Medications For ADHD and Anxiety
Medications can be an important component of treatment for both ADHD and anxiety. There are many ADHD drugs that can also alleviate anxiety symptoms.
Stimulants like atomoxetine (Prozac) and bupropion (Wellbutrin) boost the supply of dopamine and norepinephrine neurotransmitters that regulate mood and attention. Adults suffering from ADHD and anxiety are typically the first ones to be prescribed these medications.
Stimulants
Stimulants are used to treat comorbid anxiety and ADHD. They have a fast-acting effect and help to speed up the activity of neurotransmitters in the brain, thereby helping to improve attention, focus and control of impulses. Additionally, stimulants can help reduce anxiety by lowering blood pressure and heart rate and increasing serotonin levels.
The most common stimulant medications used to treat ADHD are methylphenidate (Ritalin) and amphetamines. These medications are typically prescribed in a formulation that is short-acting and are required to be taken twice daily. However, there are long-acting versions that last for 8-12 hours. Some people experience side reactions from these drugs which include a loss of appetite, insomnia and changes in weight or hair growth. These medications can also cause tics and headaches.
In some instances, stimulants can worsen anxiety symptoms. They are not advised for those who have a history of anxiety or bipolar disorder. They are also addictive and have been linked with suicidal thoughts and attempts in adolescents. In most cases, doctors prescribe therapy in combination with non-stimulant drugs for ADHD and anxiety.
Your doctor will take into consideration your symptoms, their causes and the interaction between them when determining which medication is best for you. It is the same for anxiety or ADHD. adhd medications Iam Psychiatry may also look at alternative treatment options like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or lifestyle factors like exercise and diet.
Non-stimulant drugs are typically used to treat co-occurring ADHD and anxiety in adults, since they do not have the same adverse effects as stimulants. Strattera (atomoxetine) and Qelbree (viloxazine) are two examples of non-stimulant drugs that are FDA-approved to treat ADHD and that can also help alleviate anxiety symptoms. These medications boost levels of the brain neurotransmitter norepinephrine, and they can help improve the ability to control impulses, attention span, and mood regulation. These medications don't reduce appetite, nor do they cause jitters or shaking.
It can be challenging to manage anxiety and ADHD at the same time, but with the right help it is possible. The health professionals who are board-certified on Klarity have years of experience treating patients with these two conditions and can give you the tools to overcome them. With Klarity you can make your initial virtual appointment with a healthcare professional within 24 hours to receive an assessment and prescription, and pick up your medication from the pharmacy of your choice--all at the convenience of your own home. Find out how simple to begin with ADHD and anxiety treatment today!
