How Does Medication For ADHD Work?
Stimulants can improve your attention and impulse control by increasing the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in your brain. They are available in immediate release (short-acting) and extended-release tablets that are taken every day, typically in the morning.
Nonstimulant medications take longer to work but they can also enhance attention and impulse control. Atomoxetine, Viloxazine and guanfacine are antidepressants that increase norepinephrine levels.
Stimulants
The most commonly used ADHD drugs are stimulants, such as dexamphetamine (Dexedrine) and methylphenidate (Ritalin) and Lisdexamfetamine (Focalin). medication for add adults boost the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. These neurotransmitters aid the prefrontal cortex, which controls the process of planning, organizing and executing tasks. The stimulants can help reduce ADHD symptoms for up to 80% of children and adults who use them. These symptoms include fidgeting and yelling at other people. They also have forgetfulness, difficulty finishing or completing tasks, as well as difficulties finishing or working through tasks. The medications can also ease social problems such as not being in a position to listen to others and having difficulty keeping promises.
The effects of medications begin once they have crossed the blood-brain barrier, which takes between 45 and 60 minutes. This is the reason why people do not notice changes immediately. A doctor may increase the dose gradually over three or four weeks for children. Parents and teachers can provide feedback on the effectiveness of the medication during this period. GPs can also monitor the effects of medication using scales such as the Connor global index score, which measures the child's performance in comparison to other children of their age and gender who don't have ADHD.
The GP will talk to the patient and their family members about the advantages as well as the risks and side effects of different medications. It is essential to be open, especially when the medication does not appear to have any effect. The GP might suggest an alternative treatment.
Non-stimulant drugs
A variety of other drugs are also used to treat ADHD. Certain are antidepressants, such as bupropion (Wellbutrin) which works by increasing the neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine, as well as other older medications like tricyclics. They are less likely cause side effects than stimulants, however they can take longer to take effect.
Disorders of the mind
Disorders of the mind such as depression and anxiety can coexist with ADHD and make it difficult for patients to obtain the most effective results from their medication. In many instances, a physician will treat the mood disorder, and then assess their patient.
Abuse
Especially among adolescents and teenagers who take stimulant medications to boost energy or weight loss effects, these drugs are a source of abuse. They are also prone to abuse by those who have a history of alcohol and substance abuse or a family or personal history of mental health issues like bipolar disorder.
It can be frustrating to not notice immediate results from ADHD medication. It is important to remember, however, that many sufferers will need to test various types of medications before they find one that alleviates their symptoms. It is also crucial to remain with the medication as long as possible, and make regular visits with the GP to track progress and watch for adverse reactions. The GP will determine whether a dosage increase is necessary or if it's time to change to a different medication. GPs can also help to identify changes in behavior and lifestyle that can enhance the effect of medication.