ADHD and Anxiety Medication
Anxiety disorders can be co-occurring with ADHD. Anxiety can trigger restlessness, irritability and trouble sleeping.
The use of stimulants can ease these symptoms however, they may also cause side effects such as tics and minor growth reduction in children and adolescents. Many people also experience their anxiety levels increase when they are taking stimulant medications.
Stimulants
Stimulants are a class of drugs used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and the condition known as narcolepsy. They are also popular among recreational drug users as stimulants and performance-enhancing substances because of their ability to increase energy, alertness and focus. You can find them in the form of tablets, capsules or chunky crystals. They are also available in brown or white dust. The use of large doses can result in excessive stimulation, resulting in anxiety and panic, stomach cramps, aggression and paranoia. The long-term use of stimulants could cause addiction and serious side effects such as heart problems as well as high blood pressure and stroke.
The medications that are typically prescribed to treat ADHD have also proven track record of alleviating symptoms of anxiety. They are effective by boosting brain chemical like dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin. These are lower in ADHD patients. This boosts activity and communication between brain regions that regulate executive and attention. This results in increased impulse control and anxiety symptoms decrease.
Studies have shown that both atomoxetine as well as methylphenidate reduce anxiety symptoms in adults with ADHD and other anxiety disorders. Both medications improved anxiety symptoms as early as the 4th week of treatment. The benefit continued for 8 weeks.
It is important to remember that the type medication that will be most effective in treating anxiety and ADHD symptoms co-occurring may depend on which condition has the greatest impact on a person’s quality of living. One may experience numerous small-scale crises that cause anxiety on a regular schedule as they rush to make appointments or keep up with tasks at school or at work. These can be very distressing and can cause them to be anxious on a more frequently basis than the symptoms of a particular phobia or panic attack would.
In these instances the antidepressants, or SSRIs are the best choice to treat anxiety-related symptoms. These drugs have been proven to be effective at the reduction of anxiety levels among adults. These are taken orally, and may take some time to take effect. The most commonly used options are selective serotonin inhibits (SSRIs) that include Sertraline, Fluoxetine and serotonin, norepinephrine reuptake inhibitions (SNRIs), such as duloxetine, venlafaxine and. These can be taken as a supplement to cognitive-behavioral treatment for anxiety, and are particularly beneficial if a patient has an elevated heart rate or blood pressure.
SSRIs
Antidepressants, like SSRIs (antidepressant drugs) are commonly used to treat anxiety disorders. Prozac is the first drug of this group is fluoxetine. The SSRIs are also effective in treating obsessive-compulsive disorder and post-traumatic disorder. They are more adaptable and have less adverse effects than previous generations of antidepressants.
The SSRIs work by inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin at synapses. This causes the neurotransmitter in the synapse to stay active and signal the post synaptic cell more than would be the case otherwise. This can increase norepinephrine output which reduces anxiety symptoms. It may also lead to increased levels of the neuronal cyclic AMP (cAMP) which stimulates protein production.
SSRIs can also reduce the impulsivity and hyperactivity. They can also improve sleep quality and reduce anxiety for those with ADHD. However, these drugs can increase the risk of suicidal ideas and actions in some people. They can also trigger an increase in appetite and weight gain, particularly when they are first started.
Another type of antidepressant called SNRIs, works differently than SSRIs. SNRIs stop the reuptake serotonin and norepinephrine. Similar to SSRIs, they can have an effect on anxiety, but they also improve the functioning of the heart muscle and blood vessels, which may reduce feelings of anxiety and stress. Certain people with bipolar disorder can also benefit from their use.
The most common SNRIs are duloxetine (Cymbalta) and Venlafaxine (Effexor, Effexor XR) and desvenlafaxine (Khedezla, Pristiq). The SNRIs can raise blood pressure in certain individuals therefore they should not be used by those with high blood pressure or cardiovascular disease.
There are many treatment options for anxiety and ADHD that can be utilized in addition to medication. Meditation and mindfulness techniques can reduce stress and anxiety. Some people find that tapping on specific points on their body, or Emotional Freedom Techniques, helps reduce the cortisol hormone that creates anxiety. Exercise and diet can also reduce anxiety. Your doctor may recommend you consume whole grains, fruits and vegetables, and stay away from sugar as it can increase anxiety for certain ADHD children and adults.
Non-stimulant-based medicines
Although stimulants are highly effective in treating ADHD, and have been extensively studied however they are not the best choice for those who also suffer from anxiety and ADHD. The stimulant drugs can cause side effects like jitteriness, rapid heart rate and nervousness that could be similar to or worsen anxiety symptoms.
Since 2002, non-stimulant medicines are being used to treat ADHD (under the brand name Strattera). They do not cause an increase in heart rate or blood pressure and are less likely to suffer anxiety-related adverse effects like shaking, sweating or nervousness.
Atomoxetine targets receptors for the brain chemical norepinephrine and can aid in improving attention and reduce impulsivity as well as hyperactivity. Studies have also demonstrated that it can help improve anxiety symptoms in adolescents and children with ADHD. Researchers gathered clinical articles from PubMed EMBASE PsycINFO and PsycINFO in order to determine if atomoxetine reduced anxiety symptoms among children and adolescents with ADHD.
Bupropion is a different medication that can help with anxiety symptoms. It targets the brain chemical dopamine. Bupropion is usually prescribed to those suffering from ADHD and depression. It can also improve moods and reduce symptoms of anxiety. It is usually best to treat the anxiety first before tackling ADHD. This can usually make the anxiety symptoms disappear.
In certain cases anxiety symptoms in ADHD children can be the source of their anxiety. The most effective approach to treat anxiety in these circumstances is usually cognitive-behavioral therapies and psychostimulants. This is because these treatments tackle the root of the issue and decrease ADHD symptoms and, consequently, decrease the anxiety.
Antidepressants are also prescribed to people suffering from ADHD and anxiety. SSRI antidepressants that target the brain here chemical Serotonin can aid in relieving anxiety symptoms and improve mood. Examples include Zoloft Lexapro, and Sertraline.
Your doctor will ultimately determine which medication is most suitable for you. They will take a look at your symptoms, lifestyle and age as well as other health conditions prior to recommending any medication. It is very important to discuss your treatment goals with your doctor and adhere to a routine daily while taking any medication.
Other options
Other treatment options may be beneficial in managing ADHD or anxiety, depending on your health goals. These include mindfulness meditation, yoga (Emotional Freedom techniques) tapping sleep and nutrition, exercise and healthy eating habits.
People who are anxious are more likely to develop symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder according to Dr. Hallowell says, which makes it difficult to treat both disorders at the same time. He typically prescribes stimulants first to address ADHD, and then turns to non-stimulant medications like atomoxetine, bupropion, or guanfacine for anxiety disorders. These medications work 24/7 and are not controlled substances, like stimulants.