How Does ADHD Medication Work?
Medicines help to reduce ADHD symptoms by increasing levels of the chemicals dopamine and noradrenaline which transmit messages between brain cells. The most commonly prescribed stimulants are methylphenidate, the atomoxetine and the glycine.
Finding the right dosage and medication can take a lot of trial and error. Honest, open communication with your doctor is essential.
Stimulants
The stimulant drugs prescribed for ADHD boost the levels of the hormones dopamine and noradrenaline. It is unclear how these drugs work, however, they can enhance attention and memory and decrease hyperactivity. The medications do not cure ADHD however. They are a tool to aid people to function in a society that is typically not designed for people with neurodivergent brains.
The majority of stimulants are controlled substances and doctors must be able to observe the person who is taking them to ensure they don't cause any adverse effects such as an abrupt decrease in energy, appetite suppression, and shakiness, or sleep issues. It may take some time to determine the appropriate dosage and medication and it is crucial for those suffering from ADHD to make regular appointments with their healthcare provider.
The dosage of stimulant medication is different for adults and children, and dosages differ for both. Doctors may recommend lifestyle interventions as an alternative to medications, and to assist people suffering from ADHD understand how to manage their symptoms. A psychiatric nurse or social worker may be involved in the treatment team, as well.
ADHD and mood disorders like dysthymia and depression are often co-existing. Typically, doctors treat the mood disorder first and then revisit the ADHD symptoms. The underlying condition may affect the person's behavior so it is better to treat the underlying issue rather than medicate away the symptoms.
The medication is helpful, however they aren't the only solution. They should be combined alongside other treatments, like cognitive behavior therapy, psychosocial work, parenting skills training, exercise as well as nutrition and diet counseling. A recent survey found that only 41 percent of parents were completely happy with the ADHD medication their child was taking.
Stimulants can have negative side effects such as addiction and abuse. If adult adhd medication uk are misused -- injected or smoked, taken in higher-than-prescribed amounts or by people who do not have ADHD, such as methamphetamine (meth) and cocaine, or abused in the form of "bath salts" that contain synthetic cathinones -- the results can be extremely dangerous.
The most popular medications used to treat ADHD are methylphenidates as well as amphetamines, which are available as prescriptions as well as over-the-counter. These drugs are available in extended-release formulations that can be taken each day in the morning, for between six and eight hours. Many people supplement these medications by taking tablets that have immediate release between mid and late afternoon. The additional tablet helps to cover the time between the initial medication taking effect and stops an abrupt decline in motivation and energy. Some claim that ADHD medication can help to sleep more easily in the evening because it calms the racing thoughts. This could be a sign that the medication is working. Additionally, a lot of people say that the onset of their ADHD symptoms improves as they age.
