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Concerta (Methylphenidate).

Concerta is a brand name for methylphenidate, a commonly prescribed medication for ADHD. It helps people focus, pay attention, and control their impulses. Since a considerable number of people have both anxiety and ADHD, some may wonder whether Concerta is also effective for anxiety. Unfortunately, Concerta can worsen anxiety and is therefore not recommended for people who already experience severe anxiety.

What is Concerta?

Concerta is a long-acting stimulant medication primarily used to treat ADHD. Its active ingredient, methylphenidate, works by increasing the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. These neurotransmitters help people pay attention, focus, and control their impulses.

Concerta’s stimulant properties help individuals with ADHD improve their ability to concentrate and stay organized.

Does Concerta Help With Anxiety?

While Concerta is highly effective for ADHD, it is not FDA-approved for treating Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD).

Additionally, according to the medication’s website, anxiety is one of the most common side effects of taking Concerta. As a result, Concerta is not recommended for people who already experience anxiety, especially severe anxiety.

How Concerta Can Impact Anxiety

Due to its side effects, Concerta is not recommended for people with glaucoma, Tourette’s syndrome, or severe anxiety.

Stimulant medications like Concerta can trigger or worsen anxiety-related symptoms, such as:

  • Nervousness or jitteriness.
  • Increased heart rate and blood pressure.
  • Feelings of restlessness or agitation.

What’s more, studies suggest in children and adults with ADHD anxiety is present in up to 30% of children and up to 53% of adults with ADHD.

Given Concerta’s potential to create and worsen anxiety-like symptoms and its prevalence among people with ADHD, Concerta is unlikely to be recommended by your doctor if you have ADHD.

Concerta Alternatives for ADHD and Anxiety

As a considerable number of people with ADHD also have anxiety, it is important to know which medications work well when someone has both.

Stimulants are the most effective medication for ADHD, but their anxiety-like side effects mean that people with ADHD and anxiety must rely on non-stimulant medications.

There are two types of non-stimulant options for ADHD and anxiety: antidepressants and alpha agonists.

  • Antidepressants. Atomoxetine (Strattera) is the most common antidepressant medication used for ADHD. It is a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) that treats ADHD symptoms but is significantly less effective than stimulants. It may be used in children who don’t respond well to stimulants or those with ADHD and anxiety.
  • Alpha agonists. Alpha agonists can also treat ADHD symptoms but have side effects on the cardiovascular system. They’re also more effective in younger children than adults.

Other Effective Treatments for Anxiety

The following treatments may also be effective alternatives for anxiety medication:

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). A highly effective approach for identifying and changing negative thought patterns that fuel anxiety.
  • Mindfulness-Based Therapy. Techniques such as meditation and relaxation exercises can help reduce stress and anxiety.
  • Lifestyle changes. Including regular exercise, adequate sleep, a balanced diet, and stress management practices such as yoga or deep breathing exercises.

When to Talk to Your Doctor About Your Potential Anxiety

Recognizing when to seek professional help for anxiety will help you manage the condition safely and effectively. Anxiety can manifest in various ways, and knowing the red flags can help you to take action before the symptoms worsen.

These are some of the most common warning signs you may need to talk to a doctor about anxiety:

  • Ongoing fears or worries disrupt your daily life.
  • Physical symptoms include a racing heart, sweating or trembling.
  • Difficulty falling or staying asleep.
  • Your symptoms cause issues at work, school, or in relationships.
  • Your symptoms lead you to avoid situations due to fear of experiencing them.

A healthcare provider can help identify the underlying cause of anxiety and recommend anxiety treatments tailored to your needs. Whether it’s medication, therapy, or lifestyle adjustments, working with a doctor ensures a safe and effective approach to recovery.

Concerta Is Not Recommended for Anxiety

While Concerta is a proven solution for ADHD, it has well-known anxiety-like side effects that can deeply affect the lives of people who have ADHD, anxiety, or both.

If you’re exploring treatment options for ADHD or anxiety, we encourage you to use our Find a Provider feature to find providers near your location. This will help you access comprehensive resources and support tailored to your needs.

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