A Comprehensive Guide To ADHD Anxiety Medication. Ultimate Guide To ADHD Anxiety Medication
ADHD and Anxiety Medication
People with ADHD frequently suffer from co-occurring anxiety disorders. Anxiety can trigger restlessness, sleep disturbance and irritability.
The use of stimulants can ease symptoms, but it may also cause side-effects such as tics or slight growth decreases in adolescents and children. In addition, some people find their anxiety worsens when taking stimulant medication.
Stimulants
Stimulants are substances used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and 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. They can be found in capsules, tablets crystals, chunky clear crystals, or a brown or white powder. The use of large doses of stimulants can cause over-stimulation and result in anxiety and panic attacks, stomach cramps or paranoia. Long-term use of stimulants can also lead to addiction and serious side effects like heart problems, high blood pressure and stroke.
The drugs typically prescribed to treat ADHD are also proven to have a track record of relieving the symptoms of anxiety. They work by increasing brain chemicals such as dopamine, norepinephrine and serotonin. These are lower in ADHD patients. This boosts activity and communication between brain regions that control executive and attention. This leads to improved impulse control, and anxiety symptoms diminish.
Both atomoxetine (as well as methylphenidate) reduce anxiety symptoms in adults with ADHD who also suffer from anxiety disorders. Anxiety symptom improvement was seen from the fourth week of treatment for both drugs, and the benefit was sustained through 8 weeks of treatment.
It is important to note that the type of medication most effective in treating anxiety and ADHD co-occurring symptoms might depend on which disorder has a larger impact on a person's quality of life. A person may experience a variety of small-scale crises that cause anxiety in a regular manner as they rush to make appointments or finish assignments at school or at work. They can be extremely distressing and might cause them to be anxious on a more frequently basis than the symptoms of a particular phobia or panic attack would.
In these situations, antidepressants, or SSRIs are the best option to alleviate anxiety-related symptoms. They have been proven to be effective in decreasing anxiety levels in adults. They are typically taken orally and may take a bit longer to work, but the most popular options are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like Sertraline and Fluoxetine, as well as serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) such as venlafaxine and duloxetine. These medications can be used together with cognitive-behavioral therapy for anxiety. They are especially effective for patients who have an elevated or racing heart rate.
SSRIs
Antidepressants, such as SSRIs (antidepressant medications) are commonly used to treat anxiety disorders. Prozac is the first drug of this group, is fluoxetine. The SSRIs are also effective in treating depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, and post-traumatic disorder. These drugs are more versatile and have less adverse effects than older generations of antidepressants.
The SSRIs inhibit the reuptake serotonin at synapses. This causes the neurotransmitter in the synapse to stay active and communicate with the post synaptic cell more frequently than would be the case in other circumstances. This may increase the output of norepinephrine and reduce anxiety. It can also lead to increased levels of the neuronal cyclicAMP (cAMP) which stimulates protein production.
SSRIs also reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity. They can also improve sleep quality and reduce agitation for some people with ADHD. However, these drugs can increase the possibility of suicidal behavior and thoughts in some people. They can also cause an increase in appetite and weight gain, especially when they are first introduced.
SNRIs are a different type of antidepressant than SSRIs. SNRIs stop the reuptake both serotonin and norepinephrine. Similar to SSRIs, they can influence anxiety, but they can also enhance the functioning of the heart muscle and the blood vessels, which can reduce feelings of anxiety and stress. People with bipolar disorder also benefit from their use.
The most commonly used SNRIs are duloxetine (Cymbalta) and venlafaxine (Effexor, Effexor XR) and desvenlafaxine (Khedezla, Pristiq). SNRIs may cause blood pressure to increase in some people, so those who suffer from high blood pressure and heart disease should not take them.
In addition to medications, there are a number of behavioral treatments that could help with anxiety and ADHD. Meditation and mindfulness techniques can help reduce anxiety and stress. I Am Psychiatry have found that tapping on specific points on their body, or Emotional Freedom Techniques can help lower the cortisol hormone that is responsible for anxiety. Exercise and diet can aid in reducing anxiety. Your doctor may suggest that you consume whole grains, fruits and vegetables, and avoid sugar, since it can worsen anxiety for certain ADHD children and adults.
Non-stimulant-based medications
Although stimulants are highly effective in treating ADHD, and have been extensively researched however they are not the best choice for those who also suffer from anxiety or ADHD. These medications can cause side effects such as anxiety and jitteriness. These symptoms can mimic or worsen anxiety symptoms.
Non-stimulant medications are a more recent option that has been used to treat ADHD since 2002 (under the brand name Strattera). They do not cause an increase in blood pressure or heart rate, and they are less likely to cause anxiety-related side effects like shaking, sweating or nervousness.
Atomoxetine targets receptors for the brain chemical norepinephrine. It can aid in improving attention and reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity. Studies have also demonstrated that it is effective in reducing anxiety symptoms in children and adolescents with ADHD. Researchers gathered clinical articles from PubMed EMBASE PsycINFO and PsycINFO to determine if atomoxetine reduced anxiety symptoms among children and adolescents with ADHD.
Bupropion is another medication that can ease anxiety symptoms. It targets the brain chemical, dopamine. Bupropion is often advised for people who suffer from co-occurring depression and ADHD. It can also improve moods and reduce symptoms of anxiety. It is often best to treat anxiety first before tackling ADHD. This can usually reduce the anxiety symptoms.
In some instances anxiety symptoms in ADHD children are the cause of their anxiety. The most effective treatment for anxiety in these circumstances is usually cognitive-behavioral therapies and psychostimulants. These treatments can help reduce ADHD symptoms and anxiety by addressing the root cause of the problem.
Antidepressants can also be prescribed to people suffering from ADHD and anxiety. SSRI antidepressants, which attack serotonin in the brain can ease anxiety symptoms and improve mood. Examples include Zoloft, Lexapro and Sertraline.
The final decision of which medication is right for you will be made by your doctor. They will take a look at your symptoms, lifestyle, age and other health conditions before recommending any medication. It is essential to discuss your goals for treatment with your physician and adhere to a regular schedule when taking any medication.
Other options
Other treatment options could be beneficial in managing ADHD or anxiety, based on your health goals. These include mindfulness meditation, tapping (Emotional Freedom Techniques) sleep and nutrition, as well as exercise and healthy eating habits.
People who are anxious are more likely to develop symptoms of ADHD Dr. Hallowell says, which can make it difficult to treat both conditions at once. He prescribes stimulants to treat ADHD first, and then non-stimulant medications like atomoxetine or bupropion for anxiety disorders. These medications are available 24/7 and are not controlled substances, similar to stimulants.