Many people with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) use medication to control their symptoms. These medications can help you focus on one thing or help you manage other symptoms. But sometimes these medications don't work the same for everyone. Sometimes they work well for a while, but then they start to lose their effectiveness. Do you feel like your ADHD medication isn't working as well as it used to? Here are some things you need to know about it.
What are the reasons why medicines don't always work the same way?
The most common and effective type of medication for ADHD is stimulants. Simply put, these stimulants speed up the functioning of your body's systems and help you focus on one thing. Doctors usually prescribe two main types of stimulants for ADHD. These are drugs containing methylphenidate and drugs containing amphetamine. Most people with ADHD get good results from one of these two types. However, some people may not get good results from these drugs for the following reasons.
Your Body Chemistry
Our bodies are amazing, and they are all different. Sometimes the two main stimulants for ADHD don't work for some people. That means about one in ten people may not get any results from these medications. That's because the medication doesn't work properly with their body's chemistry. Sometimes, even a medication that worked well in the past can stop working over time. Experts still don't know exactly why.
Changes in your symptoms
The problem isn't always with the medication. Sometimes your ADHD symptoms get worse, and you may need a higher dose or a different medication to get the same results you were getting before. For example, you've just started a new job, or you've had an exam or a family problem. These stressful and busy times can make it harder for you to focus. The medication you were taking before may no longer seem to be working. That's why it's important to talk to your doctor about what's going on in your life right now.
Having another health problem
Sometimes new symptoms that look like ADHD can be caused by another medical condition. This can make it seem like your ADHD medication isn't working. In fact, about 81% of adults with ADHD have another medical condition. For example:
- Anxiety Disorder
- Depression
- Mood Disorder
- Substance Abuse
Anxiety and depression, in particular, are very common conditions that accompany ADHD. These conditions can also cause things like feeling dizzy and having trouble concentrating . Therefore, treating these conditions may help your ability to focus better.
What do you do if the medicine stops working?
If you are taking medication for ADHD and your symptoms are not improving, or are getting worse, be sure to talk to your doctor. He or she will understand your situation and provide you with the necessary advice.
Typically, the doctor may take steps like this:
1. Adjusting the dosage of medication: Sometimes you may be told to increase the dosage of your medication gradually.
2. Switching to a different medication: If increasing the dose doesn't help, you may need to try a different medication. Although stimulants are the most common medications for ADHD, you may also be given a non-stimulant medication such as atomoxetine, bupropion, viloxazine, or tricyclic antidepressants .
3. Take a short break from medication (Drug Holiday): Some doctors advise taking a short break from medication when you feel like it's not working. This means stopping the medication for a month or two and then starting it again. Sometimes this will help the medication start working again. However, since your ADHD symptoms can flare up again while you're off medication, experts say it's better to take this 'drug holiday' during a vacation or when you're not working.
Very important: However, never stop taking your medication on your own without talking to your doctor . He or she may be able to tell you how to taper off the medication gradually.
Treatment options besides medication
Sometimes your doctor may recommend other treatments, either in addition to or instead of medication, to help control your symptoms.
| Treatment method | A description about it |
|---|---|
| Exercising regularly | Research has shown that physical activity can improve attention. It can also improve your mood and even reduce risky behaviors associated with ADHD. |
| Neurofeedback | This is also called 'brain training' or EEG biofeedback. In this, while you play a computer game, your brain waves are monitored using a device with sensors attached to your scalp. Although it is said that this may help control ADHD symptoms, experts say that more research is needed on this. |
| Talk therapy | Talking to a psychologist or therapist who specializes in ADHD can help you develop the skills needed to manage symptoms and cope with life's challenges. |
Finally, it's important to talk openly with your doctor about how you're feeling and any new problems you're experiencing. This will help him or her determine if there are any other health issues that may be affecting your focus and help you choose the treatment that's best for you.
Take-Home Message
- There are several reasons why ADHD medication may not work as well as it used to. These include changes in body chemistry, worsening symptoms due to life stress, or other medical conditions such as anxiety or depression.
- If you feel like your medication isn't working, the most important thing to do is talk to your doctor.
- Never stop taking medication or change the dosage without your doctor's advice.
- In addition to medication, symptoms can also be controlled through things like regular exercise and talk therapy.
- Talking openly with your doctor about your life and feelings is essential to getting the right treatment.
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