Medication For ADHD and Anxiety
Stimulants such as methylphenidates, Adderall and dextroamphetamines are among the most frequently prescribed drugs for ADHD. adhd medications increase and regulate levels of brain chemicals.
These medications can trigger side-effects such as jitteriness or an increase in heart rate, which can exacerbate anxiety symptoms. These medications are not usually prescribed to those who suffer from both ADHD and anxiety.
Stimulants
The medicines used to treat ADHD may help alleviate anxiety among those suffering from the condition. But they're not a cure for the disorder, so it's important to follow through with therapy sessions or other methods of treatment in addition to taking your medication. If the side effects are severe or disrupt your daily routine, talk to your doctor about adjusting the dosage or experimenting with a different drug.
Common medications that doctors prescribe for ADHD include methylphenidate (Ritalin) and amphetamines (Adderall). These medications work by increasing the amount of chemicals present in the brain that play a role in paying attention to thoughts, organizing thoughts, and controlling impulses.
However, these medicines can also cause unwanted side effects, like jitteriness, increased heart rate, and nervousness. These symptoms may resemble symptoms of anxiety or exacerbate an anxiety disorder already present that's why doctors typically do not prescribe ADHD stimulant medications like mixed amphetamine salts and atomoxetine to people with a diagnosed anxiety disorder.
It is important to speak with your doctor about any restrictions you may have prior to beginning treatment. These medications can also cause adverse reactions when used with certain beverages and foods. Also, you should inform your doctor about any other supplements or over-the-counter drugs you're taking, and any medical conditions or lifestyle factors that might influence how the medication works.
It's not unusual for people to have a co-occurring disorder with ADHD. In fact, about half of people who suffer from ADHD have at least one anxiety disorder that is comorbid. The treatment of ADHD symptoms can help ease anxiety. Treatment of executive function issues that are associated with ADHD can ease stress related to time management and organizational skills, says Claire Streeter PMHNP, ARNP. She is a psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner at Charlie Health Psychiatric Mental Health Services.
A few of the most well-known medications for ADHD are also effective as anxiety medications such as methylphenidate or dextroamphetamine. These drugs increase the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain, which can increase concentration and control impulses. They also have a calming effect and can lower blood pressure and heart rate. These drugs are usually prescribed in long-acting or prolonged-release formulations, which build up over a longer time period. This helps reduce the peak of symptoms that happen as the medication wears away and prevents anxiety from increasing. Streeter explains that these medications are less likely to trigger an "rebound" effect that could make ADHD or anxiety symptoms worse once the medication has gone.