Medication For ADHD and Anxiety
Stimulants such as methylphenidates, Adderall and dextroamphetamines are some of the most common drugs for ADHD. These medications increase and balance the levels of brain chemicals.
These medications can cause side-effects like jitteriness or increased heart rate, which can exacerbate anxiety symptoms. These medications aren't typically prescribed to those who suffer from both ADHD and anxiety.
Stimulants
The medications used to treat ADHD can help reduce anxiety among people suffering from the condition. However, they're not an effective treatment for the disorder, so it is essential to continue with therapy sessions or other methods of treatment in addition to taking your medication. If side effects are severe or interfere in your daily routine, talk with your doctor about changing the dosage or trying another drug.
Common medications prescribed by doctors for ADHD include methylphenidate (Ritalin) and amphetamines (Adderall). These medications increase the supply of brain chemicals involved in paying attention, organizing thoughts and controlling impulses.
But these medicines can have unwanted side effects, like jitteriness, increased heart rate and anxiety. These symptoms may resemble symptoms of anxiety or exacerbate anxiety disorders. This is the reason why medical professionals don't usually prescribe ADHD stimulant medication such as mixed amphetamine salts or atomoxetine to those who have a diagnosed anxiety disorder.
It's crucial to speak with your doctor about any restrictions you may have before starting treatment. These medications may also cause adverse reactions when taken with certain beverages and foods. It is also important to inform your doctor about any other supplements or prescription medicines you're taking and any health issues or lifestyle factors that may affect the way your medication performs.
It's not uncommon for people to suffer from a co-occurring anxiety disorder with ADHD. About half of people with ADHD also suffer from an anxiety disorder. Controlling ADHD symptoms can help ease anxiety, as treating the executive dysfunction of ADHD can alleviate stress related to organizational skills and time management issues, says Claire Streeter, PMHNP, ARNP, a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with Charlie Health Psychiatric Mental Health Services.
A few of the most frequently prescribed ADHD medication, like dextroamphetamine, methylphenidate and others, are also effective for treating anxiety. These medications work by increasing the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. This improves concentration and manage your impulses. adhd stimulant medication can also lower blood pressure and heart rate and also have a relaxing effect. A majority of doctors prescribe long-acting extended-release formulations of these drugs, which build up in the bloodstream over a longer amount of time. This minimizes the peaks and valleys of symptoms that happen after the medication has worn off and helps prevent anxiety from getting worse when the medication is worn off. Streeter explains that these drugs are less likely to cause an "rebound" affect, which could make ADHD or anxiety symptoms worse after the medication has worn off.