How Does ADHD Medication Work?
Medications reduce ADHD symptoms by increasing levels of the chemicals noradrenaline and dopamine that pass messages between brain cells. The most commonly prescribed stimulants are methylphenidate, the atomoxetine and the glycine.
Finding the right dosage and medication will require a lot of trial and error. adhd medication with your doctor should be open and honest.
Stimulants
The stimulant drugs prescribed to treat ADHD increase levels of dopamine and Naradrenaline. The exact mechanism behind this isn't clear however the end result is that memory and attention improve and hyperactivity reduces. The medications do not treat ADHD however. They assist people to function in a society which is not always set up for people with neurodivergent brains.
The majority of stimulants are controlled substances and doctors must observe the person using them to ensure they do not cause side consequences such as a sudden drop in energy, a decrease in appetite, and shakiness or sleep problems. It can take time to determine the appropriate medication and dose and it is essential for the person with ADHD to keep regular appointments with their healthcare provider.
The dosage of stimulant medication is different for adults and children, and the dosages vary. Doctors may recommend lifestyle interventions to supplement the medication and help those with ADHD discover strategies to manage their symptoms. A psychiatric 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 coexist with ADHD. Typically, doctors treat the mood disorder first and then review the ADHD symptoms. The underlying condition may affect the person's behavior so it is better to address the root of the issue rather than medicate away the symptoms.
see this site is helpful, but they are not a panacea. They should be used with other treatments, for example, cognitive behavior therapy, psychosocial work and parenting skills training exercise as well as nutrition and diet counseling. In fact, a recent survey of parents revealed that only 41 percent of them were very satisfied with their child's ADHD medications and just 25 percent were extremely happy.
The stimulants may have undesirable negative side effects, 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 commonly used medications to treat ADHD are methylphenidates as well as amphetamines. They are available both on prescription and over-the-counter. Certain individuals with ADHD benefit from extended-release versions of these drugs that are typically taken once a day in the morning and last six to eight hours. Many people supplement these medications by taking tablets that have immediate release in the mid to late afternoon. The additional tablet helps to cover the time between the first medication taking effect and stops an abrupt decrease in energy and motivation. Some individuals claim that ADHD medication helps people fall asleep faster at night because it quiets the racing thoughts. This can be a sign that the medication is working. Additionally, a lot of people report that they find the onset of their ADHD symptoms improves as they grow older.