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How Does ADHD Medication Work? When one neuron sends a message to another, it makes use of neurotransmitters or chemicals. They need to cross a tiny gap called a synapse. Certain ADHD medications make the transmission of these messages more effective. They may help neurons release neurotransmitters more or slow the process of reuptake (called reuptake inhibitors). Doctors begin ADHD patients with a low dose and monitor their reaction. They alter the dosage as they go along to find the “sweet spot” — the lowest level that provides an immediate improvement in symptoms and minimal side effects. Methylphenidate Methylphenidate is the most common kind of medication that doctors typically try to help kids with ADHD. It helps by increasing the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine that is present in children's brains, which helps them focus and pay attention. It also decreases the impulsivity and hyperactivity of children. It is important to keep in mind that the methylphenidate drug is a controlled substance and should only be taken under the supervision of a doctor. The most commonly used methylphenidate medicine is Ritalin. It is available in tablets that release immediately (Ritalin, Concerta, or Quillichew ER) chewable tablets with a long-acting mechanism (Cotempla XR-ODT or Adhansia XR) or long-acting capsules (Adhansia PM or Jornay PM). Certain versions of this medication contain the artificial sweetener aspartame, which may be harmful for those suffering from phenylketonuria (an inherited condition that causes severe intellectual disabilities). Inform your doctor if or your child suffer from food allergies. Researchers have found that methylphenidate can reduce abnormal activity in certain areas of the brain, which includes the nucleus accumbens and a network of three brain networks that play a part in the process of adaptive control. This may explain why methylphenidate is considered to be one of the most effective drugs to treat ADHD. Side effects of stimulants include headaches, nausea, sleepiness anxiety, agitation, the tics and agitation. These are rare but can be serious. If you notice them you must contact your doctor right away. You should also tell your doctor if your child suffers from allergies, a history of heart disease or depression, bipolar disorder, or other mental health problems, glaucoma, a history of seizures or stroke or if you're taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) like isocarboxazid (Marplan) and linezolid (Zyvox) and the methylene blue, or phenelzine (Nardil). It is important to take methylphenidate as recommended by your doctor. Amphetamines Amphetamines can speed up the transmission of messages between brain cells and help you focus your thoughts and stay clear of distractions. They are the most frequently prescribed drugs for treating ADHD in both 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 forms. They can be consumed orally as well as via injection. Some people have a difficult dealing with the adverse effects of stimulant medication including restlessness, difficulty sleeping or a rise in heart rate and blood pressure. Your doctor will be able to monitor your symptoms and adjust your dosage to determine the most effective one for you. Some people may have to take a mixture of medications to get the desired effect. The effects of stimulants are mediated by two neurotransmitters that are essential to the pre-frontal cortex. It is the brain region that helps regulate emotions and control your behavior. These drugs are prescribed to treat a variety of mental health issues, including ADD/ADHD, depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder. Amphetamines as well as methylphenidates are the most common stimulant drugs. The FDA has approved dozens of brand-name stimulants for treating ADHD. They are available in various forms ranging from short-acting stimulants to long-acting stimulants. They can be taken orally, or in a injection. Amphetamines are frequently misused by teenagers who use them to keep awake and concentrate for tests, or by truck drivers and students who require an extra boost of energy to compete in endurance sports. They can also cause physical and psychological problems if used in excess, particularly with higher doses. ADHD is treatable with non-stimulant medications. They include atomoxetine, 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 based on the same chemicals as stimulants, but are less likely to make more tics which is a concern for people with Tourette's syndrome. Short-acting stimulants These medications are used for treating children and teenagers with ADHD. how to treat adhd without medication in adults can be consumed by mouth or applied to the skin. They are available in patches and liquids, as well as pills that can either be swallowed or chewed. They are typically only available through prescription. These include methylphenidate (brand names Ritalin (Concerta, Focalin (Daytrana) and amphetamines (Adderall (Dexedrine, Vyvanse)). Short-acting stimulants are fast-acting and last for about 3 to 6 hours. These medications alleviate symptoms for 70 percent to 80% of children and adults with ADHD. They reduce the tendency to fidget and interruptions, and make it easier to complete tasks. They can also improve relationships and academic performance. They can't address the root issues that create ADHD. It's crucial to combine them with behavior therapy. It's important to understand that ADHD medication can cause adverse effects. You might feel tired or cranky. You may also feel sleepy. These effects are usually mild, and they disappear when the medicine leaves your system. Your doctor might ask you to take only a small amount at first and then increase it gradually. They'll watch to see how the medication affects your child or you and look for any problems. Finding the best medication for you or your children may take some time. It is important to communicate openly with your health care provider. They may suggest changes to the frequency at which you or your child take the medication, or whether it's necessary at all. They'll also be looking to determine whether you or your child suffers from any other medical or mental health conditions. Intermediate stimulants Stimulants are used to treat ADHD symptoms by altering the activity of important neurotransmitters in the brain. This increases the levels of dopamine as well as norepinephrine, two chemicals that are essential for the functioning of the pre-frontal cortex of the brain (think of it as your “secretary” in the executive functioning part of your brain). Stimulant medication is efficient for the majority of ADHD children. Your doctor will assist you to determine the right medication and dosage for you. You may need to try several different types of medication before you discover the one that works for you or your children. It is possible to take stimulants with immediate release in liquid form and chewable tablets. These drugs perform quickly and last for three to four hours. The “crash effect” can occur when the medication wears off. It is characterized by rapid drop in energy levels and an intense hunger. There are also long-acting stimulants, such as dexamfetamine or lisdexamfetamine. These are more complex and require prescriptions. They are injected into bloodstreams and are then converted from inactive active in red blood cells. Finding the right dosage, medication and schedule for your child or for yourself can take some time. Your doctor will track how you respond to medication and will be on the lookout for any issues such as sleep disturbances. If you or your child isn't responding well to stimulants, they will also discuss non-stimulant medications. Never stop or change your ADHD medication without first consulting your physician. Inform your doctor if you take any over-the counter medications or supplements, as they can interact with ADHD medications. Long-acting stimulants Stimulant medications work for 70-80 percent of adults and children with ADHD and help cut down on hyperactivity, interruptions, fidgeting, and impulsivity. They can also increase focus and help people complete tasks and maintain relationships. However, they aren't able to reduce moodiness or other troublesome symptoms. And they can have side effects like the loss of appetite, insomnia stomachaches, jitteriness, changes in heart rhythm and high blood pressure. These medications work in phases, helping to treat ADHD symptoms throughout the daytime. The majority begin to work within 30 to 45 minutes. They fade in 3 to 6 hours. They can be used alone or in conjunction with other forms of ADHD treatment, like behavioral therapy. Some of these long-acting stimulants, such as atomoxetine-ER (Intuniv) and Guanfacine (Strattera) are able to last for a long time and even the next day. Some doctors suggest taking these in the afternoon to prevent patients from requiring additional medication during school or after school. Long-acting stimulants do not increase dopamine levels as dramatically as short- and intermediate-acting drugs, but they do raise their levels significantly. They don't have the same effects on rebound as stimulants with shorter durations. Long-acting stimulants, because of the potential side effects are typically prescribed as a last resort for adults suffering from ADHD and older teens. They are also employed to treat a few people suffering from ADHD when other medications haven't been effective. While medication can help improve concentration and self-control, it's not the sole solution for those with ADHD. Combined with a healthy sleeping routine, healthy eating, and other self-help strategies it's possible to eliminate or reduce the need for ADHD medication.