Best ADHD Medication For Adults With Anxiety
As high as 50% of people with ADHD also suffer from anxiety disorders. Both medication and therapy are effective treatments for both disorders.
Stimulants are effective in improving attention and focus. They work by keeping the receptors that are already "fired up" in your brain "turned-on". They may trigger tics, and also increase your heart rate.
Stimulants
When treating ADHD doctors typically begin with stimulants like methylphenidates or amphetamines. These drugs act quickly to enhance concentration and reduce the amount of impulsivity. Certain people can reduce anxiety by increasing the level of norepinephrine. The majority of stimulant medications are controlled substances and are prone to dependence and abuse. Some adults are tolerant of them. They can cause insomnia at first which could result from a rebound of ADHD symptoms when the medication has worn off or an alteration in sleep patterns. This can be reduced by taking the medication one time per day instead of taking it three or more times a week, and by creating an established sleeping routine.
Stimulants can trigger side effects such as a sudden rise in blood pressure, irregular heartbeats, and changes in hearing or vision. They can also cause weight loss and anorexia, particularly when taken in high doses. Additionally, stimulants can increase the likelihood of mood instability in certain people and make manic or psychotic symptoms appear. They are not recommended for those suffering from bipolar disorders, or severe anorexia. Stimulants can cause mood swings when suddenly stopped. In these situations it is crucial to gradually decrease in the dosage.
The use of medications to treat anxiety that are not related to ADHD could be used to treat those suffering from the disorder. For instance, antidepressants such as SSRIs such Sertraline and Fluoxetine may aid in the treatment of anxiety related to ADHD and depression. These medications are usually prescribed "off-label", for ADHD. Some doctors prescribe these medications to treat ADHD however, research in the field does not support this practice.
Non-stimulant ADHD medicines are slower to act however they can help reduce the impulsivity of children and improve attention. They are less likely than stimulants to cause an increase in heart rate or agitation since they do not increase the levels of norepinephrine that is present in the brain. This class of drugs includes strattera (atomoxetine), Clonidine (Kapvay, Intuniv), and Guanfacine (Intuniv, Tenex).
Combinations of strategies, such as cognitive-behavioral treatment, behavior therapy, and medications, can be employed to treat ADHD and anxiety. The most effective treatment for ADHD and anxiety is a combination of medication and behavioral therapy.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy, for instance teach techniques to reduce anxiety, such as mindfulness, deep breathing, and calming techniques. Some children with ADHD also have problems with anxiety. In those cases, the best strategy is to treat the ADHD first, then to prescribe an SSRI for anxiety. This will allow the child to concentrate better at school and suffer less anxiety due to ADHD. It is crucial to attend regularly therapy sessions to reap the maximum benefit. A doctor might prescribe an additional psychiatric drug to treat anxiety if necessary. adhd treatment without medication could be a tricyclic like Tofranil. If anxiety is not treated it can interfere with the child's ability to take part in and benefit from therapy. It is crucial to determine the cause and the correct treatment the first time.