Best ADHD Medication For Adults With Anxiety
Up to 50% of adults with ADHD also suffer from an anxiety disorder. Therapy and medication are effective treatments for both conditions.
Stimulants are effective in improving attention and focus. They work by keeping the receptors that are already "fired up" in your brain "turned-on". They can trigger tics, and also increase your heart rate.
Stimulants
Stimulants like amphetamines and methylphenidates, are the first medications doctors typically use to treat ADHD. These drugs are effective in helping increase concentration and decrease impulsivity. They can also reduce anxiety in certain people by increasing norepinephrine levels. Most stimulant drugs are controlled substances, and are prone to dependence and abuse. Some adults tolerate them well. Initial insomnia could be caused by the drug wearing off or a change in sleeping patterns. This can be minimized by taking the drug only every day, rather than three or four times, and also by developing regular sleep routines.
Possible side effects of stimulants could include a sudden rise in blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, and changes in vision or hearing. They also can cause weight loss or anorexia particularly when consumed in large doses. Additionally, stimulants can increase the likelihood of mood instability in certain people and cause psychotic or manic symptoms appear. They are not recommended for those with Tourette's disorder, bipolar disorder, or severe anorexia. The stimulants can trigger mood swings when suddenly stopped. In these situations it is essential to gradually decrease the dose.
People suffering from ADHD might be prescribed medication to treat anxiety. Antidepressants such Sertraline or Fluoxetine for instance can be helpful with depression and anxiety that are associated with ADHD. These drugs are typically prescribed "off-label" for ADHD. Some doctors prescribe them to treat ADHD, but this use is not supported by medical research.
Non-stimulant drugs for ADHD are more difficult to use however they can reduce the impulsivity of children and improve attention. They do not affect the level of norepinephrine in the brain as significantly as stimulants, and are less likely to trigger rapid heart rate or cause agitation. This class of drugs comprises strattera (atomoxetine), Clonidine (Kapvay, Intuniv), and Guanfacine (Intuniv, Tenex).
A variety of strategies can be employed to treat ADHD and anxiety, which includes behavior therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapies and medications. The most effective treatment for ADHD and anxiety is a combination of medication and behavioral therapy.
Cognitive-behavioral therapies, like help teach skills to reduce anxiety, including mindfulness, deep breathing, and calming techniques. In cases where children with ADHD suffer from anxiety issues it is recommended to treat the ADHD prior to prescribing an SSRI. This will help the child be more focused at school and experience less anxiety due to ADHD. To get the best results, it is important to take part in therapy sessions regularly. If needed, a doctor may recommend an additional psychiatric medication to combat the anxiety. This could be a tricyclic medication, like Tofranil. If medication for add adults is not treated, it can interfere with a child's ability to take part in therapy and benefit from it. This is why it is crucial to get the diagnosis and treatment right, the first time.