Medication For ADHD and Anxiety
The most commonly prescribed medication for ADHD is stimulants like methylphenidates (Ritalin) and dextroamphetamines (Adderall). These medications balance brain chemicals and boost levels.
However, these drugs can cause side effects like anxiety and jitteriness that can cause anxiety-related symptoms to worsen. Therefore, these medications are usually not recommended for those who suffer from anxiety or ADHD.
Stimulants
The medicines used to treat ADHD may help reduce anxiety among people with the condition. They aren't a cure, so you should keep pursuing treatment or other methods in addition to taking the medication. If you or your child experiences adverse reactions that are severe or disrupt your daily routine consult your physician about adjusting the dose or trying a different drug.
Common medications that doctors prescribe for ADHD include methylphenidate (Ritalin) and amphetamines (Adderall). 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 undesired side effects, including anxiety, jitteriness, an increase in heart rate, and anxiety. These symptoms may mimic symptoms of anxiety or worsen the symptoms of anxiety and that's the reason medical providers typically don't prescribe ADHD stimulant medications such as mixed amphetamine salts or atomoxetine for those suffering from an anxiety disorder.
It is important to speak with your doctor about any restrictions you have before starting treatment. These medications may also cause adverse reactions when used with certain beverages and foods. Inform your doctor if are taking any over-the-counter or supplements or if you have any health conditions or lifestyle choices that could impact the effectiveness of the medication.
It's not uncommon for people to have a co-occurring anxiety disorder that is accompanied by ADHD. About half of people who suffer from ADHD also have an anxiety disorder. Managing ADHD symptoms can help reduce anxiety, since treating the executive function issues of ADHD can ease stress related to time management and organizational issues, says Claire Streeter, PMHNP, ARNP psychiatrist and mental health nurse practitioner with Charlie Health Psychiatric Mental Health Services.
The most popular drugs for ADHD are also effective as anxiety medication such as methylphenidate or dextroamphetamine. These drugs increase the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain, which increase concentration and control impulses. They also have a calming effect and may lower blood pressure and heart rate. These drugs are usually prescribed in long-acting or extended-release formulations, which build up over a longer time period. This decreases the frequency of symptoms that can occur as the medication wears away and stops anxiety from growing. adhd medication 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.