Best ADHD Medication For Adults With Anxiety
Up to 50% of those with ADHD also suffer from an anxiety disorder. Treatment approaches for managing both conditions include medication as well as therapy.
Stimulants are effective in enhancing attention and focus. They work by keeping receptors that are already "fired up" in your brain "turned-on". They can trigger tics, and also increase your heart rate.
Stimulants
When treating ADHD, doctors often start with stimulants such as methylphenidates or amphetamines. These drugs are effective in helping increase concentration and reduce impulsivity. Some people are able to reduce anxiety by increasing the norepinephrine level. Most stimulant medicines are controlled substances, and consequently are prone to addiction and abuse. Some adults tolerate them well. They can induce insomnia in the beginning, which may be due to a rebound of ADHD symptoms when the medication wears off or due to changes in the pattern of sleep. This can be controlled by taking the medication only every day, instead of taking it three or four times per week, and by creating an established sleeping routine.
Possible side effects of stimulants can include a sudden rise in blood pressure, an irregular heartbeat and changes in vision or hearing. They can also trigger anorexia and weight loss, especially when taken in large doses. Additionally, stimulants can worsen mood lability in some people and make manic or psychotic symptoms manifest. They are not recommended for those who suffer from bipolar disorder or severe anorexia. Stimulants can cause mood swings if they are abruptly stopped. In these situations it is crucial to gradually decrease in the dosage.
The use of medications to treat anxiety that are different than ADHD can be prescribed to people suffering from the condition. Antidepressants such Sertraline or Fluoxetine for instance, can help with depression and anxiety associated with ADHD. These medications are typically prescribed "off-label" for ADHD. Some doctors also prescribe these medications to treat ADHD, but this use is not supported by medical research.
Non-stimulant medications for ADHD are more difficult to use but they can aid in reducing the tendency to be impulsive and increase attention. They do not alter the amount of norepinephrine that is present in the brain as strongly as stimulants, and are less likely to trigger rapid heart rate or cause agitation. adhd anxiety medication of drugs includes strattera (atomoxetine) and Clonidine (Kapvay, Intuniv), and Guanfacine (Intuniv, Tenex).
Combinations of strategies, such as behavioral therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and medications can be used to treat ADHD and anxiety. Research has demonstrated that the most effective treatment is using a combination of medications and behavioral therapy.
Cognitive-behavioral therapies, like help teach skills to reduce anxiety, such as mindfulness, deep breathing and techniques for calming. If children with ADHD have anxiety issues it is recommended to treat the ADHD before prescribing an SSRI. This will help the child focus better at school and experience less anxiety that is related to ADHD. It is important to regularly attend therapy sessions to reap the maximum benefits. If necessary, a physician may suggest an additional medication for psychiatric disorders to help treat anxiety. This could be a tricyclic medication, such as Tofranil. If anxiety isn't addressed, it could affect a child's capacity to participate in therapy and benefit from it. It is essential to determine the cause and the treatment correct the first time.