Best ADHD Medication For Adults With Anxiety
Up to 50% of people with ADHD also suffer from an anxiety disorder. Both therapy and medication are effective treatments for both disorders.
Stimulants can increase concentration and focus. They work by keeping receptors that are already "fired up" in your brain "turned-on". They can cause tics, and increase your heart rate.
Stimulants
When treating ADHD doctors typically begin with stimulants like methylphenidates or amphetamines. These drugs work quickly to increase concentration and reduce the impulsivity. They can help reduce anxiety in some people by increasing norepinephrine levels. The majority of stimulant drugs are controlled substances, which means they carry a risk of dependence and abuse. However, some adults find that they are able to take them with ease. Initial insomnia can be caused by the medication wear off or a change in sleeping patterns. This can be minimized by taking the medication once per day, rather than three or four times, and also by developing regular routines for sleeping.
Potential side effects from stimulants include a sudden increase in blood pressure, an irregular heartbeat, and changes in hearing or vision. They may also trigger weight loss or anorexia, especially when they are consumed in large doses. Additionally, stimulants can cause a rise in mood lability in certain people and cause psychotic or manic symptoms appear. They are not recommended for those with bipolar disorder or severe anorexia. Mood swings can occur when stimulants suddenly stopped. In these situations it is essential that you gradually reduce the dose.
People suffering from ADHD may be prescribed medications to treat anxiety. Antidepressants such as Sertraline or Fluoxetine, for example are able to help with depression and anxiety that are related to ADHD. adhd in adults medication are typically prescribed "off-label" for ADHD. Some doctors prescribe these medications to treat ADHD however, this usage is not supported by medical research.
Non-stimulant ADHD medications take longer to work but they can decrease the impulsivity of children and improve the amount of attention. They do not affect the level of norepinephrine in the brain as much as stimulants, and they are less likely to trigger rapid heart rate or cause agitation. This class of drugs comprises strattera (atomoxetine) and Clonidine (Kapvay, Intuniv), and Guanfacine (Intuniv, Tenex).
Combinations of strategies, such as cognitive-behavioral treatment, behavior therapy, and medication, are a viable option to treat ADHD and anxiety. Research has shown that the most effective treatment is using a combination of medications and behavioral therapy.
For instance, cognitive-behavioral therapies assists in teaching skills that can aid in reducing anxiety, such as mindfulness meditation, deep breathing and calming techniques. Some children with ADHD also struggle with anxiety. In those instances, the best approach is to treat the ADHD first, then to prescribe an SSRI for anxiety. This will allow the child to concentrate better in school and suffer less ADHD-related anxiety symptoms. To reap the maximum benefits it is essential to attend therapy sessions regularly. A doctor could prescribe a different psychiatric medication to treat anxiety, if needed. This may be a tricyclic antidepressant, such as Tofranil. If anxiety isn't addressed, it could interfere with a child's ability to participate in therapy and gain benefit from it. This is why it's crucial to get the diagnosis and treatment right the first time.
