruptions, and make it easier for you to complete tasks. They also help improve academic performance and relationships. But they don't solve the underlying problems that cause ADHD. Therefore, it's crucial to use them along with behavior therapy. It is also important to know that ADHD medicines have side effects. They can make you sleepy or cranky, and can affect your sleep. But these effects are usually small and disappear as the medication is gone from your body. Your doctor might advise you to start with a small dosage and gradually increase it. They'll watch to see how the medication affects you or your child and check for any issues. Finding the best medication for you or your children may take some time. It's best to open with your health care team and communicate clearly. They might suggest a change in the frequency of medication that you or your child takes, or if any medication is required at any time. They'll also be looking to determine if you or your child have any other mental or medical ailments. Intermediate stimulants Stimulants help to manage ADHD symptoms by altering neurotransmitter activity in the brain. This increases the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine, two chemical compounds that are important for the function of the pre-frontal cortex region of the brain (think of it as your “secretary” in the executive function part of your brain). Most kids with ADHD respond well to stimulant medications. Your doctor will collaborate with you to figure out which type of medication and dosage is appropriate for you. It is possible to try different types of medication before finding the one that works best for you or your child. You can take immediate-release stimulants in liquid form as well as chewable tablets. These drugs start working quickly and last for three to four hours. Some people have a problem when the medicine wears off, which is called the “crash effect.” It usually results in a sharp reduction in energy levels and can cause intense hunger. Long-acting stimulants (like dexamfetamine and lisdexamfetamine) are also available. These are a little more complicated and require a prescription. They are injected in the bloodstream, and they become active in red blood cells. Finding the right medication, dosage and schedule for your child or yourself may take some time. Your doctor will monitor how you respond to medication and will be on the lookout for any issues like trouble sleeping. If you or your child is not responding well to stimulants, your doctor will also discuss non-stimulant medications. You shouldn't alter or stop taking your ADHD medication without speaking to your doctor first. It is also essential to inform your doctor about any prescription medications and supplements you are taking, as certain medications can interact with other ADHD medications. Long-acting stimulants For 70-80% of adults and children with ADHD stimulant medications work in decreasing hyperactivity, interrupting behaviour, fidgeting and impulsivity. They can also enhance focus and assist people to finish their tasks and maintain relationships. They might not help reduce moodiness, or other troubling symptoms. They can also cause negative side effects, such as the loss of appetite, insomnia and anxiety. They can also trigger stomachaches, heart rhythm changes, and high blood pressure. These medications work in stages to treat ADHD symptoms throughout the day. Most of these drugs start to work within 30 to 60 minutes. They wear off after 3 to 6 hours. They can be used on their own or with other types of ADHD treatment, such as behavioral therapy. Some of these stimulants with long-acting effects, including Atomoxetine (Strattera) and guanfacine-ER (Intuniv), last through the night and into the morning. Some doctors recommend taking these in the afternoon to avoid patients from requiring additional medication during school or afterschool. Long-acting stimulants do not increase dopamine levels as much as short- or intermediate-acting drugs, but they still boost their levels significantly. They don't have the same rebound effects as shorter-acting stimulants. Long-acting stimulants, due to the potential for adverse reactions, are usually prescribed as a secondary treatment for adults with ADHD and teens who are older. They are also employed to treat a few people suffering from ADHD if other medications haven't helped. While medication can aid in improving self-control and concentration however, it's not the only solution for people suffering from ADHD. With the help of a good night's sleep habits, healthy diets, and other self-help techniques, it is often possible to reduce, or even eliminate, the need for ADHD medication.