How Does Medication For ADHD Work?
Many adults and kids find ADHD medication helps them improve their ability to focus and control their impulses, as well as become organized. Your healthcare provider will collaborate with you and your child to determine the most effective treatment for them.
Stimulants are the first-line treatment for ADHD. They boost levels of dopamine and norepinephrine.
Stimulants
Stimulant medications for ADHD work by increasing the levels of certain brain chemicals (called neurotransmitters). This decreases symptoms, and increases the quality of life and improves attention. Different medications affect people in different ways, and it may take a while to find the appropriate one(s) and the best dose(s).
Whichever adhd and anxiety medication or your child is taking, they should always be taken according to the instructions of your physician. Too much or insufficient medication could cause serious side effects. It is important to take your medication at the same time every day to ensure a consistent dosage of medication within the body. It is crucial to assist children with ADHD to maintain a regular routine. Teachers, parents, and other caregivers may assist.
The majority of the drugs used to treat ADHD are called stimulants. These drugs increase brain activity, especially in areas that regulate attention and behaviour. These are the first therapies that doctors try and they are effective for 70 to 80percent of children and adults suffering from ADHD. Stimulants can reduce the amount of fidgeting, hyperactivity and interrupting. They also improve school performance and behaviour. They can also aid in tackling problems at home as well as in relationships.
Methylphenidate (formerly Ritalin) is the most commonly prescribed stimulant medication to treat ADHD. It is available in tablets that begin working in 30 to 60 minutes and disappears after 3 to 4 hours. It's also available in long-acting tablets, which are designed to be taken every day in the morning, and last from six to eight hours. Many people combine a long acting tablet with a smaller one in the afternoon to avoid the "crash" that occurs when the stimulant starts to wear off.
Amphétamines are another major type of ADHD medication. They are more powerful than methylphenidate, and they can last for a longer time. Adderall and Dexedrine are examples. They can be taken in tablet or liquid form and are generally appropriate for older teens or adults who don't have issues with the way the medicine tastes.
Both types of stimulants may cause adverse effects, such as loss of appetite, headaches and trouble sleeping. Certain people may also experience an increase in heartbeat and blood pressure.
Non-stimulants
Non-stimulant ADHD drugs, like atomoxetine or guanfacine change the way that chemical messengers function in the brain and are less likely than stimulant drugs to make you "high" and buzzed. They are also less likely to trigger addiction or abuse. They are suitable for those who cannot take stimulants or as a part of an treatment plan that includes lifestyle changes and training.
There is some debate over how well they work, as some studies show that they don't help improve academic performance for students suffering from ADHD. The majority of young people with ADHD who are taking these medications report that they have improved their ability to focus and finish tasks, and also manage their emotions. They also report improvement in their social life, relationships and overall happiness.