How Does ADHD Medication Work?
Medications reduce ADHD symptoms by increasing levels of the chemicals dopamine and noradrenaline which pass messages between brain cells. The most commonly prescribed stimulants are methylphenidate, Glycine and atomoxetine.
Finding the right dose and medication is often a trial and error process. Honest, open communication with your doctor is essential.
Stimulants
The stimulant drugs prescribed for ADHD boost levels of the hormones dopamine and noradrenaline. It isn't clear how these drugs work, however they do enhance attention and memory and reduce hyperactivity. However, the drugs are not able to solve ADHD. They are a tool to assist people in a world that is typically not designed for those with neurodivergent brains.
Most stimulants are controlled substances, and doctors must monitor the person taking them to make sure they don't cause any adverse effects like an abrupt loss of energy, a decrease in appetite, and shakiness or sleep problems. It can take time to find the right dosage and medication and it is essential for those suffering from ADHD to keep regular sessions with their healthcare professional.
The dosage of stimulant drugs differs for children and adults. Doctors may suggest lifestyle interventions as a complement to medication, and also to assist people suffering from ADHD understand how to manage their symptoms. A psychiatric nurse or social worker may be involved in the treatment team too.
ADHD and mood disorders such as dysthymia or depression can often coexist. Typically, the clinician treats the mood disorder first, and then reassess the ADHD symptoms. This is because the root condition may affect the way the person behaves and it is more beneficial to address the core issue rather than try to treat the symptoms away.
Although the medication are effective however, they aren't the only solution and should be used in combination with other treatments, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, psychosocial work and parenting skills training, physical fitness, and nutrition and diet counseling. A recent survey revealed that only 41 per cent of parents were completely happy with the ADHD medication their child was taking.
Stimulants may have adverse consequences, 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.
Amphetamines and methylphenidates are the most commonly prescribed medications to treat ADHD. They are also available over-the-counter. These medications are available in extended-release formulations, which can be taken once daily in the morning for up to eight hours. Suggested Reading take tablets that release immediately in the afternoon to supplement these long-acting medication. The extra tablet covers the time between the initial medication fading and prevents an abrupt drop in motivation and energy. Additionally, it aids in concentration and focus, some say that their ADHD medication allows them to fall asleep at night more easily because the medication calms the racing thoughts that kept them awake before. This can be a sign that the medication is working. Many have reported that the initial symptoms of ADHD improve as they age.