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How Does ADHD Medication Work? When one neuron transmits a signal to another, it uses chemicals known as neurotransmitters. These chemicals must travel through a tiny gap known as a synapse. Certain ADHD medications help in the transmission of these messages more efficient. They may aid neurons in releasing more neurotransmitters or slow the process of reuptake (called Reuptake inhibitors). Doctors place patients with ADHD on a low dose of medication and then observe their reactions. They gradually adjust the dosage to discover the “sweet spot,” the lowest dose that shows a noticeable improvement in symptoms and produces fewer side effects. Methylphenidate Methylphenidate is the most common type of medication doctors often attempt to offer to children suffering from ADHD. It increases the amount of norepinephrine and dopamine in kids' brains which help them pay attention and stay focused. It also reduces their hyperactivity and impulsivity. Be aware that methylphenidate should only be taken under an appointment with a doctor since it is a controlled drug. The most common methylphenidate medication is Ritalin. It comes in immediate-release tablets or chewable tablets as well as capsules. Some versions of the medication contain aspartame (an artificial sweetener) which can be harmful for those suffering from the genetic condition phenylketonuria which causes severe intellectual impairment. Be sure to tell your doctor about any food allergies that you or your child has. Researchers have found that methylphenidate reduces aberrant activity, especially in the accumbens' nucleus as well as a network of brain networks involved in regulating adaptive control. This could explain why methylphenidate has been found to be among the most effective drugs for treating ADHD. Stimulants can trigger side effects which include a an increase in appetite, sleepiness, stomach upset headache, anxiety, disturbances and tics. These aren't common however they can be serious. If they occur you should contact your doctor right away. You should also tell your doctor if you or your child is suffering from allergies, the presence of heart disease, bipolar disorder, depression or other mental health conditions or glaucoma, a past history of seizures or strokes, or if you are taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) like isocarboxazid (Marplan), linezolid (Zyvox) or methylene blue, or phenelzine (Nardil). It is important to take methylphenidate according to the dosage prescribed by your doctor. Amphetamines Amphetamines can help you concentrate on your thoughts and ignore distractions by speeding up the messages between brain cells. They are the most frequently prescribed drugs for treating ADHD in children and adults. They boost the levels of neurotransmitters norepinephrine as well as dopamine in your brain. Amphetamines are available in both short-acting (immediate-release) and intermediate or long-acting versions. They can be taken orally as well as via injection. Some people are afflicted by the adverse effects of stimulant medications, like restlessness or difficulty sleeping, or an increased heart rate and elevated blood pressure. Your doctor will monitor the symptoms and adjust the dosage to determine the most appropriate one for you. Some people may require multiple prescriptions to achieve the desired result. The effects of stimulants are primarily on two neurotransmitters located in the prefrontal cortex. This is the region of the brain that regulates emotions and governs your behavior. These medications are prescribed to treat a variety of mental health issues such as depression, ADD/ADHD, anxiety and bipolar disorder. The most common kinds of stimulant drugs are methylphenidates and amphetamines. The FDA has approved dozens of brand-name stimulants for treating ADHD. They are available in different forms ranging from short-acting stimulants to longer-acting stimulants. They can be taken orally or in a injection. Students, truck drivers and teens who require more energy to perform endurance sports can abuse amphetamines. They can also cause physical and psychological problems if misused, particularly in higher doses. Non-stimulant drugs 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 function using the same chemical as stimulants, but they are less likely to cause the tics worse, which is a problem for people with Tourette's syndrome. Short-acting stimulants These medications are used to treat adolescents and children with ADHD. They can be taken by mouth or applied on the skin. They are available in patches and liquids and pills that can either be chewed or swallowed. They are generally only available with a prescription from a doctor. These medications include methylphenidate (brand names Ritalin, Concerta, Focalin, Daytrana), and amphetamines (Adderall, Dexedrine, Vyvanse). Short-acting stimulants work fast and last from 3 to 6 hours. These medications ease the symptoms of 70% to 80% 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 academic performance and relationships. They can't correct the root issues that create ADHD. Therefore, it's crucial to use them along with behavior therapy. click for source is also important to know that ADHD medicines have side effects. They can cause you to be drowsy or cranky, and can affect your sleep. These effects are usually mild and will disappear once the medication has left your system. Your doctor may advise you to start with a smaller dose and increase it gradually. They'll observe how the medication affects you or your child and also look for any signs of problems. Finding the best medication for you or your children could take some time. It is best to be honest with your health care team and communicate clearly. They may suggest changes in the amount of medication that you or your child takes or if any medication is needed at any time. They'll also want to know whether you or your child has any other mental or medical conditions. Intermediate stimulants Stimulants are used to treat ADHD symptoms by altering the activity of important neurotransmitters in the brain. This boosts 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 part of your mind). The use of stimulants is efficient for the majority of ADHD children. Your doctor will work with you to figure out what kind of medication and dosage is best for you. You may have to try various types of medicines before finding the one that is right for you or your child. These stimulants can be taken in liquid or chewable tablet form. These medications begin working quickly and last for three to four hours. The “crash effect” occurs when the medication wears off. It is characterized by a sudden drop in energy levels and extreme hunger. Long-acting stimulants (like dexamfetamine and Lisdexamfetamine) are also available. These are more complicated and require prescriptions. They are injected into the bloodstream and change from inactive to active in red blood cells. It takes time to determine the right medication, dosage, and schedule for your child or you. Your doctor will monitor your response to the medication and look for any issues such as trouble sleeping. They will also talk to you about medications that are not stimulant in the event that you or your child are not responding well to the stimulants. You should never alter or stop taking your ADHD medication without talking to your doctor first. Inform your doctor if you take any over-the counter medications or supplements, as they could interact with ADHD medications. Long-acting stimulants Stimulant medication is effective for 70-80% of adults and children with ADHD and help cut down on hyperactivity, interruptions or fidgeting and impulsivity. They can also increase focus and help people finish their tasks and maintain relationships. They might not help reduce moodiness, or other nagging symptoms. And they may cause side effects like loss of appetite, insomnia nausea, jitteriness changes in heart rhythm and high blood pressure. These drugs work in phases to treat ADHD symptoms throughout the day. The majority of these medications begin to work within 30 to 60 minutes, and wear off after 3 to 6 hours. They can be used by themselves or in conjunction with other types of ADHD treatment, like behavioral therapy. Some of these long-acting stimulants, like atomoxetine-ER (Intuniv) and guanfacine (Strattera) are able to last all night and the next day. Some doctors recommend taking them in the afternoon, to avoid patients from having to take additional medication in school or afterschool. Long-acting stimulants don't increase dopamine levels as rapidly as short- and intermediate-acting drugs, but they still raise their levels significantly. They don't have the same rebound effects as stimulants that have shorter-acting effects. Long-acting stimulants, because of the possibility of adverse effects, are usually prescribed as a last resort for adults suffering from ADHD and teens who are older. They can also be used to treat some people suffering from ADHD in cases where other medications haven't been effective. While medication can help improve concentration and self-control, it's not the whole answer for those who suffer from ADHD. Combined with a healthy sleeping routine and healthy eating habits, as well as other strategies for self-help, it's often possible to decrease or eliminate the necessity for ADHD medicine.