How Does ADHD Medication Work?
The drugs help reduce ADHD symptoms by increasing levels Dopamine and Noradrenaline. Both are chemicals that transmit messages between brain cells. The most frequently prescribed stimulants are methylphenidate atomoxetine and glycine.
Finding the right medication and dose can require a lot trial and error. Honest, open communication with your doctor is key.
Stimulants
The stimulant medications prescribed to treat ADHD increase levels of dopamine and naradrenaline. It isn't clear how the drugs work however, they can improve memory and attention and reduce hyperactivity. However, these medications don't solve ADHD. They serve as a tool to help people function in a world that is often not set up for those with neurodivergent brains.
The majority of stimulants are controlled substances and doctors must observe the person taking them to make sure they don't cause adverse effects like a sudden loss of energy, appetite suppression, and sleep issues, as well as shakiness. It can take some time to determine the appropriate dosage, medication and treatment. It is essential that the sufferer of ADHD keeps regular appointments with their doctor.
Stimulant medications are different for adults and children and the dosages vary. Doctors may recommend lifestyle interventions as an alternative to medication, and also to assist people suffering from ADHD learn how best manage their symptoms. A psychiatric nurse or social worker could be part of the treatment team as well.
medication for autism and adhd and mood disorders like dysthymia and depression are often co-existing. Typically, the clinician will treat the mood disorder and then evaluate the ADHD symptoms. The underlying issue could alter the person's behavior, so it is best to treat the underlying issue rather than medicate away the symptoms.
While the medications can be beneficial but they aren't an all-encompassing solution and should be utilized in conjunction with other treatments like psychosocial work, parenting skills training, physical exercise, and nutrition and diet counseling. A recent survey revealed that only 41 percent of parents were completely happy with the ADHD medication their child was taking.
Stimulants can have negative side effects, such as addiction and abuse. If they are misused -- injected or smoked, taken in higher-than-prescribed amounts or by people who do not have ADHD, such as methamphetamine (meth) and cocaine, or abused in the form of "bath salts" that contain synthetic cathinones -- the results can be extremely dangerous.
The most popular medications used to treat ADHD are methylphenidates and amphetamines, which are available as prescriptions as well as over-the-counter. These drugs are available in extended-release formulations, which can be taken each day in the morning, for between six and eight hours. Many people take tablets that release immediately in the afternoon to supplement these long-acting medication. The additional tablet helps to cover the time between the initial medication taking effect and stops an abrupt drop in motivation and energy. Alongside helping with concentration and focus, some people say that their ADHD meds allow them to sleep in the evening more easily since the medication calms the racing thoughts that kept them awake before. This could indicate that the medication is effective. Many people also report that the onset symptoms of ADHD improve as they age.