Medications For ADHD and Anxiety
Medications can be an important component of treatment for both ADHD and anxiety. There are a myriad of ADHD drugs that can also help with anxiety symptoms.
Stimulants like atomoxetine (Prozac) and bupropion (Wellbutrin) increase the amount of dopamine and norepinephrine neurotransmitters that regulate mood and attention. Adults with ADHD and anxiety are usually the first to receive these drugs.
Stimulants
Stimulants are used to treat anxiety disorders that are comorbid and ADHD. They have a fast-acting effect and work quickly to increase the activity of neurotransmitters in the brain, which helps improve focus, attention, and impulse control. The stimulants can also reduce anxiety, by reducing blood pressure and heart rate, as well as increasing levels of serotonin.
The most popular stimulant medications used to treat ADHD are methylphenidate (Ritalin) and amphetamines. These medications are typically prescribed in a short-acting form and should be taken two times daily. However there are long-acting ones that last for 8-12 hours. These medications can trigger side effects, such as weight loss as well as sleeplessness, or a loss of appetite. They may also trigger headaches, tics, and an increase in irritability.
In some instances, stimulants may worsen anxiety symptoms. They should not be prescribed to people with bipolar or anxiety disorders. They are also addictive and have been linked with suicidal thoughts or attempts in adolescents. Often, doctors will prescribe a combination of therapy and non-stimulant medications to treat ADHD and anxiety.
When you are trying to determine the most effective medication for anxiety and ADHD your doctor will consider your specific symptoms, the causes of them and how they interact with each with each other. They will also take into consideration other treatment approaches like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and lifestyle factors, like diet and exercise.
Non-stimulant medicines are generally preferred for treating coexisting ADHD and anxiety in adults, since they do not have the same 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 boost levels of the brain neurotransmitter norepinephrine, and can aid in improving the control of impulses as well as attention span and mood regulation. These medications do not suppress appetite or cause jitters or shakiness which are typical adverse effects of stimulants.
It can be challenging to manage anxiety and ADHD simultaneously however with the right help it is possible. The medical professionals certified by the board on Klarity have experience treating patients with these two common conditions and can give you the strategies to overcome these challenges. You can get 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 choose in the comfort of your own home. Learn how easy inattentive adhd medication is to get started with ADHD and anxiety treatment today!