How Does ADHD Medication Work?
The drugs help reduce ADHD symptoms by increasing levels of Dopamine and Noradrenaline. These are chemicals that transmit messages between brain cells. The most commonly prescribed stimulants are methylphenidate and the atomoxetine.
Finding the right dosage and medication can require a lot trial and error. Your doctor's communication with you should be honest and open.
Stimulants
The stimulant medications prescribed for ADHD increase levels of the hormones dopamine and noradrenaline. It is not clear how the drugs work, however they do improve memory and attention and reduce hyperactivity. The drugs do not cure ADHD, however. They are used to aid people in functioning within a society which is not always designed for those who have neurodivergent minds.
Most stimulants are controlled substances, and doctors must observe the person taking them to make sure they do not cause side effects such as a sudden loss of energy, appetite suppression, and shakiness or sleep problems. It may take some time to find the right dosage and medication and it is crucial for those suffering from ADHD to make regular sessions with their healthcare professional.
non stimulant adhd medication are different for adults and children and the dosages vary. Doctors may suggest lifestyle modifications to complement the medication and assist people with ADHD develop strategies for managing their symptoms. A social worker or psychiatric nurse could be part of the treatment team, too.
ADHD and mood disorders like dysthymia or depression can often coexist. Typically, the clinician treats the mood disorder first and then revisit the ADHD symptoms. This is because the underlying condition may affect the way a person behaves and is therefore better to address the root of the issue than try to medicate the symptoms away.
While the drugs can be beneficial but they aren't an all-encompassing solution and should be utilized in combination with other treatments like psychosocial work and parenting skills training, physical exercise and diet and nutrition counseling. A recent survey found that only 41 per cent of parents were completely satisfied with the ADHD medication their child was taking.
Stimulants can have negative 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.
The most popular medications used to treat ADHD are the methylphenidates and amphetamines. They are available as prescriptions as well as over-the-counter. These drugs are available in extended-release formulations that can be taken every day in the morning for between six and eight hours. Many people use tablets for immediate release in the afternoon to complement these long-acting medication. The extra tablet helps to cover the time when the first medication wears off and avoids a sudden drop in motivation and energy. Some people say that ADHD medication can help them fall asleep more easily at night due to it calming the racing thoughts. This can be an indication that the medication is working. In addition, many people report that they find the appearance of their ADHD symptoms decreases as they grow older.
