ADHD and Anxiety Medication
Many people who suffer from ADHD also experience anxiety and their symptoms can worsen when they are taking stimulants. adhd without medication -stimulant medications like atomoxetine (Strattera) and viloxazine, (Qelbree) can help alleviate anxiety as well as ADHD symptoms.
Antidepressants may also reduce anxiety, specifically selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, such as citalopram (Celexa) and escitalopram (Lexapro). Doctors may also prescribe beta blockers like propranolol or atenolol. They may be prescribed as a first-line treatment or as an addition to other medication.
Stimulants
Stimulants are a group of drugs that increase activity in the central nervous system. They are prescribed to those who suffer from ADHD in order to help them focus and control their behaviour. They can also be used to treat anxiety. However, stimulants may cause side effects that can make them less effective for anxiety treatment. Before you begin any medication, it is crucial to speak with your doctor about this concern.
Medications that are considered stimulants include Adderall, Ritalin, and Dexydrine All of which are FDA-approved to treat ADHD. Amphetamines also fall into this category, as well as pseudoephedrine and methylphenidate. Illicit stimulants include methamphetamine, other substances like cocaine, bath salts (synthetic cathinones) and ecstasy (MDMA).
A 2015 meta-analysis concluded that taking ADHD medication did not cause more anxiety in children suffering from ADHD or anxiety disorders. This finding was based on numerous studies that used validated scales and a prospective methodology. These studies were open-label, and did not compare results to an uncontrolled group. These results should be taken with caution until more research has been conducted using controlled, random trials.
Stimulants can trigger a variety of negative side effects, some which may be hazardous or unpleasant. Some of the most common are:
Upset stomach, including nausea and vomiting
Sometimes, stimulants can trigger an increase in blood pressure or heart rate which could be harmful for those with a history of heart disease. They can also reduce appetite, which could result in weight loss. Children and adolescents may also experience a slowing of growth when they are taking stimulant drugs. The effect is usually mild and does not affect the height of a person.
Non-stimulant medicines for ADHD are typically prescribed when stimulants don't aid or cause unacceptable side effects. These medications don't work like stimulants do however they can be extremely efficient. They work more slowly, prolonging the activity of brain receptors that are involved in regulating the way we behave and our emotions. Atomoxetine, a non-stimulant medication extensively used to treat ADHD, has an extremely low dependence or abuse risk. It has a warning that it may trigger suicidal feelings in a small percentage of people.
Antidepressants are not approved by the FDA to treat ADHD, but certain mental health professionals prescribe them to patients with ADHD and anxiety. These medications reduce anxiety by acting on the neurotransmitter norepinephrine. They can also assist with ADHD-related symptoms like impulsivity and hyperactivity. Common antidepressants that are often used to treat anxiety and ADHD include paroxetine and fluoxetine.
Clonidine, a medication that works on the vagus nervous system, and guanfacine are the other medications that can be used to treat ADHD or anxiety "off-label".
In addition to medication and behavioral therapy, behavioral therapy can be beneficial for those suffering from ADHD and anxiety. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is focused on teaching skills that can be utilized to combat anxiety-related issues and improve performance. It also helps people learn to recognize and change unhelpful thinking patterns that cause the anxiety.
