Medications For ADHD and Anxiety
Both ADHD and anxiety can be treated using medication. There are many ADHD drugs that can also relieve anxiety symptoms.
Stimulants, such as atomoxetine or bupropion (Wellbutrin), increase the availability of dopamine and other neurotransmitters that regulate mood as well as attention. They are usually prescribed for adults suffering from ADHD and comorbid anxiety.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most commonly used treatment for ADHD, and they are effective in treating comorbid anxiety as well. They are fast-acting and work quickly to increase the activity of neurotransmitters within the brain, helping to improve focus, attention and control of impulses. Additionally, stimulants can help reduce anxiety by reducing blood pressure and heart rate and increasing serotonin levels.
The most commonly used stimulant drugs used to treat ADHD are methylphenidate (Ritalin) and amphetamines. They are usually prescribed in the short-acting type and are required to be taken 3 times a day. However, there are also long-acting forms of these drugs that last between 8 and 12 hours and are taken one time every day. adhd medication list can cause adverse effects, including a change in weight and sleepiness, or a loss of appetite. These medications can also cause tics and headaches.
In some cases stimulants can increase anxiety symptoms. They aren't recommended for people with a history of anxiety or bipolar disorder. They can also be addictive, and have been associated with suicidal thoughts and attempts in adolescents. Often, doctors will prescribe therapy in combination with non-stimulant medications to treat ADHD and anxiety.
When you are trying to determine the best medication for anxiety and ADHD your doctor will consider your specific symptoms, what's causing them, and how they interact with each other. They will also take into consideration other treatment options like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and lifestyle factors, such as diet and exercise.
Non-stimulant medications are usually preferred for treating coexisting ADHD and anxiety in adults because they don't cause the same adverse effects as stimulants. Strattera (atomoxetine), and Qelbree, (viloxazine), are FDA-approved medications that do not stimulate the brain to treat ADHD. They can also help alleviate anxiety symptoms. These medications can improve mood regulation, impulse control and attention span by increasing the brain neurotransmitter, norepinephrine. These medications do not suppress appetite or cause jitters or shaking which are typical side effects of stimulants.
It can be difficult to manage anxiety and ADHD at the same time however with the right support, it is possible. The board-certified healthcare providers on Klarity are skilled in treating patients suffering from these 2 common conditions and will provide you with the tools to overcome these challenges. With Klarity you can schedule your first virtual appointment with a provider within 24 hours to receive the diagnosis and prescription, and then pick up your medication from the pharmacy of your choice--all from the comfort of home. Find out how simple it is to start your ADHD and anxiety treatment.