Medication For ADHD and Anxiety
Stimulants like methylphenidates, Adderall and dextroamphetamines are the most common drugs for ADHD. These medications balance brain chemicals and increase levels.
These medications can cause side-effects such as jitteriness or an increase in heart rate, which could exacerbate anxiety symptoms. So, these medications are usually not prescribed for people who have co-existing anxiety and ADHD.
Stimulants
Medications used to treat ADHD can reduce anxiety in people with the condition. But they're not a cure for the disorder, so it is essential to continue with therapy sessions or other treatments in addition to taking your medication. If side effects are severe or interfere in your daily life, speak with your physician about adjusting the dosage or experimenting with a different drug.
Common medications prescribed by doctors for ADHD include the methylphenidate (Ritalin) and amphetamines (Adderall). These medications boost the availability of brain chemicals involved with paying attention, organizing thought and controlling impulses.
These medicines can cause unwanted adverse effects, such as jitteriness and increased heart rate. These symptoms can mimic the symptoms of anxiety or exacerbate an anxiety disorder already present, which is why medical providers typically don't prescribe ADHD stimulant medications such as mixed amphetamine salts or atomoxetine for patients with a diagnosed anxiety disorder.
It's crucial to speak with your doctor regarding any restrictions you may have before starting treatment. These medications may also cause adverse reactions when used with certain foods and beverages. You also should tell your doctor about any other supplements or over-the-counter medicines you're taking as well as any health issues or lifestyle factors that could affect the way your medication performs.
It's not unusual for people to suffer from both anxiety disorders and ADHD. About half of people who suffer from ADHD also have an anxiety disorder. Managing ADHD symptoms can help to ease anxiety, as treating the executive function problems of ADHD can reduce stress due to the ability to organize and time management issues, says Claire Streeter, PMHNP, ARNP 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 medications increase the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. This improves concentration and reduce your impulses. They also have a calming effect and can reduce blood pressure and heart rate. They are typically prescribed in long-acting or prolonged-release formulations, which are able to build over a longer period. This reduces the peaks of symptoms that occur as the medication wears away and stops anxiety from growing. adhd treatment medication are also less likely to trigger the "rebound" effect that can cause ADHD and anxiety symptoms worse after wear off, explains Streeter.