ADHD and Anxiety Medication
People suffering from ADHD often have co-occurring anxiety disorders. Anxiety can trigger anxiety, restlessness, and difficulty sleeping.
The use of stimulants can ease these symptoms, but they can also cause side effects such as tics and minor growth reduction in children and adolescents. Additionally, 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 are available in capsules, tablets crystals that are chunky and clear, or a brown or white powder. In large doses, they can cause excessive stimulation, which can cause anxiety and panic, stomach cramps, aggression and paranoia. Long-term use of stimulants may result in addiction and serious adverse effects such as heart problems high pressure, stroke and heart attacks.
The drugs typically prescribed to treat ADHD have also proven track record of relieving the symptoms of anxiety. They help by increasing the amount of brain chemicals norepinephrine and dopamine, which tend to be less in people suffering from ADHD. This boosts the activity and communication between the various parts of the brain that regulate attention and executive functions. This results in an improvement in impulse control, and anxiety symptoms are reduced.
Research has shown that both atomoxetine as well as methylphenidate reduce anxiety symptoms in adults with ADHD and other anxiety disorders. Both medications showed improvement in anxiety symptoms beginning as early as the 4th week of treatment. The benefit was evident for eight weeks.
It is crucial to remember that the type of medication that may be best for treating anxiety and ADHD co-occurring symptoms could depend on which disorder is more affecting a person's quality of life. An individual may experience many small-scale crises that cause anxiety throughout the day as they try to meet appointments or finish projects at work or school. These are stressful and trigger anxiety more often than symptoms of panic attacks or phobia.
In these situations antidepressants or SSRIs are the best choice to combat anxiety-related symptoms. These medications have been proven effective at the reduction of anxiety levels among adults. They are administered orally and can take a long time to take effect. The most commonly used choices are selective serotonin inhibits (SSRIs), such as Sertraline, Fluoxetine and serotonin and norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitions (SNRIs) like venlafaxine, and duloxetine. These can be taken alongside cognitive-behavioral therapy for anxiety and are especially useful if the patient experiences an elevated heart rate or blood pressure.
SSRIs
SSRIs which are antidepressant medications, are often used to treat anxiety disorders. Prozac, the prototype drug of this group is fluoxetine. The SSRIs are also able to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder. These medications are more adaptable and have less side effects than older generations of antidepressants.
The SSRIs block serotonin's reuptake at synapses. This causes the neurotransmitter to remain active in the synapse and signal the post-synaptic cells more often than would otherwise occur. This may increase the output of norepinephrine, which may reduce anxiety. It could also result in an increase in the levels of neuronal cyclic AMP (cAMP) which can stimulate protein synthesis.
SSRIs can also reduce the amount of impulsivity and hyperactivity. They also can improve sleep quality and reduce agitation in some people with ADHD. However, these drugs can increase the possibility of suicidal behavior and thoughts among some people. They can also trigger an increase in appetite and weight gain, particularly when they are first introduced.
The SNRIs are a distinct type of antidepressant than SSRIs. SNRIs prevent the reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine. They can also have an impact on anxiety. They can improve the functioning of both the blood vessels and the heart muscle. This can help reduce feelings of anxiety and stress. Certain people with bipolar disorder also benefit from their use.
The most popular SNRIs are duloxetine (Cymbalta), venlafaxine (Effexor, Effexor XR) and desvenlafaxine (Khedezla, Pristiq). The SNRIs can raise blood pressure in some people and should not be taken by those with high blood pressure or cardiovascular disease.
There are many behavioral treatments for anxiety and ADHD that can be employed alongside medication. Mindfulness-based techniques can be beneficial in reducing anxiety and stress as can yoga and meditation. Some people find tapping on certain body points, or Emotional Freedom techniques, helps lower cortisol, the hormone that causes anxiety. Exercise and diet can reduce anxiety. Your doctor may recommend eating whole vegetables, fruits and grains and avoiding sugar, which can increase anxiety in some ADHD children and adults.
Non-stimulant-based drugs
Although stimulants are highly effective in treating ADHD and have been extensively studied but they are not the best option for those who suffer from anxiety and ADHD. Stimulant medication can cause adverse effects like jitteriness and rapid heart rate. These symptoms can be similar to or worsen anxiety symptoms.
Since 2002, non-stimulant drugs are being used to treat ADHD (under the brand name Strattera). They do not increase blood pressure or heart rate, and are less likely than stimulant medications to cause anxiety-related side effects like shaking, sweating, or nervousness.
Atomoxetine is a drug that targets receptors for norepinephrine. It is a brain chemical that can enhance attention and reduce the impulsivity and hyperactivity. It has also been shown to improve anxiety symptoms among children and adolescents with ADHD. Researchers collected clinical articles from PubMed EMBASE PsycINFO and PsycINFO to determine whether atomoxetine improved anxiety symptoms among children and adolescents with ADHD.
Bupropion is another medication that can alleviate anxiety symptoms. It is a brain chemical dopamine. Bupropion is usually prescribed to those suffering from ADHD and depression. It can website also improve mood and lessen symptoms of anxiety. It is generally recommended to investigate and treat the root cause of anxiety before treating the ADHD since it will typically reduce anxiety symptoms.
In some instances, anxiety symptoms in ADHD children can be the source of their anxiety. The most effective treatment for anxiety in these situations is usually cognitive-behavioral therapy and psychostimulants. This is because these treatments will address the root of the problem and help reduce ADHD symptoms, which will consequently, decrease anxiety.
Antidepressants are also often prescribed to people with co-existing ADHD and anxiety. SSRI antidepressants, that target serotonin, a brain chemical, can help to relieve anxiety symptoms and improve mood. Examples include Zoloft Lexapro and Sertraline.
In the end, the decision on which medication is best for you will be decided by your physician. They will consider your symptoms, lifestyle and age as well as other health issues before recommending any medication. It is crucial to discuss with your doctor your treatment goals and to stick to a daily routine while taking any medication.
Other options
Other treatment options could be beneficial in managing ADHD or anxiety, depending on your health goals. These include mindfulness yoga, meditation yoga, 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 ADHD, Dr. Hallowell says, which makes it difficult to treat both conditions simultaneously. He prescribes stimulants to treat ADHD first, and then non-stimulant medications like atomoxetine or bupropion for anxiety disorders. They are available 24/7 and are not controlled substances as stimulants.