Ten Common Misconceptions About Medication For ADHD And Anxiety That Aren't Always True
Medications For ADHD and Anxiety
The use of medications is an essential part of treatment for both ADHD and anxiety. There are many ADHD drugs that also alleviate anxiety symptoms and vice the reverse.
Stimulants, such as atomoxetine or bupropion (Wellbutrin) can increase the amount of dopamine and norepinephrine neurotransmitters that regulate mood and attention. They are usually prescribed for adults with ADHD and comorbid anxiety.
Stimulants
Stimulants are among the most commonly prescribed medication for ADHD, and they can be effective at treating anxiety comorbidity as well. They help to speed up the activity of neurotransmitters in the brain, thereby helping to improve attention, focus and impulse control. Additionally, stimulants can reduce anxiety by lowering heart rate and blood pressure and increasing serotonin levels.
Amphetamines as well as methylphenidate are the most frequently prescribed stimulant drugs to treat ADHD. They are typically prescribed in the short-acting form and must be taken 2-3 times a day. However, there are also long-acting versions of these drugs that last between 8 and 12 hours and are taken only once per day. These medications can trigger adverse effects, including weight loss as well as sleeplessness or a loss of appetite. They can also cause headaches, tics, and irritation.
In some cases stimulants can worsen anxiety symptoms. They should not be prescribed to those suffering from anxiety or bipolar disorders. They can also be addictive and have been associated with suicidal thoughts and attempts in adolescents. Doctors often prescribe a mix therapy and non-stimulant medication to treat ADHD and anxiety.
Your doctor will take into account your symptoms, their causes, and the interactions between them when determining which treatment is the best for you. adhd sleep medication is the same for anxiety or ADHD. They may also look at alternative treatment options like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or lifestyle factors such as exercise and diet.
Non-stimulant medications that don't have the same negative side effects as stimulants, are typically used to treat ADHD and anxiety in adults. Strattera (atomoxetine) and Qelbree, (viloxazine), are FDA-approved non-stimulant medications to treat ADHD. They also reduce anxiety symptoms. These drugs increase levels of the brain neurotransmitter, norepinephrine and can improve the ability to control impulses as well as attention span and mood regulation. These drugs do not suppress appetite, nor cause jitters or shakiness.
It can be challenging to manage anxiety and ADHD simultaneously however with the right support, it is possible. The health professionals who are board-certified on Klarity have years of experience treating patients suffering from these two conditions and can provide you with the tools to overcome them. You can get your first appointment online within 24 hours with a healthcare professional, receive an assessment and prescription, and pick up the medication at the pharmacy of your choice, all from the comfort of your home. Find out how simple it is to start with ADHD and anxiety treatment today!