How Does Medication For ADHD Work?
Stimulants increase your ability to concentrate and control impulses by increasing levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in your brain. They are available in immediate-release (short acting) and extended release tablets that can be taken once daily in the morning.
Nonstimulant medications can improve concentration and impulse control however they take longer to work. Atomoxetine, Viloxazine and guanfacine are antidepressants that increase norepinephrine levels.
Stimulants
The most frequently used ADHD drugs are stimulants, such as dexamphetamine (Dexedrine), methylphenidate (Ritalin) and Lisdexamfetamine (Focalin). These medications increase the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. These neurotransmitters help the prefrontal cortex in the planning, organizing and execution of tasks. The stimulants can help reduce ADHD symptoms for up to 90% of children and adults who are taking them. The symptoms include fidgeting and yelling over other people. They can also cause forgetfulness, difficulty finishing or completing tasks, and difficulty in working through tasks. The medications can also ease social issues like not being able to listen to others and having trouble keeping promises.
The medication begins to work once it has crossed the blood-brain boundaries which can take between 45 to 60 minutes. This is why patients notice changes almost immediately. A doctor may increase the dosage slowly over the course of three or four weeks for children. During this time teachers and parents can give feedback on whether the medication is assisting. GPs can also monitor the effects by using scales such as the Connor global index score, which measures the child's performance in comparison to other children of the same gender and age who don't have ADHD.
medication for adults with add will discuss with the patient and their family members the risks and benefits as well as negative side effects of different medications. It is essential to be open, especially if the medication doesn't seem to have any effect. The GP will then suggest a different treatment option.
Non-stimulant drugs
ADHD can also be treated with a variety of other medications. Bupropion (Wellbutrin) is an antidepressant which increases the neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine is among these medications. Other older medications, such as tricyclics are also used. They are less likely to cause side effects than stimulants, but they may take an extended time to take effect.
Psychiatric disorders
Psychiatric disorders, such as depression and anxiety, can coexist with ADHD and make it more difficult for patients to achieve the most benefit from their medication. In many cases, a clinician will treat the mood disorder and then reassess their patient.
Abuse
These medications can be misused especially among teens and adolescents, who are often prescribed them due to their high energy or weight-loss properties. People with a history of addiction to drugs or alcohol or mental health issues like bipolar disorder are more likely to misuse stimulant drugs.
It is frustrating not to see immediate effects from ADHD medication. But it is important to remember that most patients will have to try different types of medication before finding one that offers relief from their symptoms. It is important to continue taking the medication as long as you are able, and to visit your GP regularly to monitor your progress and to watch for any potential side effects. The GP will then decide if it's necessary to increase the dosage or if it's time to change medications. The GP can also help identify changes in behavior and lifestyle that may enhance the effects of medication.