Five Things You've Never Learned About Medication For ADHD And Anxiety

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, such as atomoxetine or bupropion (Wellbutrin) can increase the availability of dopamine and other neurotransmitters that regulate mood as well as attention. Adults suffering from ADHD and anxiety are often the first to be prescribed these drugs.

Stimulants

Stimulants are the most frequently used treatment for ADHD and are effective in treating anxiety that is comorbid. They are fast-acting and work quickly to increase the activity of neurotransmitters in the brain, which helps improve focus, attention and control of impulses. Stimulants can also help reduce anxiety by reducing blood pressure and heart rate as well as increasing the levels of serotonin.

Amphetamines and methylphenidate are among the most commonly prescribed stimulant medications to treat ADHD. They are usually prescribed in the short-acting type and should be taken a couple of times a day, but there are also long-acting forms of these drugs that last between 8 and 12 hours and are taken only once each day. There are some who experience adverse reactions from these drugs such as a decrease in appetite, trouble sleeping and weight loss or hair growth. These medications can also cause headaches and tics.

In some instances, stimulants can worsen anxiety symptoms. They are not advised for those who have a history of anxiety or bipolar disorder. They can also be addictive and have been linked to suicidal ideas and attempts in adolescents. Most often, doctors prescribe a combination of therapy and non-stimulant drugs for ADHD and anxiety.

Your doctor will consider your symptoms, their causes and the interplay between them when determining which treatment is best for you. This includes anxiety or ADHD. They will also consider other treatment options, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and lifestyle factors, like exercise and diet.

Non-stimulant medications are usually preferred for treating coexisting ADHD and anxiety in adults, since they don't have the same adverse effects as stimulants. Strattera (atomoxetine) and Qelbree, (viloxazine), are FDA-approved non-stimulant medications to treat ADHD. They also help alleviate anxiety symptoms. These medications boost levels of the brain neurotransmitter norepinephrine, and they can help improve impulse control as well as attention span and mood regulation. These medications do not suppress appetite or trigger jitters and shakiness that are common adverse effects of stimulants.

Managing  I Am Psychiatry  and ADHD at the same time can be challenging but it's possible with the right help. The medical professionals certified by the board on Klarity have extensive experience in treating patients with these two conditions and can provide you with the tools to overcome these challenges. You can get your first virtual appointment within 24 hours with a provider, receive a prescription and diagnosis and then pick up the medication at the pharmacy you prefer and all from the comfort of your own home. Find out how easy to begin with ADHD and anxiety treatment today!