ADHD and Anxiety Medication
Many people suffering from ADHD also suffer from anxiety, and their symptoms may worsen when they take stimulants. Non-stimulant drugs like atomoxetine, (Strattera), and viloxazine, (Qelbree) can reduce anxiety and ADHD symptoms.
Antidepressants, like citalopram and escitalopram can help reduce anxiety. Beta-blockers, such a propranolol and atenolol can be prescribed by a doctor. They can be prescribed as a first-line treatment as an addition to other medicines.
Stimulants
Stimulants are a class of drugs that increase activity in the central nervous system. They are prescribed to patients with ADHD to aid in their focus and control their behaviour. They can also treat anxiety. However, stimulants can cause side effects which make them less effective in anxiety treatment. It is important to discuss this issue with your physician prior to starting medication.
Medications that are considered stimulants include Adderall, Ritalin, and Dexydrine All of which are FDA-approved to treat ADHD. Other medications in this category include amphetamines pseudoephedrine, and methylphenidate. Illicit stimulants include methamphetamine and other drugs like cocaine, bath salts (synthetic cathinones) and ecstasy (MDMA).
A meta-analysis from 2015 found that taking ADHD medications did not cause an increase in anxiety symptoms in children suffering from ADHD and anxiety disorders. This conclusion was based on several studies using validated scales and prospective methodologies. It is important to remember that these studies were based on open-label research, however, they did not compare the results against an uncontrolled group. The results should therefore be viewed with caution until further research is conducted using controlled, random trials.
Stimulants can trigger a variety of negative side effects, some which can be uncomfortable or even dangerous. Some of the most common are:
Upset stomach, including nausea and vomiting
Sometimes, stimulants can trigger an increase in heart rate or blood pressure that could be risky for people who have a history of cardiovascular problems. They can also reduce appetite, which could cause weight loss. These medications can also slow growth in certain children and adolescents. adhd stimulant medication is not severe and does not impact the final height.
Non-stimulant ADHD medication is prescribed when stimulants don't help or cause unacceptable side effects. These medications don't work like stimulants do, but they can still be extremely effective. They act more gradually, prolonging the activity of brain receptors involved in the regulation of behaviour and emotions. Atomoxetine is a popular non-stimulant medication for ADHD, and it has a low chance of abuse or addiction. It has a warning that it may trigger suicidal thoughts in a small percentage of people.
The FDA has not approved antidepressants for treating ADHD. However, some mental health professionals may prescribe them to patients who suffer from both ADHD and anxiety. These medications affect the neurotransmitter norepinephrine to reduce anxiety, and they can aid in reducing ADHD symptoms like hyperactivity and hyperactivity and impulsivity. Common antidepressants used to treat both anxiety and ADHD include fluoxetine and paroxetine.
Other medications that are employed "off-label" to treat ADHD and anxiety include clonidine which acts on the vagus nerve, and guanfacine, which works on a specific brain chemical known as norepinephrine.
In addition to medication, behavioral therapy can also be beneficial for those suffering from ADHD and anxiety. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is focused on teaching techniques that can be used to conquer anxiety that is causing the problem and improve functioning. It helps people identify and alter unhelpful patterns of thinking that contribute towards anxiety.