Medications For ADHD and Anxiety
The use of medications is an essential part of treatment for both ADHD and anxiety. There are several ADHD medications that can also help alleviate anxiety symptoms and vice in reverse.
Stimulants like atomoxetine (Prozac) and bupropion (Wellbutrin) increase the amount of dopamine and norepinephrine, neurotransmitters that regulate attention and mood. They're usually prescribed first for people with ADHD and comorbid anxiety.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most frequently used medication for ADHD and are effective in treating anxiety that is comorbid. They are fast-acting and can be effective in boosting the activity of neurotransmitters within the brain, which helps improve attention, focus, and impulse control. In addition, stimulants can reduce anxiety by lowering heart rate and blood pressure and increasing serotonin levels.
Amphetamines and methylphenidate are the most commonly prescribed stimulant medications to treat ADHD. They are usually prescribed in a short-acting form and are required to be taken twice every day. However there are long-acting ones that last for 8-12 hours. Some people experience side reactions from these drugs, including a loss of appetite, difficulty sleeping and weight loss or hair growth. They may also trigger headaches, tics, and irritability.
In adhd medications can increase anxiety symptoms. They are not advised for those who have a history of anxiety or bipolar disorder. They are also addictive and have been associated with suicidal thoughts and attempts in adolescents. In most cases, doctors prescribe a combination of 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 best for anxiety or ADHD. They will also look at other treatment options like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and lifestyle factors like exercise and diet.
Non-stimulant drugs, which do not have the same adverse effects as stimulants, are frequently utilized to treat ADHD and anxiety in adults. Strattera (atomoxetine) and Qelbree (viloxazine) are two examples of non-stimulant medicines that are FDA-approved for treating ADHD and also reduce anxiety symptoms. These medications increase levels of the brain neurotransmitter norepinephrine and can improve the ability to control impulses and attention span as well as mood regulation. These medications don't reduce appetite, nor do they cause jitters or shakes.
It can be challenging to manage anxiety and ADHD simultaneously, but with the right support, it is possible. The health professionals who are board-certified on Klarity have experience treating patients with these two common ailments and can provide you with strategies to overcome these challenges. You can make your first virtual appointment within 24 hours with a doctor who will give you an assessment and prescription, and then pick up the medication at the pharmacy you prefer in the comfort of your home. Find out how simple it is to begin your ADHD and anxiety treatment.