Its The Myths And Facts Behind ADHD And Anxiety Medication

ADHD and Anxiety Medication
Stimulants can exacerbate anxiety symptoms for many people suffering from ADHD. Non-stimulant medications such as Atomoxetine (Strattera) and viloxazine (Qelbree), can help alleviate anxiety as well as ADHD symptoms.
Antidepressants, like citalopram and escitalopram can reduce anxiety. Doctors may also prescribe beta blockers such as propranolol or atenolol. They may be prescribed as a first-line treatment or to complement other medicines.
Stimulants
Stimulants are a class of drugs that increase the activity of the central nervous system. They are prescribed to patients who suffer from ADHD to help them focus and manage their behavior. They can also be used to combat anxiety. They can trigger side effects which make them less effective in treating anxiety. Before starting any medication, it is crucial to speak with your doctor about this concern.
Adderall, Ritalin and Dexydrine are stimulants that have been approved by the FDA to treat ADHD. Amphetamines are also in this category, as are methylphenidate and pseudoephedrine. Illicit stimulants include methamphetamine bath salts, cocaine, and MDMA (a synthetic cathinone).
A 2015 meta-analysis found that taking ADHD medications did not increase anxiety symptoms in children suffering from ADHD and anxiety disorder. This conclusion was based upon several studies that used validated scales and prospective methodologies. how does medication for adhd work were open-label and did not compare results to the control group. Therefore, the results should be considered with caution until more research is conducted with controlled and randomized studies.
Stimulants can trigger a variety of side effects, some of which can be hazardous or unpleasant. Some of the most commonly reported side effects include:
Upset stomach, including nausea and vomiting
Sometimes, stimulants can cause an increase in heart rate or blood-pressure which could be harmful for those with a prior history of cardiovascular issues. They can also decrease appetite, which can result in weight loss. Children and adolescents may also experience a delay in growth when they are taking stimulant drugs. This effect is mild and does not impact the final height.
Non-stimulant drugs for ADHD are usually prescribed when stimulants do not provide relief or cause undesirable side effects. These drugs aren't as effective as stimulants however they can be extremely beneficial. They work more slowly and prolong the function of brain receptors involved in regulating behavior and emotions. Atomoxetine is a well-known non-stimulant medication for ADHD and has a low chance of abuse or addiction. However, there is a warning on its label that says it can trigger suicidal thoughts in a small number of people.
The FDA has not approved antidepressants for treating ADHD. However, certain mental health professionals may prescribe these medications to patients suffering from both ADHD and anxiety. They reduce anxiety by acting on the neurotransmitter, norepinephrine. They can also assist those suffering from ADHD-related issues such as hyperactivity and impulsivity. Common antidepressants used to treat both anxiety and ADHD include paroxetine and fluoxetine.
Other medications that can be used "off-label" to treat ADHD and anxiety include clonidine, which works on the vagus nerve, and guanfacine, which acts on a particular brain chemical known as norepinephrine.
In addition to medication and behavioral therapy, behavioral therapy can be beneficial for people suffering from ADHD and anxiety. Cognitive-behavioral (CBT) is primarily focused on teaching techniques to help overcome anxiety and improve performance. It helps people recognize and modify unhelpful thinking patterns that can cause anxiety.