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Does ADHD Medication Work? When someone gets a prescription for ADHD medication, they usually think about whether the medication will work and how long it will last. Here are some simple answers. Stimulants affect the levels of brain chemicals which send messages regarding focus and activity. They include dopamine and norepinephrine. They are the first line of treatment for adults suffering from ADHD. 1. Stimulants Stimulants are often used to treat ADHD. They alter the activity of neurotransmitters (like dopamine) in the brain to aid people stay focused and organized. Around 80% of children and adults suffering from ADHD have improved symptoms after finding the right dosage of stimulants and the right formulation. When prescribed by a doctor and if taken as directed when prescribed by a doctor, these drugs aren't habit-forming. But when they are abused (like when they are injected or snorted) or taken by those with ADHD they may result in addiction and other mental health issues. There are a variety of amphetamine and methylphenidate medications that healthcare providers employ to treat ADHD. Most doctors start with a small dose of the medication, then increase it gradually until the patient is able to manage their symptoms. Stimulant medications are available in a variety of forms including tablets, extended-release and quick-acting. Side effects of stimulant medications are not uncommon, however they typically disappear after several weeks or if your doctor recommends you alter the dosage. Common adverse effects of stimulants include reduced appetite, weight loss or change in appetite, difficulty getting to sleep, increased heart rate and irritability, or sadness. Most stimulant medicines are safe for healthy individuals. However, it is important to avoid illegal drugs or vitamins that claim to treat ADHD. Only doctors and certain healthcare professionals can prescribe these drugs. Supplements such as melatonin and omega-3 fish oil have not been proven to reduce ADHD symptoms. If you or your child experiences new side effects following the use of the medication, it's vital to speak with your physician or psychiatrist. It could be an indication that the drug isn't working or that there are other health issues that require attention. It is essential to take the medication each day at the same time. This can help decrease ADHD symptoms. Many families choose to continue taking stimulant medications once their child is no longer exhibiting symptoms, though this isn't necessary for all children. It's possible to break from stimulants, especially for teenagers, to observe how their brains work and help them learn to cope with ADHD. 2. Non-stimulants Stimulant medication is among the most widely-used forms of ADHD treatment. It's effective in 70-80 percent of both adults and children, and can help improve their ability to focus, pay attention, and control their impulsive behaviors. These drugs work by increasing the levels of certain brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. Through the increase of dopamine and norepinephrine, the medications can help with ADHD symptoms like a limited attention span and the tendency to be impulsive. These medications come in various tablet and liquid forms, including immediate-release formulations that can be taken three times a day to get an instant boost in focus and extended-release tablets which work throughout the day. The newer nonstimulant medications may be less effective than stimulants, but generally, they are safe for the majority of people. These medications are available in chewables and capsules. They can also be added to food or drinks for children who have difficulties swallowing pills. Atomoxetine is also known as Strattera is the first non-stimulant that has been approved for ADHD treatment. It's a selective norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitor that boosts the amount of norepinephrine found in the brain. It's also used to treat depression. Medications work differently for every person and sometimes it takes time to determine the correct dosage and the right formulation of medication. Be patient and speak to your doctor in case you or your child are having issues with the medication. It's possible to switch between stimulants or non-stimulants, if one medication isn't working for you. Talk to your psychiatrist any other medical issues you or your child may have, and any other medication (including over-the counter medication) as well as the foods you consume or drink. Before starting or changing your ADHD medications, you should be sure to check your blood pressure. It's often found that methylphenidate-based drugs, such as Adderall and Ritalin, can cause a slight increase in blood pressure in some people. Some individuals may need to stop taking their medication during vacations or holidays, and return to it when they're back at school or at home. Regular exercise can boost attention and reduce risky behaviors that can be associated with ADHD. 3. Other medications Most ADHD medication requires prescriptions. Doctors must monitor people to find the right dose and drug type. They can also ask teachers and parents to fill out behavior rating scales and monitor the reaction of a person to the medication to ensure that the medication is working and that side effects aren't too bad. The first line of treatment for ADHD in adults and children is stimulant drugs. They are used to increase the levels of neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine within the brain, thereby increasing the ability to focus and reducing fatigue. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention they can help 70 to 80 percent of children and adults with ADHD. They can decrease fidgeting, interrupting, or forgetting things, reduce the impulsive behavior of jumping, running, and yelling, and improve social skills and school performance. They can also lower blood pressure and heart rate. The majority of stimulant medications are both short-acting (that lasts 4 to 6 hours) and long-acting (that can last for up to 12 hours). Nonstimulant drugs don't increase the brain chemicals dopamine or norepinephrine. However, over the counter adhd medication do reduce symptoms for about 50 percent of ADHD sufferers. They can aid in reducing impulse-driven behaviors enhance concentration and mood, and help you follow instructions. They also reduce aggression and improve relationships. They include atomoxetine also known as Strattera (brand name) and viloxazine also known as Qelbree (brandname). These medications can be taken in combination with stimulants. A very small number of adults and children who take stimulant medication may become numb or sluggish or even tearful or irritable while the medicine is in their system. If this happens, it's an indication that the dosage is too high and should be adjusted. ADHD can be treated with a variety of medications. It may require several trials and error to discover the best one for you or your child. The medication needs to be taken regularly to ensure its effectiveness. If a person stops taking the medication, ADHD symptoms will recur. The commitment to medication is for life, and it takes time to find the right dosage and drug that provides the best results while causing the least amount of adverse effects. 4. Behavioral therapies Many people with ADHD do not find that medication eliminates all their symptoms. Therapy for behavioral issues can assist them in managing their symptoms and improve their everyday functioning. It can also help improve their relationships with others, boost their self-esteem, and boost their confidence. Behavioral therapies are typically employed in combination with ADHD medication. This multi-component approach to treatment is the most effective for children suffering from ADHD. Combining medication and behavior management are more effective than either approach alone. A therapist will work with the child to help him learn new skills which will assist him in managing his ADHD symptoms. This usually involves teaching them organization strategies and how to reduce distractions. It could also include teaching them to use strategies for coping when they are experiencing emotional distress, for example mindfulness meditation and emotion regulation skills. Typically, behavioural therapy is delivered in groups. This allows the therapist to offer assistance and encouragement to several children at a time increasing the chances that the child will adhere with the program. The therapist could also work with parents to show them how to reinforce positive behaviors. They will help them develop a system for rewarding good behavior, and implementing discipline when necessary. They will also help them learn about time management, goal setting, and planning. Therapists may also suggest a chart that the child earns points by completing tasks. The therapist may have to introduce negative consequences, like losing points, if the child does not follow through on their responsibilities. People who aren't responding to medication may benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). This type of therapy focuses on changing how the person perceives their problems. It can also help them learn more effective ways to control their emotions and decrease their impulse-driven behavior. Behavioral therapies are generally cheaper than medication. However, they may take longer to demonstrate results. If symptoms do not improve after a specific period of time, it's crucial to talk with your doctor about what might be making them worse. It could be because the child isn't taking their medication correctly or the dosage needs to be increased. It could also be that life events are causing stress and making it harder for the child to concentrate. Find-a-therapist functions are available in the ADDA, CHADD's National Resource Center and the ADDitude Directory. These features will help you find a therapist who offers CBT.