Best ADHD Medication For Adults With Anxiety
Anxiety disorders affect up to 50 percent of adults with ADHD. Treatment approaches for managing both conditions include medication and therapy.
Stimulants can increase concentration and focus. They work by keeping already activated brain receptors "turned on" or "fired up." They are often associated with the tics of your brain and can increase your heart rate slightly.
Stimulants
Stimulants, like methylphenidates and amphetamines, are the first medication doctors usually try when treating ADHD. They work quickly to increase concentration and decrease the risk of impulsivity. Some people can reduce anxiety by boosting the level of norepinephrine. Most stimulant medicines are controlled substances and therefore carry a risk of abuse and addiction. Some adults tolerate them well. Initial insomnia could be caused by the drug wearing off or a change in sleeping patterns. This can be lowered by taking the medication only one time per day instead of three or four times a week, and by creating regular sleeping patterns.
Possible side effects of stimulants can include a sudden rise in blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, and changes in hearing or vision. They also can cause anorexia or weight loss, particularly when consumed in large doses. In addition, stimulants can worsen mood lability in some individuals and cause manic or psychotic symptoms manifest. They are not recommended for people with Tourette’s disorder, bipolar disorders or severe anorexia. The stimulants can trigger mood swings when abruptly stopped. In these situations it is crucial that you gradually reduce the dosage.
Treatments for anxiety that aren't related to ADHD may be used for those suffering from the disorder. For instance antidepressants like SSRIs like Sertraline and Fluoxetine may aid in the treatment of anxiety related to ADHD as well as depression. These drugs are typically prescribed "off-label" for ADHD. Some doctors prescribe these medications to treat ADHD, but medical research does not support this use.
Non-stimulant drugs for ADHD are more difficult to use but they can aid in reducing the tendency to be impulsive and increase attention. They are less likely than stimulants to trigger an increase in heart rate or agitation, as they don't increase the amount of norepinephrine that is present in the brain. This class of drugs comprises strattera (atomoxetine) and Clonidine (Kapvay, Intuniv), and Guanfacine (Intuniv, website Tenex).
Combinations of strategies, including behavioral therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and medication, are a viable option to treat ADHD and anxiety. The most effective treatment for anxiety and ADHD is a combination of medication and behavioral therapy.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy, for instance teach techniques to reduce anxiety, including mindfulness, deep breathing, and calming techniques. Certain children with ADHD also suffer from anxiety, and in those instances, the best approach is to treat the ADHD first, then prescribe an SSRI for anxiety. This will allow the child to concentrate better at school and will experience less anxiety related to ADHD. To reap the maximum benefits, it is important to attend therapy sessions regularly. If necessary, a physician may suggest an additional psychiatric medication to combat anxiety. This could be a tricyclic antidepressant, such as Tofranil. If the anxiety is not treated, it can interfere with a child's ability to take part in therapy and gain benefits from it. This is why it's crucial to get the diagnosis and treatment right the first time.