Learn To Communicate ADHD Anxiety Medication To Your Boss
ADHD and Anxiety Medication
People with ADHD frequently suffer from co-occurring anxiety disorders. Anxiety can trigger restlessness, anxiety, and insomnia.
The use of stimulants can ease symptoms, but they can cause adverse effects, like tics, or slight growth decreases in adolescents and children. In addition, some individuals have anxiety issues while taking stimulant medications.
Stimulants
Stimulants are drugs that are 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. They can be found in capsules, tablets, chunky clear crystals or a white or brown powder. In large doses, they can cause over-stimulation, resulting in anxiety and stomach cramps, panic, aggression and paranoia. Long-term use of stimulants can lead to addiction, serious adverse effects such as heart problems stroke, high pressure and heart problems.
These medicines have also been shown to relieve anxiety symptoms. They improve the availability of the brain chemicals norepinephrine and dopamine that are generally lower in those with ADHD. This increases activity and communication between parts of the brain that control attention and executive function. This results in increased impulse control and anxiety symptoms decrease.
Both atomoxetine (as well as methylphenidate) reduce anxiety symptoms among adults with ADHD who also have anxiety disorders. Both medications showed improvement in anxiety symptoms from the very first week of treatment. The benefits lasted for 8 weeks.
It is important to note that the kind of medication most effective in treating anxiety and ADHD co-occurring symptoms could depend on which disorder has a larger impact on the quality of life of an individual. An individual may experience many small-scale crises that cause anxiety in a regular manner as they try to meet appointments or finish projects at work or school. These can be extremely stressful and might cause them to be anxious on a more frequent basis than the symptoms of a specific phobia or panic attack would.
In these situations, antidepressants, or SSRIs are the best choice to alleviate anxiety-related symptoms. They have been proven to be effective at decreasing anxiety levels in adults. These are usually taken orally and can take a little longer to effect the desired effects, however the most commonly used options are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) such as Sertraline and Fluoxetine, and serotonin and norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) like venlafaxine and duloxetine. They can be used as a supplement to cognitive-behavioral treatment for anxiety and are especially beneficial if a patient has a racing heart or elevated blood pressure.
SSRIs
SSRIs which are antidepressant medications are commonly used to treat anxiety disorders. The first drug in this category is fluoxetine, better known as Prozac. The SSRIs are also effective in treating post-traumatic disorder and obsessive compulsive disorder. They are more versatile than the earlier versions of antidepressants. Additionally, they have fewer and fewer dangerous adverse effects.
The SSRIs inhibit the reuptake serotonin at synapses. This causes the neurotransmitter inside the synapse to stay active and signal the post synaptic cell more than is the case with other neurotransmitters. This can increase the production of norepinephrine and reduce anxiety. This can also increase levels of neuronal cyclicAMP (cAMP) and stimulate the synthesis of proteins.
Additionally, SSRIs can decrease impulsiveness and reduce hyperactivity. They also can improve sleep quality and decrease anxiety for those with ADHD. However, these drugs can, increase the risk of suicidal behavior and thoughts in certain people. They can also cause an increase in appetite and weight gain, especially when they are first started.
Another type of antidepressant known as SNRIs, performs differently than the SSRIs. SNRIs hinder the reuptake of serotonin as well as norepinephrine. Similar to SSRIs they may have an effect on anxiety, but they can also improve the functioning of heart muscle and blood vessels, which may decrease anxiety and stress. Certain people with bipolar disorder can also benefit from their use.
Duloxetine (Cymbalta) and venlafaxine (Effexor XR, Pristiq) and desvenlafaxine are the most common SNRIs. SNRIs may cause blood pressure to rise in certain individuals, so people with high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease should stay clear of them.
In addition to medications and other treatments, there are a myriad of behavioral treatments that could help with anxiety and ADHD. Mindfulness-based techniques can be beneficial in reducing anxiety and stress, as can practicing yoga and meditation. Some people find tapping specific points of the body, or Emotional Freedom Techniques, can help reduce the cortisol hormone that causes anxiety. Diet and exercise can also aid in reducing anxiety. Your doctor may recommend a diet of whole grains, fruits and vegetables and avoiding sugar, which can increase anxiety in certain ADHD adults and children.
Non-stimulant-based drugs
While stimulants are highly effective in treating ADHD and have been extensively researched however they are not the best choice for people who suffer from anxiety and ADHD. The stimulant medications can trigger adverse effects like anxiety and jitteriness. These symptoms can be similar to or worsen anxiety symptoms.
Since 2002, non-stimulant medications are being used to treat ADHD (under the brand name Strattera). They do not increase heart rate or blood pressure and are less likely to suffer anxiety-related adverse effects like shaking, sweating, or nervousness.
Atomoxetine works by targeting receptors for norepinephrine. It is a brain chemical that improves concentration and decrease hyperactivity and impulsivity. It has also been proven to reduce anxiety symptoms in adolescents and children with ADHD. Researchers gathered clinical articles from PubMed, EMBASE and PsycINFO to determine whether atomoxetine helped reduce anxiety in adolescents and children with ADHD.
Bupropion is another drug that can ease anxiety symptoms. It targets the brain chemical, dopamine. Bupropion is often recommended for people with co-existing depression and ADHD. It can also boost mood and decrease symptoms of anxiety. It is often an excellent idea to identify and treat the underlying anxiety-related issue before treating the ADHD because it can make anxiety symptoms disappear.
It is very common for kids with ADHD to have problems with anxiety, and in some instances, the anxiety is caused by their ADHD symptoms. Psychostimulants and cognitive-behavioral treatments are typically the most effective methods to treat anxiety in this scenario. This is because these treatments address the root cause of the problem and decrease ADHD symptoms and, consequently, decrease anxiety.
Antidepressants may also be prescribed to patients suffering from ADHD and anxiety. SSRI antidepressants that target Serotonin, a chemical in the brain, can alleviate anxiety symptoms and improve mood. Examples include Zoloft Lexapro and Sertraline.
The final decision of the right medication for you will be made by your physician. Before recommending medication for adult adhd will take into consideration your lifestyle, symptoms, age, as well as other health conditions. It is very important to discuss your treatment goals with your doctor and stick to a routine daily while taking any medication.
Other options
Other options for treatment may be beneficial to manage ADHD or anxiety, depending on your health goals. These include mindfulness meditation, yoga, tapping (Emotional Freedom Techniques) sleep, nutrition, exercise and healthy eating habits.
Dr. Hallowell says that people who suffer from anxiety are more likely to develop symptoms of ADHD, making it difficult to treat both conditions simultaneously. He typically prescribes stimulants first to address ADHD and then shifts to non-stimulant medications like bupropion, atomoxetine or guanfacine to treat anxiety disorders. These medications are used throughout the day and are not controlled substances as stimulants.