How Does Medication For ADHD Work?
ADHD medications can help children and adults improve their focus and control their impulses. It also helps them get organized. Your doctor will work with you and your child to determine the most effective medicine for them.
Stimulants are the first line treatment for ADHD. They boost levels of norepinephrine and dopamine.
Stimulants
Stimulant medicines for ADHD work by increasing levels of certain brain chemicals (called neurotransmitters). This helps reduce symptoms, and improves the quality of life and improves attention. It can take some time to find the right medication and dose for you.
Whatever medication you or your child consumes, they should always be taken according to the prescriptions of your physician. Too much or too little can have serious effects. It is also important to take your medication at the same time each day to maintain a consistent dosage of medication within the body. Children who are being treated for ADHD should be encouraged to adhere to a schedule and frequently require help with this from teachers, parents, and other caregivers.
The majority of the drugs used to treat ADHD are referred to as stimulants. These medicines stimulate brain activity, specifically in areas that control the behavior and attention. These are the first therapies that doctors test, and they work well for 70 - the 80% of children and adults with ADHD. Stimulants cut down on hyperactivity, fidgeting, and interrupting and can improve behavior and school performance. They can also help with relationship problems and problems at home.
Methylphenidate (formerly Ritalin) is the most frequently prescribed stimulant medication used to treat ADHD. It's available in tablets with short-acting properties that start working within 30 to 45 minutes of taking them and fade after three to four hours. It's also available as long-acting tablets that are designed to be consumed once a day in the morning and last from six to eight hours. Many people prefer to supplement an active tablet with a shorter-acting one in the late afternoon, to avoid the "crash" that may occur as the stimulant begins to wear off.
Amphétamines are a significant kind of ADHD medication. They are stronger than methylphenidate and last for a longer time. Examples of these are Adderall and Dexedrine. These can be taken in the form of chewable tablets or liquids and are best suited to older teens or adults who do not have issues with the way the medication tastes.
Both kinds of stimulants can cause side effects, like headaches, nausea and sleep disturbances. They also can increase blood pressure and heart rate in some people.

Non-stimulants
Nonstimulant ADHD medications, like Guanfacine or atomoxetine, alter the way chemical messengers work in the brain and are less likely than stimulant drugs to get you "high" and buzzed. They are also less likely to lead to addiction or abuse. They are a good option for those who are not able to take stimulants or as a part of the treatment plan, along with modifications to lifestyle and skills training.
adhd medication and pregnancy have demonstrated that they don't enhance the academic performance of students with ADHD. However, most young people with ADHD who take these drugs claim that they improve their ability to concentrate and complete tasks, as well as manage their emotions. They also report an improvement in their social lives and relationships, as well as overall happiness.