How Does ADHD Medication Work?
Medicines reduce ADHD symptoms by increasing levels of the chemicals dopamine and noradrenaline that pass messages between brain cells. The most commonly prescribed stimulants are methylphenidate the atomoxetine and the glycine.
Finding non stimulant adhd medication and medication can be a trial and error process. Honest, open communication with your doctor is crucial.
Stimulants
The stimulant medications prescribed for ADHD increase levels of the hormones dopamine as well as noradrenaline. How exactly they accomplish this is not clear but the result is that attention and memory improve and hyperactivity reduces. However, these medications do not solve ADHD. They aid people in functioning within the society that isn't always designed for those who have neurodivergent minds.
Most stimulants are controlled drugs and therefore doctors must be able to monitor the person taking them for side effects like a sudden drop of energy, a decrease in appetite and shakiness, as well as sleep issues. It can take a while to determine the appropriate dosage and medication and it is crucial for the person with ADHD to attend regular appointments with their doctor.
The dosage of stimulant medications differs for children and adults. Doctors may recommend lifestyle modifications as an alternative to medication, and to help people with ADHD learn how best manage their symptoms. A psychiatrist social worker or nurse may also be part of the treatment team.
It is not uncommon for mood disorders such as dysthymia and depression to be co-existent with ADHD. Typically, doctors treat the mood disorder, and then evaluate the ADHD symptoms. This is because the root disorder can impact the way that a person acts and is therefore better to address the root problem rather than trying to treat the symptoms away.
While the drugs are effective, they are not the only solution and should be used in conjunction with other treatments such as psychosocial work, parenting skills training, physical fitness, and nutrition and diet counseling. In fact, a recent survey of parents found that just 41 percent were highly satisfied with their child's ADHD medications and just 25 percent were extremely satisfied.
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.
Amphetamines and methylphenidates are the most commonly prescribed medications to treat ADHD. They are also available for purchase over the counter. Certain people suffering from ADHD benefit from extended-release formulations of these medications which are usually taken every day in the morning and last for six to eight hours. Many people use tablets for immediate release in the late afternoon to boost the effectiveness of these medication. The additional tablet helps to cover the period between the first medication wearing off and prevents an abrupt decrease in energy and motivation. Some individuals claim that ADHD medication helps them fall asleep more easily in the evening because it calms the racing thoughts. This could be a sign that the medication is working. Additionally, many say that the beginning of their ADHD symptoms diminishes as they grow older.