Best ADHD Medication For Adults With Anxiety
As high as 50% of adults who suffer from ADHD also suffer from an anxiety disorder. Treatment options for both conditions include medication as well as therapy.
Stimulants can be effective in improving attention and focus. They work by keeping receptors that are already "fired up" in your brain "turned-on". They can trigger tics, and also increase your heart rate.
Stimulants
Stimulants, like amphetamines and methylphenidates are the first medication doctors usually try in treating ADHD. These drugs work quickly to enhance concentration and reduce impulsivity. Certain people can reduce anxiety by boosting the norepinephrine level. The majority of stimulant drugs are controlled substances, which means they have a high risk of abuse and addiction. Some adults can tolerate them quite well. They can cause insomnia at first that could result from a rebound of ADHD symptoms after the medication wears off or an alteration in sleep patterns. medications for adhd in adults can be reduced by taking the medication only once per day, instead of three or four times per week, and also by creating regular sleeping patterns.
Possible side effects of stimulants can include a sudden rise in blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, or changes in hearing or vision. They can also trigger anorexia and weight loss, particularly when taken in high doses. They can also increase mood instability in some people and can cause manic or psychotic symptoms to manifest. They are contraindicated in people who suffer from bipolar disorder or severe anorexia. They can cause mood swings when suddenly stopped. In these cases it is essential to gradually reduction in the dose.
Treatments for anxiety that are different than ADHD may be used for people suffering from the condition. For example antidepressants like SSRIs such Sertraline and Fluoxetine may aid in the treatment of anxiety related to ADHD and depression. These drugs are typically prescribed "off-label", for ADHD. Some doctors also prescribe them to treat ADHD however, this usage is not supported by medical research.
Non-stimulant ADHD medications take longer to act however they can help reduce impulsivity and increase the amount of attention. They are less likely than stimulants to trigger anxiety or a rapid heart rate since they don't increase the amount of norepinephrine within 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, which includes behavioral therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy and medication. The most effective treatment for ADHD and anxiety is a combination of medication and behavioral therapy.
Cognitive-behavioral therapies, for example, teach skills that reduce anxiety, such as deep breathing, mindfulness, and calming techniques. In cases where children with ADHD have anxiety issues, it is best to treat the ADHD before prescribing an SSRI. This will allow the child to focus better in school and suffer less ADHD-related anxiety symptoms. It is important to attend therapy regularly to reap the maximum benefit. Then, if needed, a doctor may recommend an additional psychiatric medication to treat anxiety. This may be a tricyclic antidepressant such as Tofranil. If anxiety isn't addressed, it could hinder a child's ability to participate in therapy and gain benefits from it. It is essential to get the diagnosis right and the correct treatment the first time.