Unlocking Attention: How ADHD Medications Work in the Brain

What is ADHD?

Before jumping into how ADHD medications actually work within the body, it is important to define what it is. ADHD is the acronym for Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. It is a very common neurodevelopment disorder found in both children and adults where individuals may have trouble controlling impulsive behaviors, may be unable to pay attention, and may poorly follow instructions (Cleveland Clinic, 2022). For many, the effects of ADHD can be effectively monitored through the use of various medications, including stimulants, non-stimulants, and antidepressants.

What Kinds of ADHD Medications are there?

While individual ADHD meds may work differently, the common theme is that they work to increase the levels of key neurotransmitters in the brain. These include dopamine and norepinephrine pathways that can increase attention span, reduce hyperactivity, and control impulsive behaviors. ADHD medications affect each person differently so what works for one person may not work for everyone. Once you find the right medication and dose, most people find ADHD medications help their symptoms and how they go about their daily lives. Although these medications may be useful to those with ADHD, there are some potential side effects including decreased appetite, weight loss, upset stomach, increased anxiety and difficulty sleeping.  

How do ADHD Medications Work on the Cellular Level?

Dopamine is a key neurotransmitter that plays several functions in the brain including the reward and pleasure response while also being involved with motivation. Norepinephrine activates the body’s ‘fight or flight’ response which increases alertness activity. With respect to how ADHD medications work, they trigger signal changes in the brain. So how does this work?

The entire human body works through one neuron sending a message to another one, either receiving that signal in the brain, or sending it out for movement. For some with ADHD, their neurotransmitters are not properly released, getting stuck before good connections are made. This can lead to inefficient signals being read, causing the signal to try again and again. ADHD medications can work by helping release more of those trapped neurotransmitters and allowing them time to reach the next neuron. By improving this movement, ADHD medications can reduce hyperactivity and help individuals pay attention more effectively.  

Source:

Cleveland Clinic. (2022, October 6). ADHD Medications: How They Work & Side Effects. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/11766-adhd-medication

Assessed and Endorsed by the MedReport Medical Review Board