ADHD and Anxiety Medication
Anxiety disorders are frequently associated with ADHD. Anxiety can cause restlessness sleep disturbance and irritability.
Stimulant medication can help alleviate symptoms, but it may also cause side-effects like tics or slight growth decreases in children and adolescents. Additionally, medication for adult adhd -related issues 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. You can find them in the form of tablets, capsules or chunky crystals. They are also available as a white or brown dust. Large doses can lead to excessive stimulation, which can cause anxiety and stomach cramps, panic as well as paranoia and aggression. The long-term use of stimulants could cause addiction and serious side effects like heart problems as well as high blood pressure and stroke.
These medicines have also been shown to reduce anxiety symptoms. They are effective by boosting brain chemical like norepinephrine, dopamine and serotonin. These are lower in ADHD patients. This increases activity and communication between brain regions that regulate attention and executive function. This results in increased 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. Both treatments showed improvement in anxiety symptoms beginning as early as the 4th week of treatment. The benefits continued for 8 weeks.
It is crucial to keep in mind that the kind of medication that is most effective in treating anxiety and ADHD symptoms that co-occur may depend on which of the conditions has more impact on the quality of life of an individual. One may experience numerous mini-crises that cause worry throughout the day when they have to rush to make appointments or complete projects at work or school. These are stressful and can cause anxiety more frequently than signs of panic attacks or fear.
In these cases the antidepressants, or SSRIs are the best option to treat anxiety-related symptoms. These medications have been proven to be effective in reducing anxiety levels in adults. They are typically taken orally and may take a bit longer to work, but the most common options include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like Sertraline and Fluoxetine, as well as serotonin and norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) such as venlafaxine and duloxetine. These drugs can be used in conjunction with cognitive-behavioral treatment for anxiety. They are especially beneficial for patients who have high or racing heart rate.
SSRIs
Antidepressants, like SSRIs (antidepressant drugs) are commonly used to treat anxiety disorders. The drug that is the most popular in this group is fluoxetine, better known as Prozac. The SSRIs are also effective in treating post-traumatic disorder and obsessive compulsive disorder. These medications are more adaptable and have fewer side negative effects than the older generation of antidepressants.
The SSRIs block the reuptake of serotonin in synapses. This causes the neurotransmitter remain active in the synapse and signal the post-synaptic cell for more times than would otherwise occur. This can boost the output of norepinephrine which may reduce anxiety symptoms. It may also lead to higher levels of the neuronal cyclic AMP (cAMP), which stimulates protein synthesis.
In addition, the SSRIs may reduce impulsivity and reduce hyperactivity. They can also improve sleep quality and decrease agitation for some people with ADHD. However, these medications can increase the likelihood of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in some individuals. They also can increase appetite and weight gain when they first begin.
SNRIs are a different type of antidepressant than SSRIs. SNRIs prevent the reuptake of both serotonin and norepinephrine. They also have an impact on anxiety. They can improve the functioning of both the blood vessels and the heart muscle. This can reduce feelings like anxiety and stress. They can also enhance the mood of people suffering from bipolar disorder.
The most commonly used SNRIs are duloxetine (Cymbalta) and Venlafaxine (Effexor, Effexor XR) and desvenlafaxine (Khedezla, Pristiq). SNRIs may cause blood pressure to rise in certain people, and those with high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease should avoid taking them.
In addition to medication and other treatments, there are a myriad of behavioral therapies that can aid in reducing anxiety and ADHD. Meditation and mindfulness techniques can reduce stress and anxiety. Some people find that tapping specific body points or techniques for emotional freedom helps reduce cortisol which is the hormone responsible for anxiety. Diet and exercise can also aid in reducing anxiety. Your doctor may recommend eating a diet that is based on whole vegetables, fruits and grains and avoiding sugar, which can worsen anxiety in some ADHD children and adults.
Non-stimulant-based medications
While stimulants are extremely effective in treating ADHD, and have been extensively studied, they may not be the best option for those who also suffer from anxiety and ADHD. Stimulant medications may cause side effects like jitteriness, rapid heart rate and nervousness that could resemble or exacerbate anxiety symptoms.
Since 2002, non-stimulant medications have been used for ADHD (under the brand name Strattera). They do not cause an increase in heart rate or blood pressure and are less likely to have anxiety-related side effects such as shaking, sweating, or nervousness.
Atomoxetine targets receptors for the brain chemical norepinephrine. It can aid in improving attention and reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity. 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 if atomoxetine improved anxiety in children and adolescents with ADHD.
Another medication that can be effective in relieving anxiety symptoms is bupropion which targets the brain chemical dopamine. Bupropion is usually recommended for those suffering from co-existing depression and ADHD. It can also improve mood and decrease symptoms of anxiety. It is generally recommended to treat anxiety first before treating ADHD. This can usually help to alleviate the symptoms of anxiety.
It is common for children with ADHD to experience issues with anxiety, and in some instances, the anxiety is caused by their ADHD symptoms. The most effective approach to treat anxiety in these situations is usually cognitive-behavioral therapies and psychostimulants. These treatments can reduce ADHD symptoms and anxiety by addressing the root cause of the issue.
Antidepressants are also frequently prescribed for those with co-existing ADHD and anxiety. SSRI antidepressants that target Serotonin, a chemical in the brain, can help relieve anxiety symptoms and improve mood. Examples include Zoloft, Lexapro and Sertraline.
In the end, the decision on the right medication for you will be determined by your doctor. Before recommending a medication they will take into consideration your lifestyle, symptoms, age, along with other health conditions. It is very important to discuss your goals for treatment with your physician and adhere to a daily schedule while 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 nutrition, exercise, and healthy eating habits.
People who are anxious are more likely to experience symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder according to Dr. Hallowell says, which can make it difficult to treat both disorders at the same time. He typically prescribes stimulants first to address ADHD and then shifts to non-stimulant medications such as bupropion, atomoxetine or guanfacine, for anxiety disorders. These work around the clock and are not controlled substances as stimulants.