Best ADHD Medication For Adults With Anxiety
As high as 50% of adults who suffer from ADHD also suffer from an anxiety disorder. Both medication and therapy are effective treatments for both conditions.
Stimulants can help improve concentration and focus. They work by keeping receptors that are already "fired up" in your brain "turned-on". They can cause tics, and increase your heart rate.
Stimulants
Stimulants, such as amphetamines and methylphenidates are the first medications doctors typically use when treating ADHD. These drugs work quickly to enhance concentration and decrease impulsivity. They can also alleviate anxiety in certain people by boosting norepinephrine levels. The majority of stimulant medications are controlled substances, which means they are prone to addiction and abuse. Some adults are tolerant of them. They do cause insomnia at first, which may result from a rebound of ADHD symptoms after the medication is taken off or an alteration in sleep patterns. This can be reduced by taking the medication every day, instead of taking it three or more times a week, and also by creating a regular sleeping schedule.
Possible side effects of stimulants could include a sudden rise in blood pressure, irregular heartbeat and changes in vision or hearing. They can also cause anorexia and weight loss, particularly when taken in high doses. The stimulants can also cause mood instability in some people and can cause psychotic or manic-like symptoms to manifest. They are contraindicated in people with bipolar disorder or severe anorexia. The stimulants can trigger mood swings if they are abruptly stopped. In these situations it is crucial to slowly reduction in the dosage.
People suffering from ADHD may be prescribed medications to help treat anxiety. For instance, antidepressants such as SSRIs such Sertraline and Fluoxetine may help with ADHD-related anxiety, as well as depression. These drugs are typically prescribed "off-label" for ADHD. Some doctors prescribe them for ADHD, but medical research doesn't support this usage.
Non-stimulant medications for ADHD are slower to work however they can reduce impulsivity and improve focus. They are less likely than stimulants to cause agitation or rapid heart rate because they don't increase the amount of norepinephrine in the brain. This class of drugs includes strattera (atomoxetine) and Clonidine (Kapvay, Intuniv), and Guanfacine (Intuniv, Tenex).
A variety of strategies can be used to manage ADHD and anxiety, including behavior therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy and medication. Research has shown that the most effective treatment is using a combination of medications and behavioral therapy.
For instance, cognitive-behavioral therapies aids in teaching skills that could aid in reducing anxiety, such as mindfulness meditation, read more deep breathing and techniques for calming. In the event that children suffering from ADHD suffer from anxiety issues, it is best to treat the ADHD before prescribing an SSRI. This will allow the child to concentrate better at school and experience less anxiety that is related to ADHD. To reap the maximum benefits it is crucial to keep attending therapy sessions regularly. A doctor could prescribe a different psychiatric medication to treat anxiety, if needed. This could be a tricyclic medication, such as Tofranil. If anxiety is not addressed, it may hinder the ability of a child to participate in and benefit from therapy. It is essential to get the diagnosis right and the treatment correct the first time.