Medication For ADHD and Anxiety
The most frequently prescribed medication for ADHD is stimulants, like the methylphenidates (Ritalin) and dextroamphetamines (Adderall). These medications balance brain chemicals and boost levels of the brain.
However, these medications may cause side effects like increased heart rate and jitteriness that can cause anxiety-related symptoms to worsen. These medications aren't typically prescribed to people who have both ADHD and anxiety.
Stimulants
Medications used to treat ADHD can alleviate anxiety for people suffering from the condition. They aren't an effective treatment, and you should also continue to receive therapy or other treatments in addition to taking the medication. If you or your child experiences adverse reactions that are severe or interfere with daily life, talk to your doctor about adjusting the dose or trying a different drug.
Common medications that doctors prescribe for ADHD include methylphenidate (Ritalin) and amphetamines (Adderall). These medications boost the availability of brain chemicals involved in paying attention, organizing thought, and controlling impulses.
These medications can trigger unwanted side effects like an increase in heart rate and jitteriness. These symptoms can be similar to symptoms of anxiety or worsen anxiety disorders. This is the reason why medical professionals don't usually prescribe ADHD stimulant medication such as mixed amphetamine salts or atomoxetine to those with a diagnosed anxiety condition.
It is important to speak with your doctor about any restrictions you may have prior to beginning treatment. These medications can cause adverse reactions when used with certain foods and beverages. Also, you should inform your doctor about any other supplements or prescription medicines you're taking as well as any health issues or lifestyle factors that might affect the way your medication works.
It's not uncommon for individuals to have a co-occurring disorder such as anxiety and ADHD. In fact, around half of people who suffer from ADHD have at least one comorbid anxiety disorder. Controlling ADHD symptoms can help to ease anxiety, as treating the executive function problems of ADHD can ease stress related to the ability to organize and time management issues according to Claire Streeter, PMHNP, ARNP psychiatrist and mental health nurse practitioner working with Charlie Health Psychiatric Mental Health Services.
Some of the most commonly prescribed ADHD medication, like dextroamphetamine as well as methylphenidate are also effective in treating anxiety. These medications increase the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. adhd medications improves concentration and manage your impulses. They also provide a relaxing effect and can lower blood pressure and heart rate. They are typically prescribed in prolonged-release or long-acting formulations, which build over a longer period. This helps reduce the peak of symptoms that occur as the medication wears off and stops anxiety from growing. Streeter explains that these drugs are less likely to cause an "rebound" affect which can make ADHD or anxiety symptoms worse after the medication has gone.