ADHD Anxiety Medication
Anxiety disorders are common among those who suffer from ADHD. It's common for these two conditions to co-occur and can cause problems with diagnosis and treatment.
Anxiety disorders are characterized by fear, nervousness, and worry. In contrast to ADHD that is defined by impulsivity and inattention. People who suffer from comorbid anxiety and ADHD can benefit from cognitive-behavioral treatment methods to treat symptoms.
Non-stimulant medicines
Adults suffering from ADHD tend to be treated first with stimulant drugs but this isn't the only option. Non-stimulant medications can also aid in relieving anxiety symptoms. These ADHD medications don't boost the dopamine and norepinephrine neuronal activity in the brain like stimulant medications do. However, they can still improve concentration and decrease the impulsivity and hyperactivity. In certain cases it is recommended to combine stimulant and non-stimulant medications is recommended for those suffering from co-occurring ADHD and anxiety.
Treatments for ADHD that can help treat comorbid anxiety disorders typically fall into two broad classes which are alpha agonists and antidepressants. Clonidine (Catapres and Kapvay) as well as Guanfacine (Tenex and Intuniv) are the two most frequently prescribed alpha-agonists to treat ADHD. Originally developed to treat dealing with adhd without medication -blood pressure, they have now been classified as a class of medication known as norepinephrine receptor agonists or alpha-2-adrenergic antagonists. These drugs block the reuptake of norepinephrine in the brain which helps to reduce ADHD symptoms like anxiety, hyperactivity and impulsivity.
Strattera (atomoxetine), the most popular and efficient non-stimulant medication for treating adult ADHD is available as an oral capsule. It is available as an oral capsule and can be taken either with or without food. It is generally well tolerated by children and adults however, it may cause adverse reactions in certain people. These include shaking, difficulty sleeping, and loss of appetite. A doctor may suggest lowering the dosage or taking the medication earlier in the morning to reduce the effects. They might also suggest avoid drinking caffeine-rich drinks or supplements in the evening.
Tricyclic antidepressants are an old class depression medication that can be effective in treating ADHD and anxiety. Doctors typically prescribe these medications as a last resort to limit the chance of serious negative side negative effects. These include medications such as fluoxetine (Prozac) and sertraline and Sarafem (Zoloft). They don't work quite as quickly as stimulants but can be very useful for those with comorbid ADHD and anxiety.
There are many different options for treating ADHD and comorbid anxiety however it takes time to determine the appropriate dosages and medications. It may take a few times to find the right medication for you. Every person reacts differently to medication. It's important to always keep an open line of communication with a health care provider and be honest about how the medication affects your child or yourself.
In addition to medications, there are a variety of self-help strategies that can help manage anxiety and ADHD symptoms. These techniques can include simple things like ensuring regular sleeping patterns, eating a nourishing diet and implementing relaxation techniques. These strategies can also include life skills like learning how to prioritize and manage tasks. In certain instances therapy is an effective treatment for ADHD and anxiety. BetterHelp matches you with licensed therapists who will help you or your child learn new strategies for coping and help you manage stress and anxiety. Start the assessment today to be matched with a licensed therapist within 48 hours. It's completely free, confidential, and completely anonymous.