Medications For ADHD and Anxiety
Both ADHD and anxiety can be treated using medications. There are a myriad of ADHD medications that can relieve anxiety symptoms.
Stimulants like atomoxetine (Prozac) and bupropion (Wellbutrin) increase the availability of norepinephrine and dopamine, neurotransmitters that regulate mood and attention. They're usually prescribed first for people with ADHD and comorbid anxiety.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most frequently prescribed medication for ADHD, and they can be effective at treating anxiety that is comorbid. They have a rapid effect and increase the activity neurotransmitters rapidly in the brain. This can improve concentration, focus and control of impulses. In addition, stimulants help reduce anxiety by lowering heart rate and blood pressure and increasing serotonin levels.
The most commonly used stimulant drugs used to treat ADHD are methylphenidate (Ritalin) and amphetamines. They are usually prescribed in a formulation that is short-acting and must be taken twice daily. However there are longer-acting versions that last 8-12 hours. There are some who experience adverse reactions from these drugs which include a loss of appetite, difficulty sleeping and changes in weight or hair growth. They may also trigger headaches, tics, and irritability.
In some instances stimulants can increase anxiety symptoms. They aren't advised for those with an anxiety history or bipolar disorder. They can also be addictive and have been linked to suicidal thoughts or attempts by adolescents. In most cases, doctors prescribe therapy in combination with non-stimulant drugs to treat ADHD and anxiety.
Your doctor will consider your symptoms, their causes, and the interplay between them when determining which treatment is best for anxiety or ADHD. types of adhd medication will also take into consideration other treatment options, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and lifestyle factors, such as diet and exercise.
Non-stimulant drugs that do not cause the same negative side effects as stimulants, are typically used to treat ADHD and anxiety in adults. Strattera (atomoxetine) and Qelbree (viloxazine) are two examples of non-stimulant drugs that have been approved by the FDA to treat ADHD and also help alleviate anxiety symptoms. These medications boost levels of the brain neurotransmitter norepinephrine, and can aid in improving impulse control as well as attention span and mood regulation. These medications do NOT reduce appetite, nor do they cause jitters or shaking.
It can be challenging to manage anxiety and ADHD simultaneously however with the right help it is possible. The board-certified healthcare professionals on Klarity are skilled in treating patients suffering from these 2 common conditions and can provide you with the necessary tools to overcome them. You can schedule your first appointment in 24 hours with a healthcare professional get an assessment and prescription, and pick up the medication at the pharmacy you choose in the comfort of your own home. Find out how simple it is to get started with ADHD and anxiety treatment today!