How Does ADHD Medication Work?
Medicines can reduce ADHD symptoms by increasing the levels of chemicals dopamine and noradrenaline which transmit messages between brain cells. The most commonly prescribed stimulants include methylphenidate and Atomoxetine.
Finding the right medication and dose can require a lot trial and trial and. Honest, open communication with your doctor is essential.
Stimulants
The stimulant drugs prescribed for ADHD increase levels of the hormones dopamine and noradrenaline. How exactly they accomplish this is unclear but the result is that memory and attention improve and hyperactivity reduces. The medication does not treat ADHD, however. They are used to aid people in functioning within an environment that isn't always designed to accommodate people who have neurodivergent minds.
Most stimulants are controlled substances and therefore doctors must be able to monitor the person taking them for any side effects like sudden drops in energy, a reduction in appetite and shakiness or sleep problems. It can take a while to determine the appropriate medication, dosage and treatment. It is essential that the person with ADHD attends regular appointments with their doctor.
The dosage of stimulant medication is different for adults and children. Doctors may recommend lifestyle interventions as a complement to medications, and to assist people suffering from ADHD learn how best manage their symptoms. types of adhd medication or social worker could be part of the treatment team too.
It is normal for mood disorders such as dysthymia and depression to be co-existent with ADHD. Usually, clinicians will treat the mood disorder first and then evaluate the ADHD symptoms. This is because the underlying condition can affect the way a person behaves, and it is better to address the core problem rather than trying to treat the symptoms.
While the drugs are effective however, they aren't a panacea and should be utilized in combination with other treatments such as psychosocial work and parenting skills training, physical exercise and diet and nutrition counseling. In fact, a recent survey of parents found that just 41 percent were very satisfied with their child's ADHD medications and just 25 percent were extremely happy.
The stimulants may have undesirable adverse effects, such as 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 as well as methylphenidates are the most frequently prescribed medications used to treat ADHD. They are also available for purchase over the counter. These medications are available in extended-release formulas, that can be taken daily in the morning for six to eight hours. Many people use tablets for immediate release in the late afternoon to supplement these long-acting medications. The extra tablet helps to keep track of the time that the first medication is fading and stops a sudden drop in motivation and energy. Some individuals claim that ADHD medication can help them fall asleep more easily at night due to it calming the racing thoughts. This could indicate that the medication is effective. Additionally, a lot of people say that the beginning of their ADHD symptoms decreases as they age.