Medications For ADHD and Anxiety
Medications can be an important part of treatment for both ADHD and anxiety. There are a variety of ADHD medications that can also help alleviate anxiety symptoms and vice in reverse.
Stimulants such as atomoxetine (Prozac) and bupropion (Wellbutrin) increase the availability of norepinephrine and dopamine, neurotransmitters that regulate mood and attention. They are usually prescribed for people with ADHD and anxiety comorbidity.
Stimulants
Stimulants are among the most commonly prescribed medication for ADHD, and they are effective in treating anxiety that is comorbid. They have a rapid effect and increase the activity neurotransmitters quickly in the brain. This helps improve attention, focus and control of impulses. In see it here , stimulants reduce anxiety by reducing heart rate and blood pressure and increasing serotonin levels.
Amphetamines and methylphenidate are the most common stimulant medications prescribed to treat ADHD. These drugs are usually prescribed in a formulation that is short-acting and must be taken twice daily. However there are long-acting ones that last for 8-12 hours. These drugs can cause side effects, such as a change in weight as well as sleeplessness, or a loss of appetite. These medications can also cause tics and headaches.
In certain instances stimulants can exacerbate anxiety symptoms. They should not be prescribed to those suffering from bipolar or anxiety disorders. They can also be addictive and have been linked with suicidal thoughts or attempts in adolescents. Doctors typically prescribe a combination therapy and non-stimulant medication to treat ADHD and anxiety.
Your doctor will take into account your symptoms, their causes, and the interplay between them when determining which drug is most effective for you. It is the same for anxiety or ADHD. They may also look at alternatives to treatment, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or lifestyle factors like diet and exercise.
Non-stimulant medications are usually preferred for treating coexisting ADHD and anxiety in adults, since they do not have the same adverse side effects as stimulants. Strattera (atomoxetine) and Qelbree (viloxazine) are two examples of non-stimulant drugs that are FDA-approved to treat ADHD and that can also relieve anxiety symptoms. These medications can enhance mood regulation, impulse control and attention span by increasing the brain neurotransmitter, norepinephrine. These medications don't restrict appetite, nor can they cause jitters or shaking.
It can be challenging to manage anxiety and ADHD simultaneously, but with the right support, it is possible. The board-certified healthcare professionals on Klarity have years of experience treating patients with these two common ailments and can give you the tools to overcome these challenges. You can make your first appointment in 24 hours with a doctor who will give you an assessment and prescription, and pick up the medication at the pharmacy you prefer and all from the comfort of your home. Learn how easy it is to start with ADHD and anxiety treatment today!