How Does Medication For ADHD Work?
Stimulants enhance your ability to concentrate and control impulses by increasing levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in your brain. They are available in both immediate-release (short acting) and extended release tablets. They can be taken once daily in the morning.
Nonstimulant drugs take longer to work but can also improve the ability to control impulses and attention. Atomoxetine (Strattera) and Guanfacine (Viloxazine) are part of the antidepressant class and boost levels of norepinephrine.
Stimulants
Most commonly prescribed ADHD medication includes stimulants such as dexamphetamine, methylphenidate and Lisdexamfetamine. These drugs increase the levels of norepinephrine as well as dopamine in the brain. These neurotransmitters aid the prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for the planning and organization of tasks. The stimulants help reduce ADHD symptoms in around 70% to 80% of children and adults who use them. The symptoms include fidgeting and yelling at others. They can also cause the inability to finish or completing tasks, as well as difficulty in working through tasks. The medications can also ease social problems such as not being capable of listening to others and having trouble keeping promises.
The effects of medications begin as soon as they cross the blood-brain barrier, which can take between 45 and 60 minutes. This is why patients notice changes almost immediately. A doctor may increase the dose slowly over a period of three or four weeks for children. Parents and teachers can provide feedback on the effectiveness of the medication during this time. Doctors can also observe the effects by using scales like the Connor global index score which measures a child's performance against other children of the same gender and age who don't have ADHD.
The doctor will go over with the patient and their family members the risks and benefits as well as negative side effects of different medications. It is important to tell the truth, especially if you don't see any improvement in your condition with your medication. The GP will then suggest another treatment option.
Non-stimulant drugs
ADHD can be treated using a variety of other medication. Certain are antidepressants, such as bupropion (Wellbutrin), which is a neurotransmitter stimulant that increases dopamine and norepinephrine, as well as other older medications such as tricyclics. These drugs are less likely to cause side effects, but can take a while to work.
Disorders of the mind
Mental disorders, like depression and anxiety, may be co-occurring with ADHD and make it difficult for patients to get the best results from their medication. In many instances, a physician will treat the mood disorder and review their patient.
Abuse
Particularly among teenagers and adolescents who use stimulant drugs to boost energy or weight loss effects These drugs are a source of abuse. They are also susceptible to abuse in those who have an alcohol or drug misuse, or a personal or family history of mental health issues such as bipolar disorder.
It is frustrating to not get immediate results from ADHD medication. It is important to remember, however, that many sufferers will need to test several different kinds of medication before they discover one that relieves their symptoms. It is essential to continue taking the medication for as long as you are able, and to visit your GP regularly to check your progress and watch for any side effects. The GP will then decide if a dosage increase is necessary or if it's time switch to a new medication. adult adhd medication can help identify the behavioral and lifestyle changes that may enhance the effects of medication.