How Does Medication For ADHD Work?
Many adults and kids find ADHD medication helps improve their ability to concentrate and control their impulses, as well as organize themselves. Your doctor will decide the best medication for your child in consultation with you.
Stimulants are the first-line treatment for ADHD. They boost levels of dopamine and norepinephrine.
Stimulants
The stimulant medications used to treat ADHD are effective by increasing levels of certain brain chemicals (called neurotransmitters). This reduces symptoms, improves attention span and improves the way you behave. Different medicines affect people in different ways and it may take a while to find the right one(s) and the most effective dose(s).
Whatever medication you or your children are taking it is crucial to follow the doctor's instructions. Too much or insufficient medication can cause serious adverse effects. It is important to take your medication at the same time each day to ensure a consistent level of medication in the body. Children who are being treated for ADHD should be encouraged to adhere to a schedule and often need help with this from teachers, parents and other caregivers.
The majority of the drugs used to treat ADHD are referred to as stimulants. These medications stimulate brain activity, specifically in areas that control the behavior and attention. These are the first treatments that doctors test, and they work well for 70 to 80percent of children and adults with ADHD. Stimulants reduce hyperactivity, fidgeting, and interrupting. They also improve school performance and behavior. They also can help with issues at home and in relationships.
Methylphenidate (formerly Ritalin) is the most frequently prescribed stimulant medication used to treat ADHD. It's available as short-acting tablets that start working within 30 to 45 minutes after being taken, and then fade after three to four hours. Long-acting tablets are also available. They are designed to last for six to eight hours and are taken in the morning. Many people prefer to supplement an active tablet with a short-acting version in the afternoon, to avoid the "crash" that can occur when the stimulant begins to wear off.
Amphétamines are a significant kind of ADHD medication. They are more powerful than methylphenidate, and they can last longer. Adderall and Dexedrine are two such examples. They can be taken in the form of chewable tablets or liquids and are more suitable for older teens or adults who don't have issues with the way the medicine tastes.
Both kinds of stimulants can cause side effects, like headaches, nausea and trouble sleeping. medication for adhd can also raise blood pressure and heart rate in certain people.
Nonstimulants
Nonstimulant medicines for ADHD like guanfacine and atomoxetine, change how chemical messengers in the brain work and are less likely to cause you feel "high" or buzzed. They also carry an lower risk of dependence or abuse. They are beneficial for people who aren't able to take stimulants or as part a treatment plan alongside the need to change your lifestyle and learn skills.
There is some debate about how well they work because some studies have shown that they do not improve academic performance of students with ADHD. However, most young people with ADHD who take these drugs say that they improve their ability to focus on tasks, complete them and manage their emotions. They also say that their social life and relationships improve and that they are happier overall.