Medications For ADHD and Anxiety
Medications can be an important component of treatment for both ADHD and anxiety. There are a variety of ADHD drugs that can also help with anxiety symptoms.
uk adhd medication like atomoxetine and bupropion (Wellbutrin), increase the amount of dopamine and norepinephrine neurotransmitters that regulate mood as well as attention. They're typically prescribed first to adults with ADHD and comorbid anxiety.
Stimulants
Stimulants are used to treat anxiety disorders that are comorbid and ADHD. They are fast-acting and can be effective in boosting the activity of neurotransmitters in the brain, thereby helping to improve attention, focus and impulse control. They can also reduce anxiety, by reducing blood pressure and heart rate and increasing 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 must be taken twice every day. However there are long-acting ones that last for 8-12 hours. These drugs can cause adverse reactions, such as a change in weight, difficulty sleeping or a loss of appetite. These medications can also trigger headaches and tics.
In some cases stimulants can increase anxiety symptoms. They aren't recommended for people who have an anxiety history or bipolar disorder. They are also addictive and have been linked with suicidal thoughts or attempts in adolescents. Doctors often prescribe a combination therapy and nonstimulant medication for ADHD and anxiety.
When you are trying to determine the most effective medication for anxiety and ADHD, your doctor will take into consideration your specific symptoms, what's causing them and how they interact with each other. They will also consider alternative treatment options like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or lifestyle factors like exercise and diet.
Non-stimulant drugs that don't have the same side-effects as stimulants, are typically used to treat ADHD and anxiety in adults. Strattera (atomoxetine) and Qelbree, (viloxazine), are FDA-approved non-stimulant medications for treating ADHD. They can also relieve anxiety symptoms. These medications can help improve mood regulation, impulse control and attention span by enhancing the brain neurotransmitter, norepinephrine. These drugs do not reduce appetite, nor do they cause jitters or shakiness.
Managing anxiety and ADHD at the same time isn't easy, but it is possible with the right support. The board-certified health professionals on Klarity are experienced in treating patients suffering from these two common ailments and will provide you with the necessary tools to conquer these challenges. You can get your first virtual appointment within 24 hours with a doctor, receive an appointment and prescription, and then pick up the medication at the pharmacy you choose in the comfort of your home. Find out how easy it is to begin your ADHD and anxiety treatment.