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How Does ADHD Medication Work? When one neuron sends an information to another, it makes use of neurotransmitters, chemicals. These chemicals must cross a tiny gap known as a synapse. Certain ADHD medications increase the efficiency of these messages. They may help neurons release neurotransmitters faster or slow the process of reuptake (called Reuptake inhibitors). Doctors start ADHD patients with a lower dose and monitor their response. They adjust the dosage gradually to find the “sweet spot,” the lowest dose that results in a significant improvement in symptoms and has few side effects. Methylphenidate Methylphenidate is the first drug that doctors try to help ADHD kids, is often Methylphenidate. It is a way to increase the amount of dopamine and norepinephrine that is present in children's brains, which helps them focus and pay attention. It also reduces their hyperactivity and impulsivity. Remember that methylphenidate should only be taken under an appointment with a doctor since it is a controlled drug. Ritalin is the most common methylphenidate drug. It is available in immediate-release tablets, chewable tablets, and capsules. Certain forms of the medication contain aspartame (an artificial sweetener) which can be harmful for those suffering from Phenylketonuria, a genetic condition that causes severe intellectual disabilities. Inform your doctor if you or your child have food allergies. Researchers have found that methylphenidate may reduce abnormal activity, specifically in the accumbens' nucleus and also 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 drugs for treating ADHD. Stimulants can cause side effects that include an increase in appetite as well as stomach upset, sleepiness headache, anxiety, disturbances, and the tics. These are rare but can be serious. You should consult your physician immediately if you experience any of these symptoms. You should also inform your doctor if you or your child is suffering from allergies or the presence of heart disease or bipolar disorder, depression or any other mental health issues, glaucoma, a history of stroke or seizures or if you are taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), linezolid (Zyvox) and Methylene Blue, or Phenelzine (Nardil). It's important to take methylphenidate exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Amphetamines Amphetamines can help you focus on your thoughts and avoid distractions by speeding up the transmission of messages between brain cells. They are the most frequently prescribed medications to treat ADHD in adults and children. They increase the amount of neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine in your brain. Amphetamines can be found in short-acting (immediate release) and intermediate- or long-acting versions. They can be taken orally and also via injection. Some people are afflicted by the adverse effects of stimulant medications, like restlessness or difficulties sleeping, or an increased heart rate and high blood pressure. Your doctor will observe the symptoms and alter the dosage to find the best one for you. Some people may have to take a mixture of medicines to achieve the desired effect. Stimulant drugs work by affecting two neurotransmitters that are essential to the pre-frontal cortex. This is the brain region that helps regulate emotions and control your behavior. These drugs are prescribed to treat a wide range of mental health disorders that include ADD/ADHD, as well as other disorders like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, narcolepsy, and eating disorders. The most popular types of stimulant drugs are methylphenidates and amphetamines. The FDA has approved dozens of brand-name stimulants for treating ADHD. They are available in various forms ranging from stimulants that are short-acting to long-acting stimulants – and can be taken orally, or injected. Amphetamines are often abused by teenagers who use them to keep awake and study for tests or by truck drivers and students who need extra energy for endurance sports. They can also cause psychological and physical problems if used in excess, particularly with higher doses. ADHD is treatable with non-stimulant medication. 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 made up of the same chemical that stimulants are, but they are less likely to trigger the symptoms of tics in those with Tourette syndrome. Short-acting stimulants These medicines are used to treat children and teens with ADHD. adult add 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 swallowed or chewed. They are typically only available with a doctor's prescription. The medications include methylphenidate (brand names Ritalin, Concerta, Focalin, Daytrana), and amphetamines (Adderall, Dexedrine, Vyvanse). Short-acting stimulants are fast-acting and last for about 3 to 6 hours. These drugs ease symptoms for 70% to 80% of children and adults suffering from ADHD. They can reduce fidgeting and interruptions, and make it easier to finish tasks. They can also improve academic performance and relationships. But they don't solve the underlying problems that cause ADHD. So it's important to use them in conjunction with behavior therapy. It is important to be aware that ADHD medications can have negative side effects. They can make you drowsy or cranky, and they may interfere with your sleep. However, these effects are usually minimal and will disappear once the medicine leaves your body. Your doctor may suggest you take an initial dose of a small amount and then gradually increase the dosage. They will be watching you or your child closely to determine if there are any problems with the medication. It could take some time to determine the best dosage and medication for your child or yourself. It is best to be honest with your health care providers and communicate clearly. They may suggest changes to how often you or your child takes the medication, or if it's needed at all. They'll also be looking to determine if you or your child have any other mental or medical conditions. Intermediate stimulants Stimulants manage ADHD symptoms by altering the activity of neurotransmitters in the brain. This increases the levels of dopamine as well as 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 functioning part of your brain). The use of stimulants is effective for the majority of ADHD children. Your doctor will work with you to figure out which type of medication and dose is right for you. You may need to test different types of medication before finding the one that works best for you or your child. You can take stimulants that release immediately in liquid form and chewable tablets. These drugs work quickly and last three to four hours. The “crash effect” is a sign that the medicine wears out. This is evident by an abrupt reduction in energy levels as well as intense hunger. Long-acting stimulants (like dexamfetamine and Lisdexamfetamine) are also available. They are more complex and require prescription. They are injected into the bloodstream, and they become active in red blood cell. Finding the right medication, dosage and schedule for your child or yourself may take some time. Your doctor will observe your reaction to the medication, and look for any problems such as sleep issues. They will also talk to you about non-stimulant medications if you or your child are not responding well to stimulants. Do not stop or alter your ADHD medications without first consulting your physician. Inform your doctor if take any prescription drugs or supplements, as they can interact with ADHD medications. Long-acting stimulants For 70-80% of adults and children with ADHD stimulant medications work in decreasing hyperactivity, interrupting behavior as well as impulsivity, fidgeting and fidgeting. They can also improve focus and help people finish tasks and maintain relationships. However, they might not reduce moodiness or other troublesome symptoms. And they can have side effects like the loss of appetite, insomnia stomachaches, jitteriness, changes in heart rhythm and high blood pressure. These medications work in phases, helping to treat ADHD symptoms throughout the day. The majority begin to work within 30 to 45 minutes. They disappear in 3 to 6 hours. They can be used in combination with other types of ADHD treatment like behavioral therapy. Some of these long acting stimulants, including atomoxetine (Intuniv) and guanfacine (Strattera) can last all night and the next morning. Some doctors recommend using them to fill an afternoon trough, so patients don't need an additional dose of medication at school or afterschool. Long-acting stimulants don't increase dopamine levels as rapidly as intermediate- and short-acting drugs, but they do increase the levels of dopamine significantly. They don't have the same effects on rebound as shorter-acting stimulants. Long-acting stimulants, because of the possibility of adverse effects are typically prescribed as a last resort for adults suffering from ADHD and teens who are older. They are also used to treat certain patients with ADHD in cases where other medications haven't been effective. While medication can aid in improving concentration and self-control, it's not the sole solution for those with ADHD. When combined with good sleep habits and healthy eating habits, along with other strategies for self-help it's possible to reduce or eliminate the need for ADHD medication.