Medications For ADHD and Anxiety
Medications can be an important element of treatment for both ADHD and anxiety. There are a variety of ADHD drugs that can also alleviate anxiety symptoms.
Stimulants such as atomoxetine (Prozac) and bupropion (Wellbutrin) boost the supply of norepinephrine and dopamine, neurotransmitters that regulate attention and mood. They're usually prescribed first for adults suffering from ADHD and comorbid anxiety.
Stimulants
Stimulants are among the most commonly used treatment for ADHD and can be effective at treating anxiety that is comorbid. They help to speed up the activity of neurotransmitters within the brain, which helps improve focus, attention and impulse control. In addition, stimulants aid in reducing anxiety by lowering blood pressure and heart rate and increasing serotonin levels.
The most popular stimulant medications used to treat ADHD are methylphenidate (Ritalin) and amphetamines. They are typically prescribed in a short-acting form and should be taken a couple of times a day. However, there are long-acting variants of these drugs that last 8-12 hours and are taken one time every day. There are some who experience adverse reactions from these drugs such as a decrease in appetite, trouble sleeping and changes in weight or hair growth. These medications can also trigger tics and headaches.
In some instances stimulants can increase anxiety symptoms. They are not recommended for people with an anxiety history or bipolar disorder. They can also be addictive, and have been linked with suicidal ideas and attempts in adolescents. Doctors typically prescribe a combination therapy and nonstimulant medication for ADHD and anxiety.
Your doctor will take into consideration your symptoms, their causes and the interplay between them when determining which treatment is most effective for anxiety or ADHD. They may also look at alternatives to treatment, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or lifestyle factors such as exercise and diet.
Non-stimulant medicines are generally recommended for treating co-occurring ADHD and anxiety in adults, as they don't cause the same adverse side effects as stimulants. medication for adhd and anxiety (atomoxetine) and Qelbree, (viloxazine), are FDA-approved non-stimulant medications to treat ADHD. They can also relieve anxiety symptoms. These medications can improve mood regulation, impulse control, and attention span by enhancing the brain neurotransmitter norepinephrine. These medications don't restrict appetite, nor can they cause jitters or shakes.
Controlling anxiety and ADHD at the same time can be challenging but it is doable with the right help. The medical professionals certified by the board on Klarity have extensive experience in treating patients suffering from these two common conditions and can provide you with the strategies to overcome these challenges. With Klarity, you can have your initial virtual appointment with a provider within 24 hours to receive an assessment and prescription, and pick up your medication from the pharmacy of your choice--all from the comfort of your home. Find out how simple it is to get started with ADHD and anxiety treatment today!