ADHD and Anxiety Medication
People with ADHD typically suffer from co-occurring anxiety disorders. Anxiety can lead to anxiety, restlessness and sleeplessness.
Stimulant medications can ease symptoms, but it may cause adverse effects, such as tics or minor growth reductions in children and adolescents. In addition, some people find their anxiety worsens when taking stimulant medications.
Stimulants
Stimulants are drugs that are 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 are available in capsules, tablets, chunky clear crystals or a brown or white powder. The use of large doses can result in excessive stimulation, resulting in anxiety and panic, stomach cramps as well as paranoia and aggression. Long-term stimulant use can cause addiction and severe adverse effects, such as heart issues stroke, high pressure and heart problems.
These medications are also proven to relieve anxiety symptoms. They help by increasing the availability of the brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine which are typically lower in people with ADHD. This improves communication and activity between brain regions that regulate the executive and attention functions. This leads to an improvement in impulse control, and anxiety symptoms diminish.
Both atomoxetine (as as well as methylphenidate) reduce anxiety symptoms among adults with ADHD who also have anxiety disorders. Improvement in anxiety symptoms was observed in the first week of treatment for both drugs and the effect was continued for 8 weeks of treatment.
It is important to note that the type medication that is most effective for treating anxiety and ADHD symptoms co-occurring may depend on which of the conditions has more impact on a person’s quality of living. For example, an individual might experience a lot of anxious mini-crises on a daily basis when they have to make appointments or try to keep on top of school or work. These can be extremely stressful and can cause them to be anxious on a more frequently basis than the symptoms of a specific anxiety or panic attack.
In these cases, antidepressants, or SSRIs are the best choice to combat anxiety-related symptoms. These drugs have been proven to be effective at reducing anxiety levels in adults. These are usually taken orally and may take a little longer to work, but the most popular options are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) such as Sertraline and Fluoxetine, as well as serotonin and norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) like duloxetine and venlafaxine. These can be taken alongside cognitive-behavioral therapy for anxiety, and are particularly useful when a patient is suffering from high blood pressure.
SSRIs
SSRIs, which are antidepressant drugs, are often used to treat anxiety disorders. The first drug in this class is fluoxetine, more commonly known as Prozac. The SSRIs can also help treat depression, obsessive compulsive disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder. They are more adaptable and have less adverse effects than previous generations of antidepressants.
The SSRIs hinder the reuptake of serotonin from synapses. This causes the neurotransmitter remain active within the synapse and communicate with the post-synaptic cells more often than it would otherwise. This may increase the output of norepinephrine, which may reduce anxiety. It can also increase the levels of neuronal cyclicAMP (cAMP) which can stimulate protein synthesis.
Additionally, SSRIs can reduce impulsivity and reduce hyperactivity. They also can improve sleep quality and reduce agitation for some people with ADHD. However, these medications can increase the risk of suicidal ideas and behavior in certain individuals. They can also trigger an increase in appetite and weight gain, particularly when they are first introduced.
Another type of antidepressant known as SNRIs, functions differently than the SSRIs. SNRIs stop the reuptake both serotonin and norepinephrine. They can also have an impact on anxiety. They can improve the functioning of both the heart muscle and blood vessels. This can help reduce feelings of anxiety and stress. Certain people with bipolar disorder also benefit from their use.
Duloxetine (Cymbalta), venlafaxine, (Effexor XR, Pristiq) and desvenlafaxine are the most commonly used SNRIs. The SNRIs may raise blood pressure in some people therefore they should not be used by anyone with high blood pressure or cardiovascular disease.
There are many treatment options for anxiety and ADHD that can be used in conjunction with medication. Mindfulness practices can be helpful in reducing stress and anxiety as can yoga and meditation. Some people have found tapping specific points of the body, or Emotional Freedom Techniques can help lower the cortisol hormone that creates anxiety. Exercise and diet can aid in reducing anxiety. Your doctor may suggest that you consume whole grains, fruits and vegetables, and to avoid sugar, since it can worsen anxiety for certain ADHD children and adults.
Non-stimulant-based medicines
While stimulants are very effective in treating ADHD and have been extensively researched however they are not the best option for those who suffer from anxiety and ADHD. The stimulant drugs can cause adverse effects such as jitteriness, rapid heart rate, and nervousness that may be similar to or worsen anxiety symptoms.
Since 2002, non-stimulant drugs have been used for ADHD (under the brand name Strattera). They do not increase the heart rate or blood pressure, and are less likely than stimulant medications to cause anxiety-related adverse reactions such as sweating, shaking, or nervousness.
Atomoxetine targets receptors for the brain chemical norepinephrine and can aid in improving concentration and reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity. It has also been found to alleviate anxiety symptoms in children and adolescents with ADHD. Researchers collected clinical articles from PubMed EMBASE PsycINFO and PsycINFO in order to determine if atomoxetine decreased anxiety symptoms among children and adolescents with ADHD.
Bupropion is another medication that can help with anxiety symptoms. It targets the brain chemical dopamine. Bupropion is usually prescribed to patients suffering from ADHD and depression. It can also help improve mood and help reduce anxiety symptoms. It click here is often best to treat anxiety first before tackling ADHD. This will usually make the anxiety symptoms disappear.
It is very common for kids with ADHD to have problems with anxiety, and in some cases the anxiety is actually caused by their ADHD symptoms. The most effective method of treating anxiety in these situations is usually cognitive-behavioral therapies and psychostimulants. This is because these treatments tackle the root of the issue and reduce ADHD symptoms, which will consequently, decrease the anxiety.
Antidepressants can also be prescribed to those who have ADHD and anxiety. SSRI antidepressants, which attack serotonin, a brain chemical can ease anxiety symptoms and improve mood. Examples include Zoloft, Lexapro and Sertraline.
Ultimately, the decision of the right medication for you will be determined by your physician. Before recommending a drug, they will take into consideration your symptoms, lifestyle and age, along with other health issues. It is very important to discuss your goals for treatment with your doctor and stick to a routine daily while taking any medication.
Other options
Depending on your unique health goals, there are other treatment options that may also be beneficial in managing ADHD and anxiety. These include mindfulness meditation, tapping (Emotional Freedom Techniques) sleep and nutrition, as well as exercise and healthy eating habits.
People with anxiety are more likely to suffer from symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder Dr. Hallowell says, which can make it difficult to treat both conditions simultaneously. He usually prescribes stimulants first to address ADHD and then shifts to non-stimulant drugs like bupropion, atomoxetine, or guanfacine for anxiety disorders. These work around the clock and are not controlled drugs like stimulants.