Medications For ADHD and Anxiety
The use of medications is an essential part of treatment for both ADHD and anxiety. There are many ADHD medications that can also help alleviate anxiety symptoms and vice in reverse.
Stimulants like atomoxetine and bupropion (Wellbutrin), increase the availability of dopamine and other neurotransmitters which regulate mood and attention. They're typically prescribed first to adults suffering from ADHD and comorbid anxiety.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most frequently prescribed medication for ADHD, and they are effective in treating anxiety that is comorbid. They have a fast-acting effect and can be effective in boosting the activity of neurotransmitters within the brain, helping to increase focus, attention, and impulse control. Stimulants can also help reduce anxiety by reducing blood pressure and heart rate, as well as increasing levels of serotonin.
The most commonly used stimulant drugs used to treat ADHD are methylphenidate (Ritalin) and amphetamines. They are usually prescribed in the short-acting form and are required to be taken 3 times per day, however there are long-acting variants of these drugs that last between 8 and 12 hours and are taken one time per day. There are some who experience adverse effects of these medications such as a decrease in appetite, trouble sleeping and changes in weight or hair growth. They may also trigger tics, headaches, and irritability.
In certain instances, stimulants can worsen anxiety symptoms. They are not advised for those with an anxiety history or bipolar disorder. concerta adhd medication are also addictive and have been linked to suicidal thoughts or attempts by adolescents. Doctors typically prescribe a combination therapy and nonstimulant medications to treat ADHD and anxiety.
When you are trying to determine the best medication to treat anxiety and ADHD Your doctor will take into consideration your specific symptoms, the causes of them, and how they interact with each with each other. They will also look at other treatment approaches like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and lifestyle factors like diet and exercise.
Non-stimulant medications are usually preferred for treating coexisting ADHD and anxiety in adults because they don't have the same side effects as stimulants. Strattera (atomoxetine) and Qelbree, (viloxazine), are FDA-approved medications that do not stimulate the brain for treating ADHD. They also relieve anxiety symptoms. These medications can help improve mood control, impulse control and attention span by enhancing the brain neurotransmitter norepinephrine. These medications do NOT reduce appetite, nor do they cause jitters or shaking.
Controlling anxiety and ADHD at the same time isn't easy but it's possible with the right support. The board-certified healthcare professionals on Klarity have years of experience treating patients with these two conditions and can provide you with the strategies to conquer them. You can get your first appointment in 24 hours with a provider who will give you an assessment and prescription and pick up the medication at the pharmacy of your choice in the comfort of your own home. Find out how easy it is for you to begin your ADHD and anxiety treatment.