How Does Medication For ADHD Work?
Many kids and adults discover that ADHD medication can help improve their ability to concentrate, control impulses and become organized. Your doctor will decide the most appropriate medication for your child after a consultation with you.
Stimulants are the first line treatment for ADHD. They increase levels of norepinephrine, and dopamine.
Stimulants
Stimulant medications for ADHD are effective by increasing levels of certain chemicals in the brain (called neurotransmitters). This reduces symptoms, improves the quality of life and improves attention. It can take some time to find the right medicine and dose for you.
Whatever medication you or your child consumes, they should always be taken according to the instructions of your doctor. Taking too either too much or not enough could have a negative impact on your health. It's also crucial to take the medication at the same time each day, to keep the level of medication steady within the body. Children being treated for ADHD must be assisted to adhere to a schedule and often need help with this from teachers, parents, and other caregivers.
Stimulants are the most commonly used treatments for ADHD. These drugs boost brain activity, particularly in areas that regulate attention and behaviour. They are the first therapy that doctors attempt and are effective for 70 to the 80% of children and adults with ADHD. The stimulants help reduce fidgeting, hyperactivity, and interrupting. They also help improve school performance and behavior. They can also help with relationship problems and home problems.
Methylphenidate (formerly Ritalin) is the most frequently prescribed stimulant medication for treating ADHD. It's available in tablets with short-acting properties that begin working within 30 to 45 minutes of taking them and fade after three to four hours. It's also available in long-acting tablets that are designed to be consumed every day in the morning, and last between six and eight hours. Many people prefer to supplement a long-acting tablet with a shorter-acting one in the late afternoon to prevent the "crash" that may occur when the stimulant begins to wear off.
The other type of ADHD medication is amphetamines, which are stronger and last longer than methylphenidate drugs. natural adhd medication and Dexedrine are two such examples. They can be consumed in chewable tablets or liquid form, and are typically appropriate for older teens or adults who don't have a problem with the way the medication tastes.
Both stimulants can trigger side-effects such as headaches, loss of appetite and trouble sleeping. Certain people may also experience an increase in blood pressure and heartbeat.
Nonstimulants
Nonstimulant medicines for ADHD such as guanfacine and atomoxetine, change how chemical messengers within the brain function. They are less likely to make you feel "high" or buzzed. They also carry a lower chance of addiction or abuse. They can be used by those who are not able to use stimulants, or as part of a treatment plan along with modifications to lifestyle and skills training.
There is some debate over the effectiveness of these drugs because some studies have shown that they don't improve academic performance of students with ADHD. However, most young people with ADHD who use these drugs say that they improve their ability to concentrate and complete tasks, as well as manage their emotions. They also report an improvement in their social life and relationships, as well as overall happiness.