Medication For ADHD and Anxiety
Stimulants, such as methylphenidates Adderall and dextroamphetamines are some of the most frequently prescribed drugs for ADHD. These drugs increase and balance levels of brain chemicals.
These medications can cause side-effects like jitteriness or increased heart rate, which may exacerbate anxiety symptoms. Therefore, these medications are typically not recommended for patients who have co-existing anxiety and ADHD.
Stimulants
adhd medications for adults used to treat ADHD can reduce anxiety among people suffering from the condition. They are not an answer to the problem, so you should also continue to receive treatment or other methods in addition to taking the medication. If the side effects are severe or affect your daily routine, talk with your doctor about changing your dosage or trying another drug.
Amphétamines (Adderall) and methylphenidate are two of the most frequently prescribed medications by doctors for ADHD. These medications work by increasing the amount of chemicals present in the brain involved in focusing, organizing thoughts, and controlling impulses.
However, these medications can cause unwanted side effects, like anxiety, jitteriness, an increase in heart rate and nervousness. These symptoms may resemble symptoms of anxiety or worsen an anxiety disorder. This is the reason medical professionals don't usually prescribe ADHD stimulant drugs like mixed amphetamine salts, or atomoxetine to those with a diagnosed anxiety condition.
These types of medications could cause adverse reactions when combined with certain foods or beverages So it's essential to discuss these restrictions with your doctor before starting treatment. Tell your doctor if you are taking any prescription or supplements or if you have any medical conditions or lifestyle choices that could impact the effectiveness of the medication.
It's not unusual for people to suffer from a co-occurring anxiety disorder along with ADHD. In fact, approximately half of those with ADHD have at least one comorbid anxiety disorder. The treatment of ADHD symptoms can help ease anxiety. Treating executive function problems that are associated with ADHD can reduce stress associated with time management and organizational abilities, says Claire Streeter PMHNP, ARNP. She is a psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner at Charlie Health Psychiatric Mental Health Services.
Some of the most commonly prescribed ADHD medications, such as dextroamphetamine, methylphenidate and others, are also effective in treating anxiety. These drugs work by boosting the levels of norepinephrine as well as dopamine in the brain, which could increase concentration and control impulses. They also provide a relaxing effect and can lower blood pressure and heart rate. These drugs are usually prescribed in long-acting or extended-release formulations, which are able to build up over a longer time period. This helps reduce the peak of symptoms that occur when the medication wears off and prevents anxiety from increasing. The medications are also less likely to trigger the "rebound" effect which can cause ADHD and anxiety symptoms worse after they've worn off, says Streeter.