Medications For ADHD and Anxiety
Both ADHD and anxiety can be treated with medication. There are a variety of ADHD drugs that can help with anxiety symptoms, and vice versa.
Stimulants such as atomoxetine (Prozac) and bupropion (Wellbutrin) boost the supply of dopamine and norepinephrine, neurotransmitters which regulate mood and attention. Adults suffering from ADHD and anxiety are usually the first ones to be prescribed these medications.
Stimulants
Stimulants are among the most commonly used treatment for ADHD, and they can be effective at treating anxiety comorbidity as well. They have a rapid effect and increase the activity neurotransmitters rapidly in the brain. This improves attention, focus and control of impulses. Stimulants can also help reduce anxiety by reducing blood pressure and heart rate as well as increasing the levels of serotonin.
The most popular stimulant medications used to treat ADHD are methylphenidate (Ritalin) and amphetamines. These drugs are usually prescribed in a short-acting formulation and are required to be taken twice daily. However there are also longer-acting versions that last 8-12 hours. There are some who experience adverse reactions from these drugs such as a decrease in appetite, trouble sleeping and weight loss or hair growth. adhd without medication may also trigger headaches, tics, or irritation.
In certain instances stimulants can worsen anxiety symptoms. They should not be prescribed to people with anxiety or bipolar disorders. They are also addictive and have been linked with suicidal thoughts or attempts in adolescents. Doctors often prescribe a mix therapy and nonstimulant medications for ADHD and anxiety.
Your doctor will take into consideration your symptoms, their causes and the interaction between them when determining which treatment is most effective for anxiety or ADHD. They may also look at alternatives to treatment, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or lifestyle factors such as exercise and diet.
Non-stimulant drugs are typically preferred for treating coexisting ADHD and anxiety in adults, as they don't cause the same adverse effects as stimulants. Strattera (atomoxetine) and Qelbree (viloxazine) are two examples of non-stimulant drugs that are FDA-approved to treat ADHD and can help alleviate anxiety symptoms. These medications can improve mood regulation, impulse control and attention span by enhancing the brain neurotransmitter, norepinephrine. These drugs do not reduce appetite or cause jitters or shakiness which are typical adverse effects of stimulants.
Controlling anxiety and ADHD at the same time isn't easy but it's possible with the right support. The board-certified healthcare professionals on Klarity are experts in treating patients with these 2 common conditions and will give you the tools to conquer them. With Klarity you can make your first appointment online with a provider within 24 hours to receive an assessment and prescription, and pick up your medication at the pharmacy of your choice--all from the comfort of home. Discover how easy it is to start your ADHD and anxiety treatment.