How Does Medication For ADHD Work?
Many children and adults find ADHD medication helps them improve their ability to concentrate and control their impulses, as well as become organized. Your doctor will work with you and your child to determine the best treatment for them.
Stimulants are first-line treatment of ADHD. They boost the levels of two brain chemicals called norepinephrine and dopamine.
Stimulants
Stimulant medication for ADHD help by increasing the levels of certain chemicals (called neurotransmitters) in the brain. This can help reduce symptoms, improves the duration of attention and improves behavior. It can take some time to determine the appropriate medication and dosage for you.
Whatever medication you or your child consumes it is important to ensure that they are taken according to the instructions of your doctor. Taking too much or too little could have a negative impact on your health. buy adhd medication uk is also important to take your medication at the same time every day to ensure a consistent level of medication in the body. Children being treated for ADHD must be assisted to adhere to a schedule and often require assistance in this area from parents, teachers and other caregivers.
Stimulants are among the most popular treatments for ADHD. These are medicines that increase activity in the brain, especially in areas that regulate behavior and attention. These are the first therapies that doctors try, and they work well for 70 to 80% children and adults suffering from ADHD. Stimulants reduce fidgeting, hyperactivity, and interrupting. They also help improve school performance and behaviour. They can also help with problems at home and in relationships.
Methylphenidate previously known as Ritalin is the most common stimulant medication used to treat ADHD. It's available in short-acting tablets that start working within 30 to 45 minutes of being taken and wear off after three to four hours. It's also available as long-acting tablets that are designed to be taken at least once per day in the morning, and last between six and eight hours. Many people prefer to supplement a long-acting tablet with a short-acting one in the late afternoon to prevent the "crash" that can happen as the stimulant starts to wear off.
The other type of ADHD medication is amphetamines, which are stronger and last longer than methylphenidate medications. Adderall and Dexedrine are examples. They are available in chewable tablets or liquid form and are generally suitable for older teenagers or adults who don't have a problem with the way the medicine tastes.
Both types of stimulants can cause side effects, including headaches, nausea and trouble sleeping. They can also increase blood pressure and heart rate in some people.
Nonstimulants
Nonstimulant medications for ADHD like atomoxetine and guanfacine, change how chemical messengers within the brain function. They are less likely to cause you feel "high" or buzzed. They also have less chance of addiction or abuse. They can be used by those who are not able to take stimulants or as a part of an treatment plan that includes lifestyle changes and skill training.
There is some debate about how well they work because some studies have shown that they don't help improve academic performance for students suffering from ADHD. However, the majority of young people with ADHD who take these drugs affirm that they enhance their ability to concentrate and complete tasks, as well as manage their emotions. They also report improvement in their social life as well as relationships and overall happiness.