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How Does Medication For ADHD Work?
Stimulants enhance your attention and impulse control by increasing the levels norepinephrine and dopamine in your brain. They are available in immediate release (short-acting) and extended-release tablets, which are taken twice a day, usually in the morning.
Nonstimulant medicines can enhance concentration and impulse control, but they require more time to work. Atomoxetine (Strattera) and Guanfacine (Viloxazine) are both in the antidepressant class and boost levels of norepinephrine.
Stimulants
The most commonly utilized ADHD drugs are stimulants, including dexamphetamine (Dexedrine) and the methylphenidate (Ritalin) and lisdexamfetamine (Focalin). These drugs boost the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. These neurotransmitters assist the prefrontal cortex, which is responsible planning and organizing tasks. Stimulants can decrease ADHD symptoms for up to 90% of children and adults who take them. These symptoms include fumbling, talking over others, forgetfulness and trouble finishing or completing tasks. The medications can also ease social problems such as not being able to listen to others and having difficulty keeping promises.
The medication starts working once it has crossed the blood-brain barriers that can take between 45 to 60 minutes. This is why people don't notice changes in their brains right away. A doctor can increase the dose gradually over three or four weeks for children. During this period, teachers and parents can give feedback on whether the medication is helping. GPs can also track the effects of medication using scales, such as the Connor global index score, which measures a child's performance against other children of the same age and gender who don't have ADHD.
The doctor will inform the patient and their family members about the advantages, risks and side effects of various medications. It is essential to be honest, particularly when the medication does not appear to be making any difference. The GP will then suggest another treatment alternative.
Non-stimulant drugs
A variety of other medications are also used to treat ADHD. Bupropion (Wellbutrin), an antidepressant which increases the neurotransmitters dopamine as well as norepinephrine, is one of these medications. Other older medications, such as tricyclics, are also used. These medications are less likely to cause adverse effects, but they can take a while to work.
Disorders of the psychiatric spectrum
Mental disorders, like anxiety and depression, can be co-occurring with ADHD and make it more difficult for patients to achieve the most benefit from their medications. In many instances, a doctor will treat the mood disorder and then assess their patient.
Abuse
Stimulant medications can be abused, particularly in teens and teenagers who are often prescribed them due to their energy-boosting or weight-loss properties. They are also prone to abuse by those who have an alcohol or drug misuse, or a family or personal history of mental health issues, such as bipolar disorder.
It can be frustrating to not notice immediate results from ADHD medication. It is crucial to keep in mind that the majority of people will have to test different types of medication before finding one that provides relief from their symptoms. It is important to continue taking the medication as long as you are able, and to visit your GP regularly to monitor your progress and look out for any side consequences. The GP can then determine whether an increase in dosage is required or if it's time to switch to a new medication. GPs can read more assist in identifying the behavioral and lifestyle changes that could enhance the effect of medication.