How Does Medication For ADHD Work?
Stimulants can enhance your attention and impulse control by increasing levels of dopamine and norepinephrine within your brain. They are available in both immediate-release (short acting) and extended release tablets, which are taken every day in the morning.
Nonstimulant medications have a longer time to work, but can also improve concentration and control of impulses. Atomoxetine (Strattera) and Guanfacine (Viloxazine) are part of the class of antidepressants and increase levels of norepinephrine.
Stimulants
The most commonly prescribed ADHD medications contain stimulants like dexamphetamine, methylphenidate and the lisdexamfetamine. These drugs increase the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. These neurotransmitters aid the prefrontal cortex, which is responsible the process of planning and organizing tasks. The stimulants help reduce ADHD symptoms in around 70 percent to 80% children and adults who take them. The symptoms include fidgeting or yelling at other people, forgetfulness and difficulties finishing or completing tasks. The medication can also help reduce social issues like not being capable of listening to others and having trouble keeping promises.
The medication begins to work as soon it crosses the blood-brain barrier, which takes between 45 and 60 minutes. This is why patients notice changes almost immediately. For children, a doctor may use a "start low and then increase" approach and gradually increase the dosage over a period of three or four weeks. During this period, teachers and parents can provide feedback about whether the medication is helping. GPs can also monitor the effects of medication 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 GP will discuss with the patient and their family the risks and benefits as well as adverse effects that are associated with various medications. Main Page is important to tell the truth, particularly in the event that you don't experience any improvement with your medication. The GP may suggest an alternative treatment.
Non-stimulant drugs
Many other medications are also used to treat ADHD. Bupropion (Wellbutrin) is an antidepressant that boosts the neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine, is one of these medications. Other older medications, like tricyclics, are also utilized. They are less likely to cause side effects than stimulants, but they may take a long time to work.
Disorders of the psychiatric spectrum
Disorders of the mind, such as depression and anxiety, may be co-occurring with ADHD and make it more difficult for patients to get the most benefit from their medications. In many instances, the physician will decide to treat the mood disorder first, and then review the patient.
Abuse
Particularly among adolescents and teens who are taking stimulant medication to boost energy or weight loss effects, these drugs can be abused. People with a history of addiction to drugs or alcohol, or mental health issues like bipolar disorder are more likely to abuse stimulant drugs.
It can be frustrating to not get immediate results from ADHD medication. It is important to remember, however, that many people will need to test several different types of medication before they can find one that relieves their symptoms. It is essential to take the medication as long as you are able, and to visit your GP regularly to monitor your progress and to watch for any potential side effects. These will assist the GP determine whether the dosage currently being used is optimal or needs to be increased, or if the medication needs to be switched to a different type or combination of medications. The GP can also help identify changes in behavior and lifestyle that may enhance the effects of medication.
