Best ADHD Medication For Adults With Anxiety
Anxiety disorders can affect up to 50 percent of adults with ADHD. Therapy and medication are effective treatments for both disorders.
Stimulants can increase focus and attention. adhd medications for adults work by keeping already activated brain receptors "turned on" or "fired up." They can cause the tics of your brain and can increase your heart rate slightly.
Stimulants
When treating ADHD doctors typically begin with stimulants such as methylphenidates or amphetamines. They work quickly to increase concentration and reduce impulsivity. Certain people can reduce anxiety by boosting the norepinephrine level. Most stimulant medicines are controlled substances and therefore are prone to dependence and abuse. However certain adults find that they are able to take them with ease. Initial insomnia can be caused by the medication wear off or a change in sleep patterns. This can be lowered by taking the drug only every day, rather than three or four times, and by establishing regular sleeping routines.
Stimulants can have adverse effects, such as an abrupt increase in blood pressure, irregular heartbeats, and changes in sound or vision. They can also trigger weight loss and anorexia, especially when taken in large doses. They can also increase mood instability in certain people and can cause manic or psychotic symptoms to develop. They are not recommended for people with bipolar disorder or severe anorexia. The mood swings can occur when stimulants are suddenly removed. In these instances, it is important to gradually decrease the dose.
People with ADHD might be prescribed medication to manage anxiety. For instance antidepressants like SSRIs like Sertraline and Fluoxetine can sometimes help with ADHD-related anxiety, as well as depression. These drugs are typically prescribed "off-label" for ADHD. Some doctors prescribe these medications to treat ADHD however, this usage is not supported by research in medical science.
Non-stimulant ADHD medicines take longer to act, but they can reduce impulsivity and increase the amount of attention. They are less likely than stimulants to trigger agitation or rapid heart rate, as they do not increase the amount of norepinephrine that is present in the brain. This class of drugs comprises strattera (atomoxetine) and Clonidine (Kapvay, Intuniv), and Guanfacine (Intuniv, Tenex).
A combination of strategies can be utilized to manage ADHD and anxiety, including behavior therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy and medications. Research has demonstrated that the most effective treatment is using a combination of medications and behavioral therapy.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy, for instance, teach skills that reduce anxiety, like mindfulness, deep breathing, and techniques for calming. In cases where children with ADHD suffer from anxiety issues it is recommended 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 benefits. If necessary, a doctor may recommend an additional medication for psychiatric disorders to help treat anxiety. This could be a tricyclic, like Tofranil. If anxiety is not addressed, it may hinder the ability of a child to take part in and benefit from therapy. This is why it's crucial to determine the cause and treatment right the first time.