adult adhd medication For Adults With Anxiety
Anxiety disorders affect as much as 50 percent of the adults who suffer from ADHD. Treatment approaches for managing both conditions include medication and therapy.
Stimulants can increase focus and attention. They work by keeping the receptors that are already "fired up" in your brain "turned-on". They may cause tics, and increase your heart rate.
Stimulants
Stimulants, such as methylphenidates and amphetamines, are the first medications doctors usually try in treating ADHD. They work quickly to improve focus and decrease impulsivity. They can also alleviate anxiety in certain people by boosting norepinephrine levels. Most stimulant drugs are controlled substances, and are prone to dependence and abuse. However, some adults find that they are able to take them without issue. They can induce insomnia in the beginning that could be due to a rebound of ADHD symptoms once the medication has worn off or due to changes in the pattern of sleep. This can be minimized by taking the drug only once per day, rather than three or four times, and by creating regular sleep routines.
Potential side effects from stimulants can include a sudden rise in blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, or changes in hearing or vision. They can also cause anorexia and weight loss particularly when taken in high doses. Additionally, stimulants can increase the likelihood of mood instability in certain people and cause manic or psychotic symptoms appear. They are not recommended for people with Tourette’s disorder, bipolar disorders or severe anorexia. Mood swings can also occur when stimulants suddenly removed. In these instances, it is important to gradually decrease the dose.
People with ADHD might be prescribed medication to help treat anxiety. For instance antidepressants like SSRIs such as Sertraline and Fluoxetine can aid in the treatment of anxiety related to ADHD, as well as depression. These medicines are usually prescribed "off-label" for ADHD. Some doctors prescribe them for ADHD however, research in the field does not support this use.
Non-stimulant medicines for ADHD are slower to take effect, but can help reduce the impulsivity of children and improve attention. They do not affect the amount of norepinephrine that is present in the brain as much as stimulants, and are less likely to trigger a rapid heart rate or agitation. This class of medications includes strattera (atomoxetine) and Clonidine (Kapvay, Intuniv), and Guanfacine (Intuniv, Tenex).
Combinations of strategies, including the use of cognitive-behavioral treatments, behavior therapy, and medications can be employed to treat ADHD and anxiety. Research has shown that the most effective treatment is a combination of medication and behavioral therapy.
For instance, cognitive-behavioral therapy aids in teaching skills that could aid in reducing anxiety, such as deep breathing, mindfulness meditation and calming techniques. In the event that children suffering from ADHD have anxiety issues, it is best to treat the ADHD before prescribing an SSRI. This will allow the child to concentrate better at school and will experience less anxiety related to ADHD. It is important to regularly attend therapy sessions to get the most benefit. If needed doctors may recommend an additional psychiatric medication to combat the anxiety. This could be a tricyclic medication, like Tofranil. If anxiety is not addressed, it may hinder the ability of a child to take part in and benefit from therapy. This is why it is essential to get the diagnosis and treatment right, the first time.
