Medications For ADHD and Anxiety
The same drugs that treat ADHD can be used to treat anxiety. The stimulants methylphenidate, amphetamine boost levels of certain brain neurotransmitters. Nonstimulants such as atomoxetine and antidepressants can also aid.
In some instances, stimulant medications can cause anxiety to worsen. If this is the case, then your doctor may recommend a different medication or switch medications.
Stimulants
People with ADHD and anxiety are frequently prescribed stimulants. adhd and anxiety medication are believed to aid both ADHD and anxiety because they boost the brain's production of dopamine. does adhd medication work is a neurotransmitter which promotes concentration and reduces impulsivity. It also supports memory and motivation.
Stimulant drugs such as methylphenidate or amphetamines block the reuptake of norepinephrine as well as dopamine, which keeps their levels higher in the brain. This improves focus and decreases impulsive behavior, making it easier to manage anger and other emotions that could cause anxiety to become worse.
They can also cause an unintended side effect, which is that they occasionally increase anxiety symptoms. You or your child could be having trouble getting enough sleep. Additionally, they may cause a decrease in appetite, which can interfere with eating enough for healthy growth. Some sufferers also experience tics, which are sudden movements or sound like eye blinks and throat clearing. These side effects, although common, can be reduced or eliminated by a few simple techniques.
It is important to keep in mind that each person reacts differently to stimulants and non-stimulant ADHD medications. It might take a bit of trial and error to discover the right combination of medications, dosages, and schedules for your children or yourself.
Your doctor will take into consideration your particular issues and lifestyle when creating the treatment plan. They'll likely recommend a therapy to reduce anxiety and track the response of your medication to determine which options are best for you.
Medications used to treat anxiety may interact with some ADHD medications. Adderall, for example can cause anxiety in children who have both ADHD and anxiety. Psychostimulants could alter the way that the brain processes information regarding potential threats from the external and internal environment.
However, this doesn't mean that ADHD and anxiety can't be treated in tandem. It's possible that treating ADHD symptoms can also reduce anxiety. does adhd medication work is because they may reduce the number and intensity of anxiety-provoking situations that children with ADHD face.
Psychostimulants have been shown to be effective in improving both ADHD and anxiety in a variety of studies. They're usually more effective than traditional antianxiety medication for both disorders. It's possible that the improvement of anxiety associated with psychostimulants is a result of the improved ADHD symptoms rather than the medication itself.