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How Does ADHD Medication Work? When a neuron transmits an information to another, it makes use of neurotransmitters, chemicals. These chemicals must pass through a small gap that is called a synapse. Some ADHD medications increase the efficiency of these messages. They may help neurons release neurotransmitters more or slow the process of reuptake (called reuptake inhibitors). Doctors start ADHD patients on a low dosage and then monitor their response. They alter the dosage as they go along to discover a “sweet spot” -the lowest dosage that offers noticeable improvement in symptoms, with very few adverse side effects. Methylphenidate Methylphenidate the first medication that doctors use to treat ADHD children, is usually Methylphenidate. It increases the amount of norepinephrine and dopamine in children's brains, which help them pay attention and stay focused. It also reduces their impulsivity and hyperactivity. It is important to keep in mind that methylphenidate is a controlled drug and should only be used under the supervision of a doctor. The most commonly used methylphenidate medicine is Ritalin. It's available as tablets with immediate release (Ritalin, Concerta, or Quillichew ER) chewable tablets that are long-acting (Cotempla XR-ODT or Adhansia XR) or long-acting capsules (Adhansia PM or Jornay PM). Certain forms of the medication contain aspartame (an artificial sweetener) which is dangerous for those with Phenylketonuria, a genetic condition that causes severe intellectual disabilities. Tell your provider if you or your child have food allergies. Researchers have found that methylphenidate can reduce abnormal activity in parts of the brain, including the nucleus of accumbens, as well as a network of three brain networks that play an important role in the process of adaptive control. This could explain why methylphenidate is one of the most effective medications for treating ADHD. Stimulants can cause side effects that can include loss of appetite as well as stomach upset, sleepiness, headache, anxiety or disturbances, and the tics. They are not common however they can be serious. You should consult your physician immediately if you notice any of these symptoms. Inform your doctor about any heart disease, allergies, depression, bipolar disorders or other mental health issues like glaucoma, seizures, or glaucoma. Also, inform them whether your child or you have a history. It is important to take methylphenidate as recommended by your doctor. Amphetamines Amphetamines can help you focus your thoughts and block out distractions by speeding up the messages between brain cells. They are the most frequently prescribed medications to treat ADHD in children and adults. They increase the levels of neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine in your brain. Amphetamines come in short-acting (immediate release) and intermediate- or long-acting versions. They can be ingested as well as via injection. Some people are troubled by the negative side effects of stimulant medication, like restlessness or trouble sleeping, or increased heart rate and high blood pressure. Your doctor will observe the symptoms and adjust the dosage to determine the best one for you. Some patients may need to take a mix of drugs to achieve the desired effect. The effects of stimulants are mediated by two important neurotransmitters in the pre-frontal cortex, which is the brain region that helps regulate emotions and control your behavior. These medications are prescribed for a broad variety of mental health issues that include ADD/ADHD, as well as other disorders like bipolar disorder, narcolepsy and eating disorders. Amphetamines as well as methylphenidates are the most common stimulant drugs. The FDA has approved dozens of brand-name stimulants for treating ADHD. They come in different forms, from short-acting to long-acting, and are administered either by injection or orally. Truck drivers, students and teens who require more energy to compete in endurance sports can take amphetamines. Amphetamines can cause mental and physical issues when misused, particularly at higher doses. Non-stimulant medicines can also be effective for treating ADHD. They include atomoxetine and 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, however they are less likely to exacerbate the symptoms of tics in those with Tourette syndrome. Short-acting stimulants These medicines are used to treat children and teens with 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 be swallowed or chewed. These drugs are usually only available on prescription. These include methylphenidate (brand names Ritalin, Concerta, Focalin, Daytrana), and amphetamines (Adderall, Dexedrine, Vyvanse). Short-acting stimulants have a rapid effect and last between 3 to 6 hours. These medications alleviate symptoms in 70-80 percent of children and adults with ADHD. They decrease the amount of fidgeting and interrupting, making it easier for you to complete tasks. They also help improve academic performance and relationships. They can't correct the root issues that create ADHD. So it's important to use them in conjunction with behavior therapy. It's important to understand that ADHD medications can have side effects. They can make you drowsy or cranky, and they may interfere with your sleep. However, these effects are usually minor and go away as the medicine is eliminated from your body. Your doctor may advise you to start with a smaller dosage and gradually increase it. They'll watch to see how the medication affects your child or you and check for any issues. Finding the right medication for your child or yourself may take some time. It's best to be open with your health care team and communicate clearly. They may suggest changes in the frequency at which you or your child is taking the medication, or if it's needed at all. They'll also be looking to determine whether you or your child has any other mental or medical health issues. Intermediate stimulants Stimulants control ADHD symptoms by altering neurotransmitter activity in the brain. This increases the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine, two substances that are important for the pre-frontal cortical area of the brain. (Think of it as “your secretary” in the executive function part of your brain). Most kids who suffer from ADHD respond well to stimulant medication. Your doctor will collaborate with you to figure out what kind of medication and dose is appropriate for you. You may have to try various types of medications before you discover the one that is right for you or your kids. It is possible to take stimulants with immediate release in liquid form or chewable tablets. These drugs start working quickly and last for three or four hours. Some people have a problem when the medication wears off, a phenomenon known as the “crash effect.” This usually involves an immediate reduction in energy levels and can cause extreme hunger. There are also stimulants that act long-lastingly like dexamfetamine or Lisdexamfetamine. These are a little more complicated and require prescription. They are injected into the bloodstream and change from inactive to active in red blood cells. Finding the right medication, dosage and schedule for your child or yourself may take time. Your doctor will keep track of how you react to the medication and will be on the lookout for any issues such as sleep disturbances. They will also talk to you about medications that are not stimulant for children or parents who are not responding well to the stimulants. You shouldn't discontinue or alter your ADHD medication without consulting your doctor first. Tell your doctor if you take any over-the counter medications or supplements, as some can interact with ADHD medications. Long-acting stimulants For 70-80% of adults and children with ADHD stimulant medication is effective in decreasing hyperactivity, interrupting behaviour as well as impulsivity, fidgeting and fidgeting. They also aid people to focus, finish tasks, and maintain relationships. However, they aren't able to reduce moodiness or other problematic symptoms. They can also cause negative effects, such as the loss of appetite, insomnia stomachaches, jitteriness, changes in heart rhythm, and high blood pressure. These medications work in phases to treat ADHD symptoms all day long. Most of these drugs begin to work within 30 to 60 minutes. They wear off after 3 to 6 hours. They can be used by themselves or with other types of ADHD treatment, such as behavioral therapy. Some of these long-acting stimulants such as atomoxetine (Strattera) and Guanfacine-ER (Intuniv) will last throughout the night and into the next morning. Some doctors recommend taking them in the afternoon to prevent patients from needing additional medication during school or afterschool. Long-acting stimulants don't increase dopamine levels as rapidly as intermediate- and short-acting drugs, but they do raise the levels of dopamine significantly. Therefore, they don't cause the same kind of rebound effects as occur with shorter-acting stimulants. Because of medication for add adults www.iampsychiatry.uk for side effects Due to the possibility of side effects, long-acting stimulants are usually prescribed as a second-line treatment for adults and teens suffering from ADHD. However, they can be utilized as a first-line treatment option for those with ADHD who haven't had a response to other medications. While medication can aid in improving concentration and self-control, it's never the sole solution for those suffering from ADHD. Combined with a healthy sleeping routine, healthy eating, and other strategies for self-help it's usually possible to decrease or eliminate the need for ADHD medication.