How Does ADHD Medication Work?
The drugs reduce ADHD symptoms by increasing levels of Dopamine and Noradrenaline. These are chemicals that transmit messages between brain cells. The most frequently prescribed stimulants include methylphenidate and the atomoxetine.
Finding the right dose and dosage can require a lot trial and trial and. Open, honest communication with your doctor is essential.
Stimulants
The stimulant drugs prescribed to treat ADHD boost levels of the hormones dopamine as well as noradrenaline. It isn't clear how the drugs work however they do improve memory and attention and reduce hyperactivity. However, non stimulant adhd medication do not cure ADHD. They aid people in functioning within a society which is not always designed for those with neurodivergent brains.
The majority of stimulants are controlled drugs, so doctors must monitor the person taking them for any side effects such as sudden drops in energy, a decrease in appetite, shakiness, or sleep problems. It can take time to determine the appropriate medication and dose and it is crucial for people suffering from ADHD to attend regular appointments with their healthcare provider.
The dosage of stimulant medication is different for children and adults, and the dosages vary. Doctors may recommend lifestyle interventions to supplement the medication and assist people with ADHD learn strategies for managing their symptoms. A nurse or social worker for psychiatric disorders could also be part of the treatment team.
It is common for mood disorders like dysthymia and depression to coexist with ADHD. Typically, doctors treat the mood disorder first, and then revisit the ADHD symptoms. This is because the underlying disorder can impact the way the person behaves and it is more beneficial to address the root problem rather than trying to treat the symptoms away.
Although the medication can be beneficial but they aren't a panacea and should be utilized in combination with other treatments like cognitive behavioral therapy, psychosocial work and parenting skills training, physical exercise, and diet and nutrition counseling. In fact an enumeration of parents found that just 41 percent were very satisfied with their child's ADHD medications, while only 25 percent were extremely happy.
Some stimulants can cause undesirable adverse 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 over-the-counter. These medications are available in extended-release formulas, that can be taken daily in the morning for between six and eight hours. Many people supplement these long-acting drugs with tablets that release immediately in the mid or late afternoon. The extra tablet helps to cover the time when the first medication wears off and avoids a sudden drop in energy and motivation. Some people say that ADHD medication can help people fall asleep faster in the evening because it calms the racing thoughts. This could indicate that the medication is working. Many people also report that the symptoms of ADHD improve as they age.