ADHD Anxiety Medication
Anxiety disorders are common among people with ADHD. Both conditions are often co-occurring and can make treatment more difficult.
Anxiety disorders can be characterized by nervousness and worry. Unlike ADHD, which is characterized by impulsivity and inattention. People who suffer from comorbid anxiety and ADHD can benefit from cognitive-behavioral treatment methods to treat symptoms.
Non-stimulant medications
Adults with ADHD are usually treated with stimulant medication first but this isn't the only option. Non-stimulant medication can also help alleviate anxiety symptoms. These ADHD medications don't boost dopamine or norepinephrine neurotransmitters in the brain as stimulant drugs do, however they can still improve focus and reduce hyperactivity and impulsiveness. In certain instances, a combination of stimulant and non-stimulant drugs is recommended for people with comorbid ADHD and anxiety.
The medications for ADHD that can help combat comorbid anxiety disorders usually fall into two classes which are alpha agonists and antidepressants. Clonidine (Catapres, Kapvay) and Guanfacine (Tenex, Intuniv) are the most frequently prescribed alpha agonists to treat ADHD. The drugs were initially developed to treat high blood pressure, they've since been classified into a category of medications called norepinephrine receptor antagonists or alpha-2-adrenergic antagonists. These medications inhibit norepinephrine reuptake in the brain, which aids in reducing ADHD symptoms such as anxiety, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.
Strattera (atomoxetine) is the most well-known and effective nonstimulant medication to treat adult ADHD, is available as an oral capsule. It is available in capsules for oral use and can be taken with or without food. It is generally well tolerated by children and adults however, it may cause adverse effects in some people. This includes a the loss of appetite, difficulty sleeping and shaking. To reduce the risk of these side effects, a doctor may recommend lowering the dosage or taking it earlier in the daytime. They may also recommend avoiding caffeinated drinks or supplements in the evening.
Tricyclic antidepressants, which are an older class of depression medications, can be effective for people with both ADHD and anxiety. Doctors typically prescribe these medications as a last option to reduce the risk of serious negative side effects. SSRIs include drugs like fluoxetine (Prozac) and sertraline and Sarafem (Zoloft). does adhd medication work 're not as effective as the stimulants, but they can be very beneficial for people with anxiety disorders that are comorbid and ADHD.
There are a myriad of solutions to treat ADHD with anxiety comorbidity. However, it can take time to determine the most effective dosage and medication. The reaction of a person to medication varies from one individual to the next, and it can take several attempts to find the best treatment. It's important to always keep an open line of communication with a healthcare professional and be open about how the medication affects you or your child.
In addition to medications and other medications, there are a range of self-help strategies to help manage anxiety and ADHD symptoms. These techniques can be as simple as ensuring regular sleep patterns and eating a balanced diet and implementing relaxation methods. They can also include learning how to live a life, for example, improving efficiency and prioritizing tasks. In some instances therapy may be a useful treatment for ADHD and anxiety. BetterHelp can connect you with licensed therapists who can teach you new coping techniques and help you overcome feelings such as anxiety and stress. Start the assessment today to be connected with a licensed therapist in 48 hours. It's free, confidential and completely anonymous.