Medication For ADHD and Anxiety
The most frequently prescribed medication for ADHD is stimulants like methylphenidates (Ritalin) and dextroamphetamines (Adderall). These medications increase and balance levels of brain chemicals.
However, these drugs can cause adverse effects such as increased heart rate and jitteriness that may exacerbate anxiety symptoms. So, these medications are usually not recommended for those who have co-existing anxiety and ADHD.
Stimulants
The medicines used to treat ADHD can reduce anxiety in people suffering from the condition. They're not an answer to the problem, so you must keep pursuing therapy or other treatments in addition to taking the medication. If you or your child experiences adverse reactions that are severe or affect your daily life consult your physician about adjusting the dose or experimenting with a different medication.
Amphétamines (Adderall) and methylphenidate are two of most frequently prescribed medications by doctors for ADHD. These drugs work by increasing the amount of chemicals present in the brain that are involved in focusing to thoughts, organizing thoughts and controlling impulses.
These medications can trigger unwanted adverse effects, such as an increase in heart rate and jitteriness. These symptoms can mimic anxiety symptoms or exacerbate anxiety disorders. This is the reason why medical providers don't typically prescribe ADHD stimulant drugs like mixed amphetamine salts, or atomoxetine to those who have a diagnosed anxiety condition.
These types of medications also can have adverse reactions with certain foods or beverages, so it's important to discuss these restrictions with your doctor before beginning treatment. Tell your doctor if you are taking any prescription or supplements and if you suffer from any health conditions or lifestyle choices that may influence the effectiveness of your medication.
It's not uncommon for people to have a co-occurring disorder such as anxiety and ADHD. In fact, around half of people who suffer from ADHD have at least one comorbid anxiety disorder. The treatment of ADHD symptoms can help ease anxiety. The treatment of executive function issues that are associated with ADHD can ease stress associated with time management and organizational skills, says Claire Streeter PMHNP, ARNP. She is a psychiatrist and mental health nurse practitioner at Charlie Health Psychiatric Mental Health Services.
Some of the most commonly prescribed ADHD medication, like dextroamphetamine and methylphenidate, are also effective anxiety medications. These drugs work by increasing the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. This can help improve your concentration and manage your impulses. These medications can also lower blood pressure and heart rates and have a calming affect. Most doctors prescribe long-acting or extended-release formulations of these medications that build up in the bloodstream over a longer period of time. This reduces the peaks of symptoms that happen as the medication wears off and stops anxiety from increasing. adhd and anxiety medication explains that these medications are less likely to cause an "rebound" effect which could make ADHD or anxiety symptoms worse after the medication has worn off.