fieldcirrus3

How Does Medication For ADHD Work? Stimulants enhance your attention and impulse control by increasing the levels norepinephrine and dopamine in your brain. They come in immediate-release (short-acting) and extended-release tablets taken once a day, typically in the morning. Nonstimulant medications are more difficult to use but they can also enhance the ability to control impulses and attention. Atomoxetine (Strattera) and guanfacine (Viloxazine) are in the class of antidepressants and increase levels of norepinephrine. Stimulants The most frequently used ADHD medication are stimulants, such as dexamphetamine (Dexedrine), the methylphenidate (Ritalin) and lisdexamfetamine (Focalin). These drugs increase the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. These neurotransmitters aid the prefrontal cortex, which is responsible planning and organizing tasks. Stimulants can decrease ADHD symptoms for up to 90% of adults and children who use them. The symptoms include fidgeting, talking over other people, forgetfulness and difficulties working through or completing tasks. Medicines can also help with social issues, such as not listening to others or having difficulty keeping promises. Medications start working when they cross the blood-brain barrier, which can take 45 to 60 minutes. This is the reason why people notice changes in their brains almost immediately. For children, a physician may opt for a “start low and go slow” approach and gradually increase the dosage over a period of three or four weeks. During this period, teachers and parents can give feedback on whether the medication is helping. GPs can assess the effects using scales like the Connor Global Index score which compares a kid with other children of the same age and gender without ADHD. The GP will talk to the patient's family and friends about the benefits as well as the risks and side effects of different medications. It is crucial to be open, especially when the medication does not appear to be making a difference. The GP will then suggest another treatment alternative. Non-stimulant drugs Many other medications are also used to treat ADHD. Certain are antidepressants, like bupropion (Wellbutrin), which works by increasing the neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine, and other older medications like tricyclics. These are less likely to cause side effects than stimulants, however they can take a long time to work. Disorders of the psychiatric spectrum Disorders of the mind, such as depression and anxiety, can be co-occurring with ADHD and make it difficult for patients to achieve the most benefit from their medications. In many instances, the doctor will decide to treat the mood disorder first and then reassess the patient. Abuse The use of stimulants can be problematic especially among adolescents and teenagers, who are often prescribed them due to their weight loss or energy properties. People with a history of addiction to drugs or alcohol or mental health problems such as bipolar disorder are more likely to abuse stimulant drugs. It can be disappointing to not see immediate results from ADHD medication. It is important to keep in mind that many patients will have to try several different types of medication before they discover one that eases their symptoms. It is crucial to continue taking the medication as long as you can, and to visit your GP frequently to keep track of your progress and watch for any adverse effects. These visits will help the GP determine whether the dosage currently used is optimal or needs to be increased or if the medication should be changed to a different kind or combination of drugs. IamPsychiatry can also help to identify lifestyle and behavioral changes that may enhance the effects of medication.