How Does Medication For ADHD Work?
medication for adult adhd increase your ability to focus 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 taken once a day, typically in the morning.
Nonstimulant medications are more difficult to use but they can also enhance attention and impulse control. Atomoxetine, Viloxazine and guanfacine are antidepressants that increase norepinephrine levels.
Stimulants
The most commonly prescribed ADHD medications include stimulants like dexamphetamine methylphenidate and Lisdexamfetamine. These drugs increase the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. These neurotransmitters help the prefrontal cortex in planning, organizing and executing tasks. Stimulants can reduce ADHD symptoms in 70 percent to 80% children and adults who use them. These symptoms include fidgeting or yelling at other people, forgetfulness and difficulties finishing or completing tasks. The medication can also help reduce social problems such as not being in a position to listen to others and having difficulty keeping promises.
The medication begins to work as soon it crosses the blood-brain barriers which can take between 45 and 60 minutes. This is why people don't notice changes in their brains right away. For children, a physician may use a "start low and then increase" approach, increasing the dose gradually over three or four weeks. Teachers and parents can give feedback on the efficacy of the medication during this period. GPs can assess the effects using scales like the Connor Global Index score which measures a child's performance against other kids similar in age and gender without ADHD.
The doctor will go over with the patient and their family the risks, benefits and negative side effects of different medications. It is crucial to speak the truth, especially if you don't see any improvement in your condition with your medication. The GP may suggest alternative treatment.
Non-stimulant drugs
A variety of other medications are also used to treat ADHD. Certain are antidepressants, such as bupropion (Wellbutrin) that works by increasing the neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine, and other older medications such as tricyclics. They are less likely to cause side effects than stimulants, however they can take longer to take effect.
Psychiatric disorders
Psychiatric disorders such as depression and anxiety can be co-occurring with ADHD and make it difficult for patients to get the best results possible from their treatment. In many instances, the doctor will decide to treat the mood disorder first, and then assess the patient again.
Abuse
These medications can be misused especially among teens and teenagers who often take them for their high energy or weight-loss properties. They are also susceptible to abuse in people with an alcohol or drug abuse, or with a family or personal history of mental health issues like bipolar disorder.
medications for adhd can be disappointing to not notice immediate results from ADHD medication. It is important to remember that a lot of sufferers will need to test several different kinds of medication before they discover one that eases their symptoms. It is crucial to take the medication as long as you can, and to visit your GP frequently to keep track of your progress and look out for any potential side consequences. These visits will aid the GP determine if the current dosage is sufficient or should be increased, or if the medication needs to be switched to a different type or combination of medications. GPs can also help to determine changes in lifestyle and behavior that may enhance the effects of the medication.