Medication

Always consult your GP for medication advice before consumption, 

Types of Medications:

 

• Stimulant Medications:

  • Most commonly prescribed for ADHD.

  • Examples include methylphenidate (e.g., Ritalin) and amphetamine-based medications (e.g., Adderall).

 

• Non-Stimulant Medications:

  • Prescribed when stimulants are not well-tolerated or are ineffective.

  • Examples include atomoxetine (Strattera), guanfacine (Intuniv), and clonidine (Kapvay).

How Medications Work:

 

• Stimulant Medications:

  • Stimulant medications, such as those containing amphetamine or methylphenidate, increase the release and availability of neurotransmitters, particularly dopamine and norepinephrine, in the brain.

  • One mechanism of action involves inhibiting the reuptake of neurotransmitters. Reuptake is the process where neurotransmitters are reabsorbed by the neurons that released them after transmitting a signal.

  • Stimulants block the reuptake of dopamine and norepinephrine, leading to higher concentrations of these neurotransmitters in the synapses (gaps between nerve cells).

  • By preventing the reuptake of dopamine and norepinephrine, stimulant medications increase the activity of these neurotransmitters in the brain.

  • Elevated dopamine levels are associated with improved attention, focus, and motivation.

  • Stimulants primarily affect brain circuits that involve the prefrontal cortex, which plays a key role in executive functions, including attention, planning, and decision-making.

  • By modulating neurotransmitter levels, stimulant medications help regulate these cognitive processes.

  • Stimulant medications typically have a relatively quick onset of action, often within 30 minutes to an hour after ingestion.

  • This rapid effect is beneficial for individuals with ADHD who need prompt relief from symptoms.

 

• Non-Stimulant Medications:

  • Non-stimulant medications primarily target the norepinephrine system rather than dopamine, as stimulant medications do.

  • Non-stimulant medications typically have a more gradual onset of action compared to stimulant medications. It may take several weeks for the full therapeutic effects to be noticeable.

 

Individualized Treatment:

• Responses to stimulant medications can vary among individuals. Factors such as genetics, metabolism, and overall health may influence how a person responds to a particular medication.

• Dosages may need to be adjusted to achieve optimal effectiveness.

• Non-stimulant medications are often considered for individuals who do not respond well to or cannot tolerate stimulant medications.

Medication and Behavioral Therapy:

• Combined Approach

• Medication is often used in conjunction with behavioral therapy.

• Behavioral therapy focuses on developing skills and strategies to manage ADHD symptoms.

• Some therapies are not as appealing to some as others might be.It is important to at least try these different approaches to establish what worked and what didn't.

Effectiveness and Duration:

• Immediate and Extended Release

• Stimulant medications may come in immediate-release and extended-release forms.

• Extended-release formulations provide longer coverage throughout the day.

Side Effects:

• Side effects can include insomnia, decreased appetite, weight loss, and increased heart rate.

• Side effects vary among individuals, and some may not experience any.

• If you ever experience side effects it's important to contact your GP or 999 services in an emergency.

Monitoring and Adjustments:

• Individuals taking medication for ADHD should be regularly monitored by healthcare providers.

• Adjustments to dosage or medication type may be necessary however it is pivotal that you seek professional advice before you do.

Long-Term Use:

• Stimulant medications are generally considered safe for long-term use when monitored appropriately.

• Non-stimulant medications may also be used for extended periods.

Treatment Plan Collaboration:

• Developing an effective treatment plan involves collaboration between individuals, parents (in the case of children), healthcare providers, and educators.

• Open communication is key to adjusting and optimizing treatment.

Always consult your GP for medication advice before consumption, 

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Examples of some(not all) medications commonly used to treat those with ADHD symptoms are,

Methylphenidate-Based Medications:

• Ritalin (Methylphenidate)

• Available in immediate-release and extended-release forms.

• • Immediate-release is usually taken multiple times a day.

  • Extended-release formulations provide longer coverage and are taken once daily.

 

• Concerta (Methylphenidate Extended-Release):

• • An extended-release form of methylphenidate.

  • Administered once daily.

 

• Focalin (Dexmethylphenidate):

• • Similar to methylphenidate but contains only the active dextrorotatory enantiomer.

  • Available in both immediate-release and extended-release forms.

 

• Daytrana (Methylphenidate Transdermal System):

  • A patch that delivers methylphenidate through the skin.

  • Applied to the hip and worn for about 9 hours.

Amphetamine-Based Medications:

 

• Adderall (Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine):

•  

  • A combination of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine.

  • Available in immediate-release and extended-release forms.

 

• Vyvanse (Lisdexamfetamine):

  • A prodrug that is converted to dextroamphetamine in the body.

  • Requires conversion in the digestive system before becoming active.

 

• Dexedrine (Dextroamphetamine):

• • Contains only dextroamphetamine.

  • Available in both immediate-release and extended-release forms.

 

Non-Stimulant Medication:

• Strattera (Atomoxetine):

  • Non-stimulant medication.

  • Works by increasing norepinephrine levels in the brain.

  • Administered once or twice daily.

 

Dexedrine (Dextroamphetamine):

• Contains only dextroamphetamine.

• Available in both immediate-release and extended-release forms.

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Always consult your GP for medication advice before consumption,