ADHD Anxiety Medication
Anxiety disorders are common among people with ADHD. It's common for these two conditions to co-occur and this can make it difficult to diagnosis and treatment.
Anxiety disorders can be defined by nervousness and worry. In contrast to ADHD which is characterized by inattention and impulsivity. adhd otc medication who suffer from comorbid anxiety and ADHD can use cognitive-behavioral therapy techniques to treat their symptoms.
Non-stimulant medications
Adults with ADHD are usually treated with stimulant medication first, but this is not the only option. Non-stimulant medications also can aid in reducing anxiety symptoms. These ADHD medications don't increase dopamine and norepinephrine neurotransmitters inside the brain as stimulant medications do, but they can help increase focus and reduce impulsiveness and hyperactivity. In certain instances, a combination of stimulant and non-stimulant drugs is recommended for those suffering from co-occurring ADHD and anxiety.
Alpha agonists (Catapres Kapvay, Catapres) and antidepressants (Tenex Intuniv, Tenex) are the most frequently prescribed alpha antagonists for ADHD. Clonidine (Catapres and Kapvay) as well as guanfacine, (Tenex and Intuniv) are the two most commonly prescribed alpha-agonists for ADHD. They were originally designed to treat high blood pressure but are now classified as a class of drugs known as norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors, or alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonists. These medications inhibit the reuptake of norepinephrine the brain, which can help reduce ADHD symptoms like hyperactivity, impulsivity, and anxiety.
Strattera (atomoxetine) is the most popular and effective non-stimulant medication used to treat adult ADHD is available as an oral capsule. It comes in oral capsules and can be taken with or without food. Adults and children are tolerant, however some people may suffer from negative effects. These include shakiness as well as sleepiness issues and loss of appetite. A doctor might suggest reducing the dosage or taking the medication earlier in the morning to reduce these adverse effects. They might also advise not drinking caffeinated drinks or supplements at night.
Tricyclic antidepressants are an old class depression medication that can be effective in treating both ADHD and anxiety. Doctors usually only prescribe these medications as a last resort to minimize the risk of serious negative side effects. These include medications like fluoxetine (Prozac) and sertraline and Sarafem (Zoloft). They don't work as quickly as stimulants, but they can be extremely beneficial for people suffering from comorbid anxiety and ADHD.
There are many ways to treat ADHD with comorbid anxiety. However, it may take time to determine the right dosage and medication. A person's reaction to medication can vary from one person to the next, and it could take a few tries to determine the best treatment. It's important to always keep an open line of communication with a healthcare professional and be honest about how the medication affects your child or yourself.
There are a myriad of self-help methods that can be used to control anxiety and ADHD symptoms. These methods can be as simple as things like keeping regular sleeping patterns and eating a balanced diet, and practicing relaxation methods. They can also include learning life skills, like improving efficiency and prioritizing tasks. In some cases therapy may be an effective treatment for ADHD and anxiety. BetterHelp can connect you with licensed therapists that can teach you new coping techniques and help you overcome feelings like anxiety and stress. Begin the assessment today to find a therapist within less than 48 hours. It's confidential, anonymous and free.