Best ADHD Medication For Adults With Anxiety

Anxiety disorders affect as much as 50% of adults who have ADHD. Therapy and medication are effective treatments for both conditions.

Stimulants can increase focus and concentration. They work by keeping 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 usually try in treating ADHD. These drugs are effective in helping improve concentration and reduce the risk of impulsivity. They can also reduce anxiety in some individuals by increasing over the counter adhd medication levels of norepinephrine. Most stimulant medications are controlled substances, and are prone to addiction and abuse. Some adults can tolerate them quite well. Initial insomnia may be caused by the medication wearing off or a change in sleeping patterns. This can be reduced by taking the drug only once per day, instead of three or four times, and by creating regular sleep routines.

Potential side effects from stimulants can include a sudden rise in blood pressure, an irregular heartbeat, or changes in vision or hearing. They also can cause weight loss or anorexia, especially when they are consumed in large doses. In addition, stimulants may increase the likelihood of mood instability in certain people and make manic or psychotic symptoms manifest. They are not recommended for people with Tourette's disorder, bipolar disorder or severe anorexia. The mood swings can also occur when stimulants suddenly removed. In these instances it is crucial to gradually reduction in the dosage.

People with ADHD may be prescribed medications to treat anxiety. Antidepressants like Sertraline or Fluoxetine for instance, can help with anxiety and depression related to ADHD. These drugs are typically prescribed "off-label", for ADHD. Some doctors prescribe them to treat ADHD however, this usage is not supported by research in medical science.

Non-stimulant drugs for ADHD are more difficult to use but they can aid in reducing the impulsivity of children and improve focus. They are less likely than stimulants to trigger anxiety or a rapid heart rate, as they do not increase the levels of norepinephrine in the brain. This class of drugs includes strattera (atomoxetine) and Clonidine (Kapvay, Intuniv), and Guanfacine (Intuniv, Tenex).

A variety of strategies can be used to treat ADHD and anxiety, which includes behavior therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapies and medication. Research has proven that the most effective treatment is a combination of medication and behavioral therapy.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy, for instance, teach skills that reduce anxiety, like deep breathing, mindfulness, and calming techniques. Some children with ADHD also suffer from anxiety. In these instances, the most effective strategy is to treat the ADHD first, and then prescribe an SSRI for anxiety. This will allow the child to focus better at school and experience less anxiety that is related to ADHD. It is essential to regularly attend therapy sessions to reap the maximum benefit. A doctor may prescribe an additional psychiatric drug to treat anxiety, if needed. It could be a tricyclic, such as Tofranil. If anxiety is not addressed, it may hinder the ability of a child to benefit from therapy. It is crucial to establish the correct diagnosis and the treatment right the first time.