Medications For ADHD and Anxiety
Both ADHD and anxiety can be treated with medications. There are many ADHD drugs that can also alleviate anxiety symptoms.
Stimulants such as atomoxetine and bupropion (Wellbutrin) boost the availability dopamine and norepinephrine neurotransmitters which regulate mood and attention. They are usually prescribed for adults suffering from ADHD and comorbid anxiety.
Stimulants
Stimulants can be used to treat anxiety disorders that are comorbid and ADHD. They are fast acting and increase the activity neurotransmitters rapidly in the brain. This helps improve concentration, focus and impulse control. The stimulants can also reduce anxiety, by lowering blood-pressure and heart rate and increasing levels of serotonin.
Amphetamines and methylphenidate are the most frequently prescribed stimulant drugs to treat ADHD. They are typically prescribed in the short-acting type and are required to be taken 3 times per day, however there are also long-acting forms of these drugs that last between 8 and 12 hours and are taken once each day. Certain people experience side effects from these medications, including a loss of appetite, insomnia and changes in weight or hair growth. These medications can also trigger tics and headaches.
In some instances stimulants can worsen anxiety symptoms. They should not be prescribed for people suffering from anxiety or bipolar disorders. They are also addictive and have been linked with suicidal thoughts or attempts by adolescents. In adhd medication names , doctors prescribe therapy in combination with non-stimulant drugs to treat ADHD and anxiety.
When you are trying to determine the best medication for anxiety and ADHD your doctor will take into consideration your specific symptoms, the causes of them, and how they interact with each other. They will also consider alternative treatment options like 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 medicines that are FDA-approved to treat ADHD and can reduce anxiety symptoms. These medications can improve mood regulation, impulse control, and attention span by enhancing the brain neurotransmitter, norepinephrine. These medications do NOT reduce appetite, nor do they cause jitters or shaking.
Controlling anxiety and ADHD at the same time isn't easy, but it is possible with the right support. The board-certified healthcare professionals on Klarity are skilled in treating patients suffering from these two common ailments and can provide you with the necessary tools to overcome these challenges. With Klarity, you can have your first appointment online with a healthcare professional within 24 hours to receive an assessment and prescription, and then pick up your medication at the pharmacy of your choice--all from the comfort of your home. Find out how easy it is to start with ADHD and anxiety treatment today!