10 Tips For Best ADHD Medication For Adults With Anxiety That Are Unexpected
10 Tips For Best ADHD Medication For Adults With Anxiety That Are Unexpected
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Best ADHD Medication For Adults With Anxiety
Anxiety disorders affect as much as 50 percent of the adults who suffer from ADHD. Treatment strategies for both conditions include medication as well as therapy.
Stimulants are effective in improving attention and focus. They work by keeping already activated brain receptors "turned on" or "fired up." They can cause an increase in your heart rate a little.
Stimulants
Stimulants like amphetamines and methylphenidates, are the first medications doctors usually try in treating ADHD. They work quickly to enhance focus and reduce the impulsivity. They can also alleviate anxiety in certain people by boosting norepinephrine levels. The majority of stimulant medications are controlled substances, and can lead to dependence and abuse. However some adults have found that they are able to take them with ease. They do tend to induce insomnia in the beginning that could be due to a rebound of ADHD symptoms once the medication wears off or to a change in sleep patterns. This can be controlled by taking the medication only one time per day instead of taking it three or more times a week, and by establishing a regular sleeping schedule.
Stimulants can trigger side effects such as a sudden rise in blood pressure, irregular heartbeats or changes in sound or vision. They may also trigger weight loss or anorexia particularly when used in high doses. Additionally, stimulants can cause a rise in mood lability in certain individuals and cause manic or psychotic symptoms appear. They are not recommended for people who suffer from bipolar disorder, or severe anorexia. The mood swings can also occur when stimulants are suddenly removed. In these instances it is crucial to take a gradual reduction in the dosage.
The use of medications to treat anxiety that are different than ADHD may be used for those suffering from the disorder. For instance antidepressants like SSRIs like Sertraline and Fluoxetine can sometimes aid in the treatment of anxiety related to ADHD, as well as depression. These medications are usually prescribed "off-label" for ADHD. Some doctors prescribe these medications to treat ADHD however, medical research does not support this use.
Non-stimulant drugs for ADHD are more difficult to use however they can reduce impulsivity and improve attention. They do not affect the level of norepinephrine in the brain as strongly as stimulants, and are less likely to trigger an increase in heart rate or cause agitation. This class of medications includes strattera (atomoxetine) and Clonidine (Kapvay, Intuniv), and Guanfacine (Intuniv, Tenex).
A combination of here strategies can be used to treat ADHD and anxiety, such as behavioral therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy and medications. The most effective treatment for anxiety and ADHD is a combination medication and behavioral therapy.
For instance, cognitive-behavioral therapy helps teach skills that can aid in reducing anxiety by incorporating techniques such as deep breathing, mindfulness meditation and techniques for calming. In cases where children with ADHD have anxiety problems it is recommended to treat the ADHD before prescribing an SSRI. This will allow the child to focus better at school and will experience less anxiety due to ADHD. To achieve the best results, it is important to take part in therapy sessions regularly. A doctor may prescribe a different psychiatric medication to treat anxiety when needed. This may be a tricyclic antidepressant like Tofranil. If the anxiety is not addressed, it could hinder a child's ability to participate in therapy and gain benefits from it. It is crucial to determine the cause and the treatment right the first time.