How Does Medication For ADHD Work?
Many children and adults find ADHD medication helps improve their ability to focus, control impulses and become organized. Your doctor will decide the best medication for your child after a consultation with you.
Stimulants are the first-line treatment for ADHD. They increase levels of norepinephrine, and dopamine.
Stimulants
Stimulant medications for ADHD help by increasing levels of certain brain chemicals (called neurotransmitters). This can help reduce symptoms, increases the duration of attention and improves behavior. It may take some time to determine the appropriate medication and dose for you.
Whatever medication you or your child takes it is important to ensure that they are taken according to the prescriptions of your physician. Intaking too either too much or not enough can cause serious harm. It is also essential to take your medication at the same time each day to ensure a consistent dosage of medication within the body. Children being treated for ADHD should be helped to stick to a routine and often require assistance with this from teachers, parents and other caregivers.
Stimulants are among the most popular medications used to treat ADHD. These are medications that boost activity in the brain, particularly in areas that regulate behavior and attention. These are the first therapies that doctors test, and they work well for 70% to the 80% of children and adults suffering from ADHD. Stimulants can reduce fidgeting, hyperactivity, and interrupting. They also improve the school's performance and behavior. They can also help with problems at home as well as in relationships.
Methylphenidate also known as Ritalin, is the most commonly used stimulant medication for ADHD. It is available in short-acting tablet form that starts working within 30 to 60 minutes and is gone after 3 to 4 hours. It's also available in long-acting tablets, which are designed to be taken once a day in the morning, and last between six and eight hours. Many people will supplement the long-acting tablet with a shorter tablet in the afternoon to avoid "crash" that could occur when the stimulant begins to wear off.
The other main type of ADHD medication is amphetamines, which are stronger and can last longer than methylphenidate medication. Examples of these are Adderall and Dexedrine. They can be consumed in chewable tablets or liquid form and are generally suitable for teenagers of older age or adults who don't have issues with the way the medication tastes.
Both stimulants can trigger side effects like headaches, nausea and trouble sleeping. They can also raise the heart rate and blood pressure in some people.
Nonstimulants
Nonstimulant medicines for ADHD, such as Guanfacine and atomoxetine, alter how chemical messengers in the brain function. They are less likely to cause you feel "high" or buzzed. They are also less likely to cause dependence or abuse. They can be useful for those who can't take stimulants, or as part of the treatment plan along with lifestyle changes and skills training.
There is some debate on the effectiveness of these drugs, as some studies show that they don't improve academic performance of students with ADHD. The majority of young people with ADHD who are taking these medications say that they have increased their ability to focus and complete tasks, as well as manage their emotions. adhd and medication say that their social and relationships are improved and they feel happier overall.