5 Lessons You Can Learn From Medication For ADHD And Anxiety
Medication For ADHD and Anxiety
The most commonly prescribed treatment for ADHD is stimulants like the methylphenidates (Ritalin) and dextroamphetamines (Adderall). These drugs increase and balance levels of brain chemicals.
These medications can result in side effects like jitteriness, or an increased heart rate, which may increase anxiety symptoms. Therefore, these medications are typically not recommended for those with coexisting anxiety and ADHD.
Stimulants
The medications used to treat ADHD may help reduce anxiety in people suffering from the condition. However, they are not a cure for the disorder, so it is essential to continue with therapy sessions or other treatments in addition to taking your medication. If the side effects are severe or affect your daily life, speak to your doctor about changing the dosage or experimenting with a different drug.
Commonly prescribed medications for ADHD include the methylphenidate (Ritalin) and amphetamines (Adderall). These medications work by increasing the amount of chemicals present in the brain that are involved in focusing to thoughts, organizing thoughts and controlling impulses.
But these medicines can have unwanted side effects, like jitteriness, increased heart rate and anxiety. These symptoms may mimic symptoms of anxiety, or even worsen an anxiety disorder already present that's why doctors typically do not prescribe ADHD stimulant medications like mixed amphetamine salts and atomoxetine to those suffering from an anxiety disorder.
It's important to talk with your doctor about any restrictions you may have before starting treatment. These medications may also cause adverse reactions when used in conjunction with certain drinks and foods. Inform your doctor if you are taking any prescription or supplements and if you suffer from any health conditions or lifestyle choices that may impact the effectiveness of the medication.
It's not uncommon for individuals to suffer from both anxiety disorders and ADHD. About half of people who suffer from ADHD also suffer from an anxiety disorder. The treatment of ADHD symptoms can help ease anxiety, and treating the executive function issues of ADHD can reduce stress due to time management and organizational issues according to Claire Streeter, PMHNP, ARNP psychiatrist and mental health nurse practitioner working with Charlie Health Psychiatric Mental Health Services.
Some of the most common treatments for ADHD are also effective as anxiety medications like methylphenidate and dextroamphetamine. adhd medication adults uk work by boosting the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain, which can increase concentration and control impulses. These medications can also lower blood pressure and heart rates and can have a calming effect. These drugs are usually prescribed in prolonged-release or long-acting formulations that build up over a longer time period. This helps reduce the peak of symptoms that happen as the medication wears away and stops anxiety from increasing. Streeter explains that these drugs are less likely to trigger an "rebound" affect which could cause ADHD or anxiety symptoms worse once the medication has been taken off.