Best ADHD Medication For Adults With Anxiety
Up to 50% of people who suffer from ADHD also suffer from anxiety disorders. Treatment approaches for managing both conditions include medication and therapy.
Stimulants can improve focus and attention. They work by keeping the receptors that are already "fired up" in your brain "turned-on". They may cause tics, and increase your heart rate.
Stimulants
When treating ADHD the doctors usually begin with stimulants such as methylphenidates or amphetamines. They work quickly to improve focus and reduce the amount of impulsivity. They can also reduce anxiety in some people by boosting norepinephrine levels. The majority of stimulant drugs are controlled substances, which means they are prone to abuse and addiction. However some adults have found that they can tolerate them well. Initial insomnia may be caused by the medication wearing off or a change in sleeping patterns. This can be lowered by taking the medication once a day, instead of three or four times, and by establishing regular routines for sleeping.
Potential side effects from stimulants can include a sudden rise in blood pressure, an irregular heartbeat and changes in hearing or vision. They can also trigger anorexia and weight loss especially when taken in large doses. In addition, stimulants can increase the likelihood of mood instability in certain people and cause manic or psychotic symptoms manifest. They are contraindicated in people who suffer from bipolar disorder or severe anorexia. Stimulants can cause mood swings when abruptly stopped. In these cases it is essential to slowly reduction in the dose.
People suffering from ADHD may be prescribed medications to treat anxiety. For instance, antidepressants such as SSRIs such as Sertraline and Fluoxetine can help with ADHD-related anxiety, as well as depression. These medications are typically prescribed "off-label" for ADHD. Some doctors prescribe these medications to treat ADHD however this practice is not supported by research in medical science.
Non-stimulant ADHD medications take longer to act however they can help reduce impulsivity and increase concentration. They are less likely than stimulants to trigger an increase in heart rate or agitation, as they do not increase the amount of norepinephrine in the brain. The medications that fall under this class of drugs include strattera (atomoxetine) and Clonidine (Kapvay and Intuniv) and Guanfacine E.R. (Intuniv and Tenex).
A variety of strategies can be used to manage ADHD and anxiety, which includes behavior therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapies and medication. Research has shown that the most effective treatment is the combination of medication and behavioral therapy.
Cognitive-behavioral therapies, for example help teach skills to reduce anxiety, including deep breathing, mindfulness, and calming techniques. Certain children with ADHD also suffer from anxiety. In these instances, the best approach is to treat the ADHD first, and then prescribe an SSRI for anxiety. This will enable the child to focus better in school more info and suffer less anxiety-related symptoms related to ADHD. To reap the maximum benefits, it is important to take part in therapy sessions regularly. A doctor may prescribe an additional psychiatric drug to treat anxiety if necessary. This may be a tricyclic antidepressant, like Tofranil. If anxiety isn't addressed, it could affect a child's capacity to take part in therapy and benefit from it. It is important to get the diagnosis right and the correct treatment the first time.