How Does ADHD Medication Work?
The medications reduce ADHD symptoms by increasing levels of the chemicals dopamine and noradrenaline that pass messages between brain cells. The most frequently prescribed stimulants are methylphenidate Glycine and atomoxetine.
Finding the right dosage and dosage is often a trial and error process. Open, honest communication with your doctor is crucial.
Stimulants
The stimulant medications prescribed for ADHD boost the levels of the hormones dopamine as well as noradrenaline. It is not clear how the drugs work however they do enhance attention and memory and reduce hyperactivity. However, the medications don't cure ADHD. They serve as a tool to help people function in a society that's typically not designed to accommodate people with neurodivergent brains.
The majority of stimulants are controlled drugs that means doctors must watch the person taking them for any side effects such as an abrupt drop in energy, appetite suppression and shakiness or sleep issues. It can take some time to find the right medication, dosage and treatment. It is crucial that the person with ADHD attends regular appointments with their physician.
The dosage of stimulant drugs differs for children and adults. Doctors may suggest lifestyle modifications to complement the medication and assist people with ADHD learn strategies for managing their symptoms. A social worker or psychiatric nurse could be part of the treatment team, as well.
ADHD and mood disorders such as dysthymia or depression often coexist. Typically, clinicians treat the mood disorder first, and then revisit the ADHD symptoms. This is because the underlying condition may affect the way a person behaves, and it is better to address the root issue than try to medicate the symptoms.
The drugs are beneficial, but they are not the only solution. They are best used in conjunction with other treatments, for example, cognitive behavior therapy, psychosocial work, parenting skills training, exercise, and nutrition and diet counseling. A recent survey found that only 41 percent of parents were completely happy with the ADHD medication their child was taking.
Stimulants can have some unfavorable side effects, including 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 common medications used to treat ADHD are methylphenidates as well as amphetamines, which are available both as prescriptions and over-the-counter. Some people with ADHD benefit from extended-release versions of these drugs which are usually taken once a day in the morning and last six to eight hours. Many people use tablets for immediate release in the afternoon to complement these long-acting medications. Recommended Web site is used to fill in the time between the initial medication wearing off and prevents an abrupt decline in motivation and energy. In addition to helping with concentration and focus, a few people claim that their ADHD medications 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 report that the onset symptoms of ADHD improve as they get older.