10 Healthy Best ADHD Medication For Adults With Anxiety Habits Best ADHD Medication For Adults With Anxiety

As high as 50% of adults with ADHD also suffer from an anxiety disorder. Treatment options for both conditions include medication and therapy.

Stimulants can increase focus and concentration. They work by keeping receptors that are already "fired up" in your brain "turned-on". They can cause tics and raise your heart rate.


Stimulants

Stimulants like amphetamines and methylphenidates, are the first medication doctors typically use when treating ADHD. They work quickly to improve concentration and decrease impulsivity. Certain people can reduce anxiety by boosting the level of norepinephrine. The majority of stimulant drugs are controlled substances, and consequently are prone to addiction and abuse. Some adults tolerate them well. Initial insomnia can be caused by the drug wearing off or a change in sleep patterns. This can be lowered by taking the medication once a day, instead of three or four times, and also by developing regular routines for sleeping.

Potential side effects from stimulants include a sudden increase in blood pressure, an irregular heartbeat, and changes in hearing or vision. They also can cause weight loss or anorexia, particularly when used in high doses. Additionally, stimulants can cause a rise in mood lability in certain people and make psychotic or manic symptoms appear. adult adhd medication are contraindicated in people with bipolar disorder or severe anorexia. Stimulants can cause mood swings when abruptly stopped. In these instances, it is important that you gradually reduce the dosage.

The use of medications to treat anxiety that are not related to ADHD may be used for people suffering from the disorder. For example antidepressants, such as SSRIs such Sertraline and Fluoxetine may help with ADHD-related anxiety as well as depression. These medicines are usually prescribed "off-label" for ADHD. Some doctors prescribe them to treat ADHD, but medical research does not support this practice.

Non-stimulant medicines for ADHD are slower to work however they can reduce the impulsivity of children and improve focus. They do not alter the amount of norepinephrine present in the brain as significantly as stimulants do, and they are less likely to cause a rapid heart rate or agitation. This class of drugs comprises strattera (atomoxetine) and Clonidine (Kapvay, Intuniv), and Guanfacine (Intuniv, Tenex).

A combination of strategies can be used to treat ADHD and anxiety, such as behavior therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapies and medication. Research has proven that the most effective treatment is a combination of medication and behavioral therapy.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy, for instance help teach skills to reduce anxiety, such as mindfulness, deep breathing and techniques for calming. If children with ADHD have anxiety issues it is advisable to treat the ADHD prior to prescribing an SSRI. This will enable the child to focus better in school and experience fewer anxiety-related symptoms associated with ADHD. It is important to regularly attend therapy sessions to get the most benefit. If needed, a doctor may recommend an additional psychiatric medication to combat anxiety. This could be a tricyclic medication, like Tofranil. If anxiety is not addressed, it could hinder the ability of a child to participate in and benefit from therapy. It is important to establish the correct diagnosis and the treatment correct the first time.