ADHD and Anxiety Medication
Many people suffering from ADHD also suffer from anxiety, and their symptoms can get worse when they are taking stimulants. But non-stimulant medicines like Atomoxetine (Strattera) and viloxazine (Qelbree) can help alleviate both anxiety and ADHD symptoms.
Antidepressants may also reduce anxiety, especially selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors such as citalopram (Celexa) and escitalopram (Lexapro). Doctors may also prescribe beta-blockers like propranolol and atenolol. adhd medication adults uk are often prescribed as a first-line treatment or as an addition to other medications.
Stimulants
Stimulants are a group of drugs that increase the activity of the central nervous systems. They are often prescribed for ADHD to help those with limited attention spans focus and control their behavior. They also treat anxiety. However, stimulants can sometimes cause side effects that make them less effective for anxiety treatment. Before starting any medication, it is important to talk with your physician about this issue.
Adderall, Ritalin and Dexydrine are stimulants that have been FDA-approved for treating ADHD. Amphetamines are also included in this category, as are pseudoephedrine and methylphenidate. Illicit stimulants are methamphetamine, bath salts, cocaine and MDMA (a synthetic cathinone).
A meta-analysis conducted in 2015 showed that taking ADHD medications did not increase anxiety symptoms in children suffering from ADHD and anxiety disorder. This conclusion was based on a variety of studies that used validated scales and prospective methodologies. These studies were open-label, and did not compare results to an uncontrolled group. The results should therefore be viewed with caution until more research has been conducted using controlled, randomized trials.
In general, stimulants cause a variety of negative side effects that can be uncomfortable or dangerous. Some of the most frequent adverse effects are:
Upset stomach, including nausea and vomiting
Occasionally, stimulants can cause an increased blood pressure or heart rate that can be dangerous in those with 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. The effect isn't severe and doesn't impact the final height.
Non-stimulant medications for ADHD are typically prescribed when stimulants don't provide relief or cause undesirable adverse effects. These drugs aren't as effective as stimulants however they can be extremely beneficial. They operate slower, extending brain receptors involved in regulating emotions and behavior. Atomoxetine is a popular non-stimulant medication for ADHD, and it is not at risk of abuse or addiction. However, it comes with an informational label that states it could cause suicidal ideas in a small proportion of people.
Antidepressants are not approved by the FDA to treat ADHD however, certain mental health professionals prescribe them to patients with ADHD and anxiety. They can reduce anxiety by acting on the neurotransmitter, norepinephrine. They can also help with symptoms of ADHD, such as impulsivity and hyperactivity. Antidepressants, such as fluoxetine and paroxetine are commonly used to treat anxiety and ADHD.
Clonidine is a medication that works on the vagus nervous system, and guanfacine are two other medications that can be used to treat ADHD or anxiety "off-label".
In addition to medications as well, behavioral therapy may be beneficial for people suffering from ADHD and anxiety. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is focused on teaching skills that can be used to overcome anxiety-related issues and improve performance. It helps people recognize and alter unhelpful patterns of thinking that contribute towards anxiety.