Why You Should Focus On Enhancing How Does Medication For ADHD Work

How Does Medication For ADHD Work?

Stimulants help improve your ability to focus and control impulses by increasing the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine within 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 medications can help improve attention and impulse management however, they are more difficult to use. Atomoxetine, Viloxazine and guanfacine are antidepressants that increase norepinephrine levels.

Stimulants

Most commonly prescribed ADHD medication includes stimulants like dexamphetamine, methylphenidate and lisdexamfetamine. These drugs boost the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. These neurotransmitters aid the prefrontal cortex in planning, organizing and executing tasks. Stimulants can reduce ADHD symptoms in about 70% to 80% of children and adults who use them. These symptoms include fumbling, talking over others, forgetfulness and trouble getting things done or working on 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 to work as soon it crosses the blood-brain barrier which can take between 45 and 60 minutes. This is why people don't notice changes right away. A doctor may increase the dosage gradually over three or four weeks for children. Parents and teachers can provide feedback on the efficacy of the medication throughout this time. GPs can also track the effects using scales, such as the Connor global index score which measures a child's performance against other children of their age and gender who do not have ADHD.

go  will discuss with the patient and their family the risks and benefits as well as negative side effects of different medications. It is important to be open, especially when the medication does not appear to be making a difference. The GP may suggest alternative treatment.

Non-stimulant drugs

A variety of other drugs are also used to treat ADHD. Bupropion (Wellbutrin), an antidepressant that boosts the neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine is among these medications. Other older medications, like tricyclics, are also utilized. These drugs are less likely than stimulants to trigger adverse effects, but they can take some time to begin working.

Disorders of the mind

Disorders of the mind, such as anxiety and depression, can be co-occurring with ADHD and make it more difficult for patients to obtain the most benefit from their medication. In many instances, the physician will decide to treat the mood disorder first, and then review the patient.

Abuse

Particularly among adolescents and teens who are taking stimulant medication for their weight-loss or energy-boosting effects, these drugs are a source of abuse. They also are prone to abuse by those with an history of alcohol or drug abuse, or a personal or family history of mental health issues like bipolar disorder.

It can be disappointing to not see immediate results from ADHD medication. It is important to keep in mind, however, that many sufferers will need to test several different kinds of medication before they discover one that relieves their symptoms. It's also important to stick to the medication for as long as is possible and make regular visits to your GP to track the progress of the medication and look for any side effects. The GP will determine if it's necessary to increase the dosage or if it's the right time to change to a different medication. GPs can assist in identifying the behavioral and lifestyle changes that could enhance the effect of medication.