How Does Medication For ADHD Work?<br /><br />Stimulants increase the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in your brain, assisting in improving the ability to focus and control impulses. They come in immediate-release (short-acting) and extended-release tablets that are taken every day, usually in the morning.<br /><br />Nonstimulant medications can improve the ability to control impulses and attention however they are more difficult to use. Atomoxetine (Strattera) and Guanfacine (Viloxazine) are part of the class of antidepressants and increase levels of norepinephrine.<br /><br />Stimulants<br /><br />The most commonly utilized ADHD medications are stimulants, such as dexamphetamine (Dexedrine), the methylphenidate (Ritalin) and Lisdexamfetamine (Focalin). These medications work by increasing the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. These neurotransmitters help the prefrontal cortex, which is responsible the process of planning and organizing tasks. Stimulants can decrease ADHD symptoms for up to 80% of children and adults who take them. These symptoms include fidgeting, talking over others, forgetfulness and trouble getting things done or finishing tasks. <a href="https://www.iampsychiatry.uk/adult-adhd-medication/">I Am Psychiatry</a> can also help reduce social problems, such as not being capable of listening to others and having trouble keeping promises.<br /><br /><br /><br />Medications start working when they cross the blood-brain barrier. This can take between 45 and 60 minutes. This explains why people often notice changes immediately. For children, a physician may opt for a "start low and then increase" approach, increasing the dose gradually over a period of three or four weeks. During this period teachers and parents are able to give feedback on whether the medication helps. Doctors can also observe 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 do not have ADHD.<br /><br />The doctor will inform the patient and their family members about the benefits of, risks, and adverse effects of different medications. It is crucial to be honest, especially when the medication does not appear to be making a difference. The GP will then suggest another treatment alternative.<br /><br />Non-stimulant drugs<br /><br />A variety of other drugs are also used to treat ADHD. Bupropion (Wellbutrin), an antidepressant that increases the neurotransmitters dopamine as well as norepinephrine is one of these medications. Other older medications, like tricyclics, are also utilized. These are less likely to cause side effects than stimulants, however they can take a long time to work.<br /><br />Psychiatric disorders<br /><br />Disorders of the mind, such as anxiety and depression, can coexist with ADHD and make it more difficult for patients to achieve the best results from their medications. In many instances, the doctor will decide to treat the mood disorder first, and then reassess the patient.<br /><br />Abuse<br /><br />These medications can be misused, particularly in teens and teenagers who typically take them for their energy-boosting or weight-loss properties. They also are 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.<br /><br />It can be frustrating to not get immediate results from ADHD medication. It is important to keep in mind that a lot of patients will have to try several different kinds of medication before they can find one that eases their symptoms. It's also important to stick to the medication for as long as is possible and make regular visits with the GP to monitor the progress of the medication and look for any adverse reactions. This will aid the GP determine whether the dosage currently used is adequate or needs to be increased or if the medication needs to be changed to another type or combination of medications. GPs can help identify changes in lifestyle and behavior that can enhance medication's effect.<br /><br />