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How Does ADHD Medication Work? When one neuron sends a signal to another, it makes use of neurotransmitters, which are chemicals that act as. These need to cross a tiny gap called a synapse. Some ADHD medications can increase the efficiency of these messages. They either help neurons release more neurotransmitters, or slow down the reuptake process (called Reuptake inhibitors). Doctors start people with ADHD with a low dose of medication, and then monitor their reactions. They alter the dosage over time to discover an “sweet spot” -the lowest dose that shows noticeable improvement in symptoms, with few adverse side effects. Methylphenidate Methylphenidate is the first drug that doctors try to help ADHD children, is usually Methylphenidate. It works by increasing the amount of norepinephrine and dopamine in children's brains, which helps them focus and pay attention. It also reduces their hyperactivity and impulsivity. It is important to remember that methylphenidate must only be taken under the supervision of a physician since it is a controlled drug. Ritalin is the most common methylphenidate drug. It is available in tablets that release immediately as well as chewable tablets and capsules. Certain versions of the medication contain aspartame (an artificial sweetener) which is hazardous for people suffering from Phenylketonuria, a genetic condition that causes severe intellectual disabilities. Be sure to tell your provider about any food allergies that you or your child suffers from. Researchers have found that methylphenidate reduces aberrant activity, especially in the accumbens' nucleus as well as a set of brain networks involved in the process of adaptive control. This is the reason why methylphenidate is among the most effective medications for treating ADHD. Side effects of stimulants include headaches, nausea, sleepiness, anxiety, agitation or the tics and agitation. These are rare but can be serious. You should consult your physician immediately if you experience any of these symptoms. It is also important to inform your doctor if your child suffers from allergies or an underlying heart condition or bipolar disorder, depression or any other mental health issues or glaucoma, a past history of stroke or seizures or if you are taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) like isocarboxazid (Marplan) or linezolid (Zyvox) and Methylene Blue, or Phenelzine (Nardil). It is essential to take your methylphenidate in accordance with the prescription of your doctor. Amphetamines Amphetamines can speed up the transmission of messages between brain cells and can help you concentrate your thoughts and stay clear of distractions. They are among the most commonly prescribed medications to treat ADHD in children and adults. They boost the levels of neurotransmitters, dopamine and norepinephrine, in your brain. Amphetamines can be found in short-acting (immediate release) and intermediate- or long-acting form. They are available orally or via injection. Some people are afflicted by the negative side effects of stimulant medications, such as restlessness or trouble sleeping, or increased heart rate and high blood pressure. Your doctor will observe your symptoms and adjust the dosage to determine the most effective one for you. Some people may have to take a mix of medications to get the desired effect. The effects of stimulants are primarily on two neurotransmitters in the prefrontal cortex. This is the part of the brain which regulates emotions and manages your behavior. These medications are used to treat a range of mental health issues, including ADD/ADHD, depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder. The most common kinds of stimulant drugs include methylphenidates and amphetamines. The FDA has approved dozens of brand-name stimulants to treat ADHD. They are available in various forms, ranging from short-acting to long-acting, and are administered orally or by injection. Amphetamines are often abused by teenagers who take them to stay awake and focus for tests, or by truck drivers and students that require an extra boost of energy to compete in endurance sports. Amphetamines can cause psychological and physical problems when misused, particularly at higher doses. ADHD can be treated 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 built on the same chemical that stimulants do, but they are less likely to trigger the symptoms of tics in those with Tourette syndrome. Short-acting stimulants These medications are used to treat teenagers and children with ADHD. These medications can be taken orally or applied to the skin. They are available in pills that can be swallowed or chewed, capsules that can be opened and sprinkled onto food, and liquid and patches. They are typically only available with a prescription from a doctor. These include methylphenidate, (brand names Ritalin (Concerta, Focalin (Daytrana) and amphetamines (Adderall (Dexedrine, Vyvanse)). Short-acting stimulants work quickly and last for 3 to 6 hours. These drugs relieve symptoms for 70-80 percent of children and adults with ADHD. They can reduce fidgeting and interruptions, as well as making it easier to complete tasks. They also help improve relationships and academic performance. However, they aren't able to address the root issues that cause ADHD. So it's important to use them in conjunction with behavior therapy. It's important to understand that ADHD medications can cause side effects. They can make you drowsy or cranky, and can affect your sleep. However, these effects are usually small and disappear as the medicine leaves your body. Your doctor may ask you to start with a smaller dosage and gradually increase it. They will monitor you or your child to see if there are any problems with the medication. Finding the best medication for your child or yourself may take some time. It is important to communicate openly with your health care provider. They might suggest an increase in the frequency of medication that you or your child take or if any medication is needed at all. They'll also want to know whether your child or you suffers from any other medical or mental health conditions. Intermediate stimulants Stimulants manage ADHD symptoms by altering the neurotransmitter activity of the brain. This can increase the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine, two chemicals important for the pre-frontal cortical area of the brain. (Think of it as “your secretary” in the executive part of your brain). The use of stimulants is effective for most ADHD children. Your doctor will assist you to determine the right medication and dosage for you. You may have to try various types of medicines before you find the one that works best for you or your child. You can take stimulants that release immediately in liquid form as well as chewable tablets. best adhd medication for adults uk begin to work quickly and last for three to four hours. There are some people who experience problems when the medication wears off, a phenomenon known as the “crash effect.” It usually results in an abrupt decrease in energy and can cause intense hunger. Long-acting stimulants (like dexamfetamine and Lisdexamfetamine) are also available. They are more complex and require prescription. They are injected into bloodstreams and then change from inactive to active in red blood cells. Finding the right medication, dosage and schedule for your child or for yourself can take some time. Your doctor will observe your response to the medication and will look for any signs of trouble like trouble sleeping. They will also inform you about medications that are not stimulant in the event that you or your child are not responding well to stimulants. It is not advisable to alter or stop taking your ADHD medication without speaking to your doctor first. Inform your doctor if take any prescription drugs or supplements, as some could interact with ADHD medications. Long-acting stimulants Stimulant medicines are effective for 70 to 80 percent of adults and children with ADHD, helping to cut the amount of hyperactivity, interruptions or fidgeting and impulsivity. They also help improve focus and help people finish their tasks and maintain relationships. They may not reduce moodiness or other troublesome symptoms. They may also cause negative side effects, such as loss of appetite, insomnia and jitteriness. They can also cause stomachaches, changes in the heart rhythm and high blood pressure. These drugs work in phases to treat ADHD symptoms all day long. The majority of them begin to show effects within 30 to 45 minutes and disappear within 3 to 6 hours. They are often utilized in conjunction with other forms of ADHD treatment, such as behavioral therapy. Some of these long acting stimulants, such as atomoxetine-ER (Intuniv) and Guanfacine (Strattera), can be used all night long and last until the next morning. Some doctors recommend taking these in the afternoon to avoid patients from requiring additional medication in school or in the afternoon. Long-acting stimulants don't increase dopamine levels to the same degree as intermediate or short-acting drugs. However, they have a significant effect on dopamine levels. They don't have the same effects on rebound as stimulants that have shorter-acting effects. Long-acting stimulants due to the potential for adverse reactions are typically prescribed as a second treatment for adults suffering from ADHD and teens who are older. But they can be utilized as a first-line treatment option for certain people with ADHD who haven't had a response to other medications. Although medication can aid in improving self-control and concentration but it's not the only solution for people suffering from ADHD. With the help of good sleeping habits, healthy diets and other self-help methods it's possible to decrease, or even eliminate, the necessity for ADHD medication.