15 Things You've Never Known About Does ADHD Medication Work
How Does ADHD Medication Work?
Medicines reduce ADHD symptoms by increasing the levels of chemicals dopamine and noradrenaline which pass messages between brain cells. The most commonly prescribed stimulants include methylphenidate and the atomoxetine.
Finding the right dosage and medication can be a trial and error process. Your doctor's communication with you should be honest and open.
Stimulants
The stimulant drugs prescribed to treat ADHD increase levels of dopamine and Naradrenaline. It is not clear how the drugs work, however, they can enhance attention and memory and decrease hyperactivity. The drugs do not treat ADHD, however. They're a tool that can help people function in a society that's often not set up for those with neurodivergent brains.
The majority of stimulants are controlled drugs and therefore doctors must be able to monitor the person taking them for side effects such as an abrupt drop in energy, a reduction in appetite and shakiness, as well as sleep issues. It can take time to determine the correct medication and dose and it is essential for people suffering from ADHD to make regular appointments with their doctor.
The dosage of stimulant medication is different for children and adults, and the dosages vary. Doctors may suggest lifestyle modifications to supplement the medication and help people with ADHD learn strategies for managing their symptoms. A nurse or social worker for psychiatric disorders may also be part of the treatment team.
ADHD and mood disorders such as dysthymia and depression are often co-existing. Typically, the clinician will treat the mood disorder first and then evaluate the ADHD symptoms. This is because the underlying condition can affect the way that a person acts, and it is better to address the root issue than try to medicate the symptoms away.
While the drugs are effective however, they aren't a panacea and should be utilized in combination with other treatments, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, psychosocial work and parenting training, physical exercise and diet and nutrition counseling. A recent study found that only 41 percent of parents were very satisfied with the ADHD medication their child was taking.
The stimulants could have adverse side effects such as addiction and abuse. If they 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 common medications used to treat ADHD are methylphenidates and amphetamines, which are available as prescriptions as well as over-the-counter. Certain individuals with ADHD benefit from extended-release formulations of these medications that are typically taken every day in the morning, and last from six to eight hours. Many people take tablets that release immediately in the late afternoon to boost the effectiveness of these medication. The extra tablet covers the time between the first medication wearing off and prevents an abrupt decrease in motivation and energy. In addition to helping with concentration and focus, some people claim that their ADHD meds allow them to sleep in the evening more easily since the meds quiet the racing thoughts that kept them awake before. This could indicate that the medication is effective. related web site that the initial symptoms of ADHD improve as they get older.