Best ADHD Medication For Adults With Anxiety
About 50% of those who suffer from ADHD also suffer from an anxiety disorder. Both therapy and medication are effective treatments for both conditions.
Stimulants can improve focus and concentration. They work by keeping activated receptors in your brain "turned on" or "fired up." They are often associated with tics and may increase your heart rate a little.
Stimulants
Stimulants, like amphetamines and methylphenidates, are the first medication doctors typically use when treating ADHD. These drugs work quickly to improve focus and decrease the amount of impulsivity. Some people are able to reduce anxiety by boosting the level of norepinephrine. Most stimulant drugs are controlled substances and carry the risk of addiction and abuse. However certain adults find that they are able to take them without issue. They do cause insomnia at first that could be due to a relapse of ADHD symptoms after the medication wears off or an alteration in sleep patterns. This can be reduced by taking the medication only once per day, rather than three or four times, and by establishing regular sleeping routines.
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 cause anorexia and weight loss, particularly when taken in high doses. They can also increase mood instability in some individuals and can cause manic or psychotic symptoms to appear. They are not recommended for those who suffer from bipolar disorder, or severe anorexia. Mood swings can also occur when stimulants suddenly removed. In these situations it is crucial to take a gradual reduction in the dosage.
People with ADHD may be prescribed medications to manage anxiety. For instance, antidepressants such as SSRIs like Sertraline and Fluoxetine can sometimes aid in the treatment of anxiety related to ADHD and depression. These drugs are typically prescribed "off-label" for ADHD. Certain doctors also prescribe them to treat ADHD however, this usage is not supported by research in medical science.
Non-stimulant ADHD medications take longer to act however they can help reduce the tendency to be impulsive and increase attention. They do not affect the level of norepinephrine in the brain as strongly as stimulants, and are less likely to cause rapid heart rate or cause agitation. This class of medications includes strattera (atomoxetine) and Clonidine (Kapvay, Intuniv), and Guanfacine (Intuniv, Tenex).
A combination of strategies can be utilized to manage ADHD and anxiety, which includes behavioral therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy and medications. adult add medication has proven that the most effective treatment is the combination of medication and behavioral therapy.
For instance, cognitive-behavioral therapy aids in teaching skills that could reduce anxiety in people, such as deep breathing, mindfulness meditation and calming techniques. In cases where children with ADHD have anxiety problems it is advisable to treat the ADHD before prescribing an SSRI. This will help the child focus better at school and will experience less anxiety related to ADHD. To achieve the best results it is crucial to attend therapy sessions regularly. A doctor could prescribe a psychiatric drug to treat anxiety, if needed. This could be a tricyclic medication, such as Tofranil. If anxiety isn't treated, it could hinder the child's ability to benefit from therapy. It is important to establish the correct diagnosis and the treatment right the first time.