Medications For ADHD and Anxiety
The use of medications is an essential part 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 mood and attention. Adults suffering from ADHD and anxiety are often the first ones to be prescribed these drugs.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most frequently used medication for ADHD and can be effective at treating anxiety comorbidity as well. They are fast-acting and work quickly to increase the activity of neurotransmitters in the brain, which helps increase focus, attention, and impulse control. The stimulants can also reduce anxiety, by lowering blood pressure and heart rate and increasing levels of serotonin.
The most commonly used stimulant drugs used to treat ADHD are methylphenidate (Ritalin) and amphetamines. They are typically prescribed in a short-acting form and are required to be taken 3 times a day, but there are also long-acting forms of these drugs that last between 8 and 12 hours and are taken one time per day. adhd medication can trigger adverse reactions, such as an increase in weight as well as sleeplessness or losing appetite. These medications can also cause tics and headaches.
In some instances stimulants can exacerbate anxiety symptoms. They are not recommended to those suffering from bipolar or anxiety disorders. They can also be addictive, and have been linked to suicidal ideas and attempts in adolescents. Most often, doctors prescribe therapy in combination with non-stimulant drugs for ADHD and anxiety.
Your doctor will take into account your symptoms, their causes, and the interactions between them when determining which drug is most effective for you. This includes anxiety or ADHD. They will also consider other treatment approaches like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and lifestyle factors, such as exercise and diet.
Non-stimulant medications are usually recommended for treating co-occurring ADHD and anxiety in adults because they do not have the same side effects as stimulants. Strattera (atomoxetine) and Qelbree (viloxazine) are two examples of non-stimulant drugs that have been approved by the FDA to treat ADHD and that can also relieve anxiety symptoms. These medications can help improve mood regulation, impulse control, and attention span by enhancing the brain neurotransmitter norepinephrine. adhd medications do not suppress appetite or cause jitters and shaking, which are common negative side effects of stimulants.
Controlling anxiety and ADHD at the same time can be challenging, but it is possible with the right help. The board-certified healthcare professionals on Klarity have extensive experience in treating patients with these two common ailments and can give you the strategies to overcome them. You can make your first virtual appointment within 24 hours with a healthcare professional, receive a prescription and diagnosis, and pick up the medicine at the pharmacy of your choice and all from the comfort of your home. Learn how easy it is to get started with ADHD and anxiety treatment today!