Medication For ADHD and Anxiety
Stimulants such as methylphenidates, Adderall and dextroamphetamines are some of the most common treatments for ADHD. These drugs balance brain chemicals and increase levels.
However, these drugs can cause side effects such as jitteriness and increased heart rate that can cause anxiety-related symptoms to worsen. These medications are not typically prescribed to those who suffer from both ADHD and anxiety.
Stimulants
The medications used to treat ADHD may help reduce anxiety among people with the condition. However, they are not a cure for the disorder, so it's important to follow through with therapy sessions or other methods of treatment in addition to taking your medication. If you or your child experiences adverse reactions that are severe or interfere with daily life consult your physician about adjusting the dose or experimenting with a different drug.
Commonly prescribed medications for ADHD include the methylphenidate (Ritalin) and amphetamines (Adderall). These drugs increase the availability of brain chemicals involved in paying attention, organizing thought, and controlling impulses.
However, these medicines can also cause unwanted side effects, like the feeling of jitteriness, heart rate increase and nervousness. These symptoms can mimic the symptoms of anxiety, or even worsen the symptoms of anxiety, which is why medical providers typically don't prescribe ADHD stimulant drugs like mixed amphetamine salts or atomoxetine to people with a diagnosed anxiety disorder.
These types of medications also can have adverse reactions with certain foods or beverages So it's essential to discuss these restrictions with your doctor prior starting treatment. Tell your doctor if you are taking any over-the-counter or supplements or if you have any medical conditions or lifestyle choices that could influence the effectiveness of your medication.
It's not uncommon for individuals to co-occur an anxiety disorder and ADHD. About half of people with ADHD also suffer from an anxiety disorder. The treatment of ADHD symptoms may help ease anxiety. Treating executive function problems associated with ADHD can help reduce anxiety associated with time management and organizational abilities, says Claire Streeter PMHNP, ARNP. concerta adhd medication is a psychiatrist and mental health nurse practitioner at Charlie Health Psychiatric Mental Health Services.
A few of the most frequently prescribed ADHD medications, such as dextroamphetamine, methylphenidate and others, are also effective for treating anxiety. These drugs increase the levels of norepinephrine as well as dopamine in the brain, which could enhance concentration and control of impulses. These drugs can also lower blood pressure and heart rates and also have a relaxing effect. They are typically prescribed in long-acting or extended-release formulations, which build over a longer period. This minimizes the peak and valleys of symptoms that happen as the medication wears off and prevents anxiety from worsening as the medicine is worn off. The medications are also less likely to cause the "rebound" effect which can make ADHD and anxiety symptoms worse after wear off, explains Streeter.