Medication For ADHD and Anxiety
Stimulants, such as methylphenidates Adderall and dextroamphetamines are the most frequently prescribed medications for ADHD. These drugs balance brain chemicals and increase levels of the brain.
These medications can result in side effects like jitteriness or increased heart rate, which can exacerbate anxiety symptoms. This is why these medications are typically not prescribed for people who have co-existing anxiety and ADHD.
Stimulants
The medications used to treat ADHD can help reduce anxiety in people with the condition. They aren't a cure, so you must continue with therapy or other treatments in addition to taking the medication. If you or your child experience symptoms that are serious or disrupt your daily routine discuss with your doctor about adjusting the dose or trying a different drug.
Amphétamines (Adderall) and methylphenidate are among the most frequently prescribed medications by doctors for ADHD. These medications work by increasing the quantity of chemicals in the brain that play a role in paying attention, organizing thoughts and controlling impulses.
However, these medicines can also cause unwanted side effects, like jitteriness, increased heart rate and nervousness. These symptoms may resemble symptoms of anxiety or worsen the symptoms of anxiety disorders. This is why medical providers don't typically prescribe ADHD stimulant medications, such as mixed amphetamine salts, or atomoxetine, to people with a diagnosed anxiety disorder.
These kinds of medicines can have adverse reactions with certain beverages or foods It's crucial to discuss these restrictions with your doctor prior beginning treatment. It is also important to inform your doctor about any other supplements or over-the-counter medicines you're taking as well as any health conditions or lifestyle factors that may influence how the medication works.
It's not unusual for people to have a co-occurring anxiety disorder with ADHD. In fact, around half of all people with ADHD have at least one comorbid anxiety disorder. Controlling adhd medications for adults can help ease anxiety, as treating the executive function issues of ADHD can alleviate stress related to time management and organizational issues, says Claire Streeter, PMHNP, ARNP, a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner working with Charlie Health Psychiatric Mental Health Services.
Some of the most common medications for ADHD are also effective as an anxiety medication such as methylphenidate or dextroamphetamine. These drugs increase the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain, which improve concentration and control impulses. They also have a calming effect and can reduce blood pressure and heart rate. The majority of doctors prescribe long-acting or extended-release formulations of these medications that are absorbed into the bloodstream over a longer period of time. This decreases the frequency of symptoms that can occur as the medication wears away and prevents anxiety from increasing. The medications are also less likely to cause the "rebound" effect which can make ADHD and anxiety symptoms worse after wearing off, says Streeter.