How Does ADHD Medication Work?
The medications can reduce ADHD symptoms by increasing the levels of chemicals dopamine and noradrenaline which transmit messages between brain cells. The most commonly prescribed stimulants are methylphenidate, Glycine and atomoxetine.
Finding the right dosage and medication can be a trial-and error process. Communication with your doctor should be honest and open.
Stimulants
The stimulant medications prescribed to treat ADHD increase levels of dopamine and naradrenaline. adhd medication for adults uk behind this is unclear, but the result is that memory and attention improve and hyperactivity decreases. The drugs do not treat ADHD, however. They are a tool to aid people to function in a world that is often not set up for people with neurodivergent brains.
Most stimulants are controlled substances, and doctors must be able to observe the person who is taking them to ensure they don't cause adverse consequences such as an abrupt decrease in energy, appetite suppression, and shakiness, or sleep issues. It can take a while to determine the correct dosage, medication, and treatment. adult adhd medication uk is crucial that the person with ADHD regularly visits their doctor.
The dosage of stimulant drugs is different for children and adults. Doctors may recommend lifestyle modifications as an alternative to medications, and to aid people suffering from ADHD learn how best manage their symptoms. A psychiatric nurse or social worker may be involved in the treatment team as well.
ADHD and mood disorders like dysthymia or depression can often coexist. Typically, the clinician will treat the mood disorder, and then examine the ADHD symptoms. The underlying condition may influence the behavior of the patient and behavior, therefore it is recommended to address the root of the issue rather than treating the symptoms.
While the medications can be beneficial, they are not a panacea and should be used in combination with other treatments such as psychosocial work and parenting skills training, physical exercise and diet and nutrition counseling. In fact, a recent survey of parents revealed that just 41 percent were highly satisfied with their child's ADHD medications, while only 25 percent were very satisfied.
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 the methylphenidates and amphetamines. They are available both as prescriptions and over-the-counter. Certain individuals with ADHD benefit from extended-release versions of these medications that are typically taken daily in the morning and last six to eight hours. Many people take immediate-release tablets in the late afternoon to complement these long-acting medication. The additional tablet is used to fill in the time between the initial medication wearing off and prevents an abrupt decrease in motivation and energy. Some individuals claim that ADHD medication can help people fall asleep faster at night due to it calming the racing thoughts. This could be an indication that the medication is working. Additionally, a lot of people report that they find the appearance of their ADHD symptoms improves as they grow older.