How Does ADHD Medication Work?
Medications reduce ADHD symptoms by increasing levels of the chemicals dopamine and noradrenaline which transmit messages between brain cells. The most commonly prescribed stimulants include methylphenidate and Atomoxetine.
Finding the right dose and dosage can take a lot of trial and error. Honest, open communication with your doctor is essential.
Stimulants
The stimulant drugs prescribed to treat ADHD boost the levels of the hormones dopamine as well as noradrenaline. The exact mechanism behind this isn't clear, but the result is that attention and memory improve and hyperactivity reduces. The medication does not treat ADHD, however. They aid people in functioning within the society that isn't always designed for those who have neurodivergent minds.
The majority of stimulants are controlled substances and doctors must monitor the person taking them to make sure they do not cause side effects such as a sudden decrease in energy, appetite suppression and sleep issues, as well as shakiness. It can take a while to determine the appropriate medication, dosage and treatment. It is essential that the person with ADHD keeps regular appointments with their doctor.
The dosage of stimulant medication is different for adults and children. Doctors may suggest lifestyle modifications to supplement the medication and assist people with ADHD learn strategies for managing their symptoms. A psychiatric nurse or social worker might be part of the treatment team, too.
ADHD and mood disorders such as dysthymia or depression can often coexist. Typically, clinicians treat the mood disorder first, and then revisit the ADHD symptoms. This is because the underlying condition can affect the way that a person acts and it is more beneficial to address the root issue rather than try to treat the symptoms away.
The medication is helpful, but they are not an all-encompassing solution. They should be combined with other treatments, for example, cognitive behavior therapy, psychosocial work training in parenting skills, exercise as well as diet and nutrition counseling. A recent survey revealed that only 41 percent of parents were completely happy with the ADHD medication their child was taking.
The stimulants could have adverse side 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.
best adhd medication for adults used medications to treat ADHD are methylphenidates and amphetamines, which are available both as prescriptions and over-the-counter. They are available in extended-release formulations, which can be taken every day in the morning for six to eight hours. Many people supplement these long-acting drugs by taking tablets that have immediate release between mid and late afternoon. The extra tablet helps to keep track of the time that the first medication is fading and avoids a sudden drop in motivation and energy. In addition to helping with concentration and focus, a few people claim that their ADHD medications allow them to fall asleep at night more easily because the meds quiet the racing thoughts that kept them awake before. This could be a sign that the medication is working. Many people also report that the initial symptoms of ADHD improve as they get older.