Best ADHD Medication For Adults With Anxiety
As high as 50% of people who suffer from ADHD also suffer from an anxiety disorder. Both therapy and medication are effective treatments for both conditions.
Stimulants are effective in enhancing attention and focus. They work by keeping already activated brain receptors "turned on" or "fired up." They can cause tics and may increase your heart rate slightly.
Stimulants
Stimulants like amphetamines and methylphenidates, are the first drugs doctors will typically try in treating ADHD. These drugs work quickly to enhance focus and decrease impulsivity. They can also alleviate anxiety in certain individuals by increasing the levels of norepinephrine. The majority of stimulant medications are controlled substances and can lead to addiction and abuse. However, some adults find that they can take them with ease. They can induce insomnia in the beginning, which may be due to a rebound of ADHD symptoms once the medication wears off or a change in sleep patterns. This can be reduced by taking the medication only every day, instead of three or four times, and by establishing regular routines for sleeping.
Stimulants can trigger negative side effects like an abrupt increase in blood pressure, irregular heartbeats and changes in hearing or vision. They can also trigger weight loss and anorexia, particularly when taken in high doses. They can also increase mood instability in some people and trigger manic or psychotic symptoms to manifest. They are not recommended for people who suffer from bipolar disorders or severe anorexia. Stimulants can cause mood swings if they are abruptly stopped. In these instances, it is important to gradually reduce the dose.
People suffering from ADHD might be prescribed medication to treat anxiety. For instance antidepressants, such as SSRIs such Sertraline and Fluoxetine may help with ADHD-related anxiety as well as depression. These drugs are typically prescribed "off-label" for ADHD. Some doctors prescribe these medications for ADHD, but medical research doesn't support this usage.
Non-stimulant drugs for ADHD are more difficult to use however they can reduce the impulsivity of children and improve concentration. They do not affect the amount of norepinephrine that is present in the brain as much as stimulants, and they are less likely to trigger adhd medication rapid heart rate or agitation. This class of medications includes strattera (atomoxetine), Clonidine (Kapvay, Intuniv), and Guanfacine (Intuniv, Tenex).
A combination of strategies can be used to treat ADHD and anxiety, including behavior therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy and medication. The most effective treatment for anxiety and ADHD is a combination of medication and behavioral therapy.
For instance, cognitive-behavioral therapies helps teach skills that can help reduce a person's anxiety by incorporating techniques such as deep breathing, mindfulness meditation and calming techniques. In cases where children with ADHD have anxiety problems it is recommended to treat the ADHD before prescribing an SSRI. This will allow the child to focus better at school and experience less ADHD-related anxiety symptoms. To reap the maximum benefits, it is important to keep attending therapy sessions regularly. If necessary, a physician may suggest an additional psychiatric medication to treat anxiety. This could be a tricyclic such as Tofranil. If anxiety is not treated it could hinder the child's ability to participate in and benefit from therapy. It is important to determine the cause and the treatment correct the first time.