ADHD and Anxiety Medication
People suffering from ADHD frequently suffer from co-occurring anxiety disorders. Anxiety can cause irritation, restlessness, and difficulty sleeping.
Stimulant medications can help alleviate these symptoms however, they may also result in side effects like the development of tics and minor reduction in growth in adolescents and children. Many people also experience their anxiety rises when they take stimulant drugs.
Stimulants
Stimulants can be used to treat 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. You can find them in the form of tablets, capsules or chunky crystals. They are also available in white or brown dust. Massive doses of stimulants may create over-stimulation and cause anxiety, panic attacks, stomach cramps or paranoia. Long-term use of stimulants can 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 are also proven to have a track record of alleviating symptoms of anxiety. They help by increasing the amount of brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine which are typically lower in those with ADHD. This improves communication and activity between brain regions that control attention and executive function. This leads to increased impulse control and anxiety symptoms decrease.
Both atomoxetine (as as methylphenidate) reduce anxiety symptoms in adults with ADHD who also have anxiety disorders. Both drugs showed improvement in anxiety symptoms beginning as early as the 4th week of treatment. The benefits was evident for eight weeks.
It is crucial to remember that the type of medication that is most effective for treating anxiety and ADHD co-occurring symptoms might depend on which disorder has a larger impact on a person's quality of life. For example, an individual might be prone to frequent worry-inducing mini-crises on a regular basis while they rush to make appointments or try to stay on top of projects for work or school. These can be distressing and can cause anxiety more frequently than signs of a panic attack or fear.
In these instances, it might be best to address the anxiety-related symptoms with antidepressants or SSRIs, which have been proven effective in reducing anxiety levels in adults. They are taken orally and may take a while to work. The most commonly used choices are selective serotonin inhibits (SSRIs), such as Sertraline Serotonin, Fluoxetine and norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitions (SNRIs) like duloxetine and venlafaxine. These drugs can be used together with cognitive-behavioral therapy for anxiety. They are particularly useful when a patient is suffering from high or racing heart rate.
SSRIs
SSRIs which are antidepressants are commonly used to treat anxiety disorders. Prozac is the first drug of this class is fluoxetine. The SSRIs can also help treat depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder. They are more adaptable and have less side negative effects than the older generation of antidepressants.
The SSRIs inhibit the reuptake serotonin in synapses. This causes the neurotransmitter in the synapse and communicate with the post synaptic cell more frequently than would be the case in other circumstances. This can increase the production of norepinephrine and reduce anxiety. This can also increase levels of neuronal cyclicAMP (cAMP), stimulating protein synthesis.
Additionally, SSRIs can decrease impulsiveness and reduce hyperactivity. They can also improve sleep quality and decrease agitation for some people with ADHD. These drugs can, however increase the risk of suicidal behavior and thoughts among some people. They can also cause an increase in appetite and weight gain, especially when they are first introduced.
The SNRIs are a distinct type of antidepressant than SSRIs. SNRIs block the reuptake of serotonin as well as norepinephrine. Like SSRIs they may influence anxiety, but they can also improve the functioning of the heart muscle and the blood vessels, which can reduce anxiety and stress. They also can enhance the mood of people suffering from bipolar disorder.
Duloxetine (Cymbalta), venlafaxine, (Effexor XR, Pristiq) and desvenlafaxine are the most common SNRIs. SNRIs could cause blood pressure to rise in some people, so those who suffer from high blood pressure and heart disease should not take these medications.
There are many treatment options for anxiety and ADHD that can be employed in addition to medication. Meditation and mindfulness techniques can help reduce stress and anxiety. Some people find that tapping specific body parts or techniques for emotional freedom, helps lower cortisol which is the hormone that causes anxiety. Exercise and diet can aid in reducing anxiety. Your doctor may recommend that you eat whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, and to avoid sugar, as it can increase anxiety for some ADHD children and adults.
Non-stimulant based medications
Although stimulants are highly effective in treating ADHD and have been extensively researched but they are not the best choice for those who also suffer from anxiety or ADHD. These medications can cause adverse effects like anxiety and jitteriness. These symptoms can mirror or worsen symptoms of anxiety.
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 heart rate or blood pressure, and they are less likely to have anxiety-related side effects such as shaking, sweating or nervousness.
Atomoxetine targets receptors for the brain chemical norepinephrine and can help improve attention and reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity. It has also been found to improve anxiety symptoms among adolescents and children with ADHD. Researchers gathered articles on clinical research from PubMed, EMBASE and PsycINFO to determine whether atomoxetine reduced anxiety in adolescents and children with ADHD.
Bupropion is a different medication that can ease anxiety symptoms. It targets the brain chemical dopamine. Bupropion is typically prescribed to patients suffering from ADHD and depression. It can also improve moods and decrease symptoms of anxiety. It is usually best to address the anxiety first before tackling ADHD. This will typically reduce the anxiety symptoms.
medication for adhd adults is common for kids with ADHD to suffer from anxiety, and in a few cases the anxiety is actually caused by their ADHD symptoms. Psychostimulants and cognitive-behavioral therapy are usually the most effective methods to treat anxiety in this situation. This is because these treatments will address the root of the issue and help reduce ADHD symptoms which, in turn, decrease the anxiety.
Antidepressants may also be prescribed to those who have ADHD and anxiety. SSRI antidepressants, which target serotonin, a brain chemical, can help to relieve 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 before suggesting any medication. It is essential to discuss your treatment goals with your physician and adhere to a routine daily while taking any medication.
Other options
Other treatment options may be beneficial in managing ADHD or anxiety, based on your health goals. These include mindfulness meditation and yoga (Emotional Freedom techniques), tapping, sleep nutrition, exercise and healthy eating habits.
People who are anxious are more likely to suffer from symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder Dr. Hallowell says, which can make it challenging to treat both disorders at the same time. He typically prescribes stimulants first to address ADHD before turning to non-stimulant medications like atomoxetine, bupropion, or guanfacine for anxiety disorders. These medications are used throughout the day and are not controlled substances as stimulants.