ADHD Anxiety Medication
Anxiety disorders are common among those with ADHD. These two disorders often co-exist and can complicate treatment.
Anxiety disorders can be defined by anxiety and nervousness. ADHD is characterized by inattention and impulsivity. People who have a comorbidity of anxiety and ADHD can benefit from cognitive-behavioral treatment techniques to treat their symptoms.
Non-stimulant medicines
Adults suffering from ADHD tend to be treated first with stimulant drugs, but this is not the only option. Non-stimulant medications can aid in relieving anxiety symptoms. These ADHD medications don't boost dopamine or norepinephrine neurotransmitters within the brain in the same way that stimulant drugs do, however they can help improve focus and decrease hyperactivity and impulsivity. In certain cases it is recommended to combine stimulant and non-stimulant medications is recommended for people with the comorbidity of ADHD and anxiety.
Alpha agonists (Catapres, Kapvay) and antidepressants (Tenex Intuniv) are the most commonly prescribed alpha antagonists for ADHD. Clonidine (Catapres and Kapvay) as well as Guanfacine (Tenex and Intuniv) are the two most frequently prescribed alpha-agonists for ADHD. The drugs were initially developed to treat high blood pressure, they have now been classified into a category of drugs known as norepinephrine receptor agonists or alpha-2-adrenergic antagonists. These medications block the reuptake process of norepinephrine within the brain, which can help reduce ADHD symptoms such as hyperactivity, impulsivity, as well as anxiety.
Strattera (atomoxetine) is the most popular and effective non-stimulant medication for treating adult ADHD. 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 side effects in some people. These include shakiness or difficulty sleeping and a loss of appetite. A doctor might suggest reducing the dose or taking the medication earlier in the morning to reduce these side effects. They may also recommend avoiding caffeinated drinks or supplements in the evening.
Tricyclic antidepressants are an older class depression medication that can be effective in treating both ADHD and anxiety. Doctors usually only prescribe these medications as a last option to limit the chance of serious side negative effects. These include medications such as fluoxetine (Prozac), sertraline, and Sarafem (Zoloft). They're not as effective as stimulants, however they can be very helpful for people suffering from anxiety disorders that are comorbid and ADHD.
There are many solutions to treat ADHD with comorbid anxiety. However, it may take a while to determine the best medication and dosage. It may take a few attempts to find the right treatment for you. Every person reacts differently to medications. adhd no medication is crucial to maintain an open communication with your health care provider and be open about how the medication is affecting your child or yourself.
There are a myriad of self-help methods that can be used to reduce anxiety and ADHD symptoms. These techniques can be as simple as keeping regular sleep patterns eating a balanced and nutritious diet, and practicing relaxation techniques. They could also include learning how to live a life, for example, improving the organization of tasks and prioritizing them. In some cases therapy may be an effective treatment for ADHD and anxiety. BetterHelp matches you with licensed therapists that can teach you or your child new coping techniques and help you manage anxiety and stress. Start the assessment today to be matched with a licensed therapist within 48 hours. It's anonymous, confidential and completely free.