Medications For ADHD and Anxiety
Medications can be an important part of treatment for both ADHD and anxiety. There are a myriad of ADHD drugs that are able to relieve anxiety symptoms.
Stimulants such as atomoxetine and bupropion (Wellbutrin) can increase the availability dopamine and norepinephrine neurotransmitters that regulate mood and attention. adhd and medication with ADHD and anxiety are often the first to receive these medications.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most frequently used treatment for ADHD, and they are effective in treating anxiety comorbidity as well. They are fast-acting and help to speed up the activity of neurotransmitters in the brain, helping to improve attention, focus and control of impulses. In addition, stimulants reduce anxiety by reducing heart rate and blood pressure and increasing serotonin levels.
Amphetamines and methylphenidate are the most frequently prescribed stimulant drugs to treat ADHD. They are typically prescribed in the short-acting form and are required to be taken 3 times per day, however there are also long-acting forms of these drugs that last between 8 and 12 hours and are taken one time each day. These medications can cause side effects, such as an increase in weight and sleepiness or losing appetite. These medications can also cause headaches and tics.
In some instances stimulants can exacerbate anxiety symptoms. They are not advised for those who have an anxiety history or bipolar disorder. They can also be addictive, and have been linked with suicidal thoughts and attempts in adolescents. Most often, doctors prescribe therapy in combination with non-stimulant drugs to treat ADHD and anxiety.
Your doctor will take into account your symptoms, their causes and the interactions between them when determining which drug is the best for anxiety or ADHD. They will also consider alternative treatment options like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or lifestyle factors such as diet and exercise.
Non-stimulant drugs that don't have the same negative side effects as stimulants, are often used to treat ADHD and anxiety in adults. Strattera (atomoxetine) and Qelbree (viloxazine) are two examples of non-stimulant medications that have been approved by the FDA to treat ADHD and also relieve anxiety symptoms. These drugs increase levels of the brain neurotransmitter, norepinephrine and they can help improve impulse control, attention span, and mood regulation. These drugs do not reduce appetite or cause jitters and shakiness that are common side effects of stimulants.
The management of anxiety and ADHD at the same time can be challenging but it's possible with the right support. The board-certified health professionals on Klarity are experienced in treating patients with these two common ailments and will give you the tools to overcome these challenges. With Klarity you can make your first virtual appointment with a provider within 24 hours receiving a diagnosis and prescription, then pick up your medication from the pharmacy of your choice--all at the convenience of your own home. Find out how adhd and medication is to begin your ADHD and anxiety treatment.