How Does ADHD Medication Work?
Medications help to reduce ADHD symptoms by increasing levels of the chemicals noradrenaline and dopamine that transmit messages between brain cells. The most frequently prescribed stimulants include methylphenidate and atomoxetine.
Finding the right dosage and medication can be a trial-and error process. best adhd medication for adults that is honest and open with your doctor is key.
Stimulants
The stimulant medications prescribed to treat ADHD increase levels of dopamine and naradrenaline. It is unclear how the drugs work, however they do improve attention and memory, and reduce hyperactivity. However, these medications are not able to solve ADHD. They are used to aid people in functioning within a society which is not always set up for people with neurodivergent brains.
adhd stimulant medication are controlled drugs, so doctors must monitor the person taking them for side effects like sudden drops in energy, a decrease in appetite and shakiness or sleep problems. It can take a while to determine the appropriate medication and dose and it is essential for the person with ADHD to attend regular appointments with their healthcare provider.
The dosage of stimulant drugs differs for children and adults. Doctors may suggest lifestyle modifications to complement the medication and assist people with ADHD discover strategies to manage their symptoms. A psychiatric nurse or social worker may be involved in the treatment team, too.
It is common for mood disorders like dysthymia and depression to be co-existent with ADHD. Typically, doctors treat the mood disorder first and then evaluate the ADHD symptoms. The underlying condition may alter the person's behavior and behavior, therefore it is recommended to address the root of the issue rather than treating the symptoms.
The drugs are beneficial, but they aren't the only solution. They should be used alongside other treatments, such as psychosocial work, parenting skills training, exercise, and diet and nutrition counseling. In fact an enumeration of parents found that just 41 percent were highly satisfied with their child's ADHD medications and just 25 percent were very satisfied.
Stimulants may 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.
Amphetamines as well as methylphenidates are the most common medications prescribed to treat ADHD. They are also available on the market. Certain people suffering from ADHD benefit from extended-release versions of these medications which are usually taken every day in the morning and last six to eight hours. Many people use tablets for immediate release in the late afternoon to boost the effectiveness of these medications. The additional tablet helps to cover the period between the first medication wearing off and prevents an abrupt drop in energy and motivation. In addition to helping with concentration and focus, a few people claim that their ADHD medications allow them to fall asleep in the evening more easily since the medication calms the racing thoughts that kept them awake. This can be an indication that the medication is working. In addition, many people have reported that the appearance of their ADHD symptoms decreases as they grow older.