Medications For ADHD and Anxiety
Medications can be an important part of treatment for both ADHD and anxiety. There are a variety of ADHD drugs that can help with anxiety symptoms, and vice in reverse.
Stimulants like atomoxetine and bupropion (Wellbutrin), increase the availability of dopamine and other neurotransmitters that regulate mood as well as attention. They're typically prescribed first to people with ADHD and comorbid anxiety.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most frequently used treatment for ADHD and are effective in treating anxiety that is comorbid. They are fast-acting and help to speed up the activity of neurotransmitters within the brain, which helps improve focus, attention and impulse control. In addition, stimulants can aid in reducing anxiety by reducing heart rate and blood pressure and increasing serotonin levels.
The most popular stimulant medications used to treat ADHD are methylphenidate (Ritalin) and amphetamines. They are usually prescribed in a short-acting form and are required to be taken twice every day. However there are also long-acting ones that last for 8-12 hours. These medications can trigger adverse reactions, such as an increase in weight and sleepiness or losing appetite. concerta adhd medication can also cause tics and headaches.
In some cases stimulants can exacerbate anxiety symptoms and are not recommended for those who have a history of anxiety or bipolar disorder. They are also addictive and have been linked to suicidal thoughts and attempts in adolescents. Most often, doctors prescribe a combination of therapy and non-stimulant medication to treat ADHD and anxiety.
When you are trying to determine the best medication for anxiety and ADHD your doctor will take into consideration your specific symptoms, what's causing them, and how they interact with each with each other. They may also look at alternative treatment options like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or lifestyle factors like diet and exercise.
Non-stimulant drugs that don't have the same side-effects as stimulants, are often preferred to treat ADHD and anxiety in adults. concerta adhd medication (atomoxetine) and Qelbree (viloxazine) are two examples of non-stimulant medicines that are FDA-approved to treat ADHD and that can 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 shakes.
The management of anxiety and ADHD at the same time isn't easy but it is doable with the right support. The board-certified health professionals on Klarity are skilled in treating patients with these two conditions and can provide you with the necessary tools to overcome these challenges. You can make your first appointment in 24 hours with a provider who will give you an assessment and prescription, and then pick up the medication at the pharmacy you prefer, all from the comfort of your home. Find out how simple to begin with ADHD and anxiety treatment today!