Best ADHD Medication For Adults With Anxiety

Anxiety disorders affect as much as 50% of adults who have ADHD. Treatment approaches for managing both conditions include medication as well as therapy.

Stimulants are effective in improving attention and focus. They work by keeping previously activated brain receptors "turned on" or "fired up." They are often associated with tics and may increase the heart rate.

Stimulants

Stimulants, such as amphetamines and methylphenidates, are the first medications doctors will typically try in treating ADHD. These drugs act quickly to enhance concentration and reduce impulsivity. Some people are able to reduce anxiety by increasing the level of norepinephrine. The majority of stimulant drugs are controlled substances, which means they have a high risk of addiction and abuse. However some adults have found that they are able to tolerate them well. They do induce insomnia in the beginning, which may result from a rebound of ADHD symptoms when the medication is taken off or due to an alteration in sleep patterns. This can be controlled by taking the medication only one time per day instead of three or four times a week, and also by creating regular sleeping patterns.

Stimulants can trigger adverse effects, such as a sudden rise in blood pressure, irregular heartbeats and changes in hearing or vision. They can adhd medication help with memory also cause weight loss and anorexia, especially when taken in large doses. In addition, stimulants can increase the likelihood of mood instability in certain individuals and cause manic or psychotic symptoms appear. They are not recommended for those who suffer from bipolar disorder or severe anorexia. They can cause mood swings if they are abruptly stopped. In these cases it is essential to gradually decrease in the dosage.

People suffering from adhd focus medication might be prescribed medication to help treat anxiety. For example antidepressants, such as SSRIs such as Sertraline and Fluoxetine may help with ADHD-related anxiety and depression. These medications are often prescribed "off-label" for ADHD. Certain doctors also prescribe them to treat ADHD however this practice is not supported by medical research.

Non-stimulant ADHD medicines are slower to act however they can help reduce impulsivity and increase attention. They do not affect the level of norepinephrine in the brain as significantly as stimulants, and are less likely to cause rapid heart rate or agitation. This class of drugs includes strattera (atomoxetine) and Clonidine (Kapvay, Intuniv), and Guanfacine (Intuniv, Tenex).

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

Cognitive-behavioral therapies, for example help teach skills to reduce anxiety, such as mindfulness, deep breathing, and techniques for calming. In the event that children suffering from ADHD have anxiety problems it is advisable to treat the ADHD prior to prescribing an SSRI. This will enable the child to be more focused in school and experience fewer anxiety-related symptoms associated with ADHD. To achieve the best adhd medication for women results it is essential to take part in therapy sessions regularly. If necessary doctors may recommend an additional psychiatric medication to treat anxiety. This could be a tricyclic medication, such as Tofranil. If anxiety is not addressed, it could affect a child's capacity to participate in therapy and gain benefits from it. This is why it's crucial to get the diagnosis and treatment correct the first time.