ADHD and Anxiety Medication
Anxiety disorders can be associated with ADHD. Anxiety can lead to irritation, restlessness and trouble sleeping.
The use of stimulants can ease symptoms, but they can also cause side-effects like tics, or slight growth decreases in adolescents and children. In addition, some people experience anxiety-related issues when taking stimulant medication.
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. They are available in capsules, tablets crystals that are chunky and clear, 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 result in addiction and serious side effects like heart problems, high pressure and stroke.
These medicines have also been shown to alleviate anxiety symptoms. They help by increasing the supply of brain chemicals norepinephrine and dopamine that are generally less in people suffering from ADHD. This increases the activity and communication of the parts of the brain that control executive and attention functions. This leads to increased control of impulses and anxiety symptoms decreasing.
Research has shown that both atomoxetine and the methylphenidate reduce anxiety symptoms in people with ADHD and comorbid anxiety disorders. The improvement in anxiety symptoms was evident as early as the fourth week of treatment for both drugs and the benefits were sustained through 8 weeks of treatment.
It is crucial to keep in mind that the kind of medication that is most effective in treating anxiety and ADHD symptoms co-occurring may depend on which condition is more detrimental to the quality of life of a person. For instance, someone might experience a lot of worry-inducing mini-crises on a regular basis when they have to make appointments or try to stay on top of work or school. These can be distressing and trigger anxiety more often than signs of panic attacks or fear.
In these instances the antidepressants, or SSRIs are the best choice to treat anxiety-related symptoms. These drugs have been proven effective at the reduction of anxiety levels among adults. They are taken orally and may take a while to begin working. The most commonly used options are selective serotonin inhibits (SSRIs), such as Sertraline Serotonin, Fluoxetine and norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitions (SNRIs) which include venlafaxine, and duloxetine. They can be used as a supplement to cognitive-behavioral treatment for anxiety, and are particularly useful when a patient is suffering from a racing heart or elevated blood pressure.
SSRIs
SSRIs are antidepressant drugs, are often used to treat anxiety disorders. The first drug in this group is fluoxetine, also known as Prozac. The SSRIs are also effective in treating obsessive compulsive disorder, and post-traumatic disorder. They are more adaptable and have fewer side effects than older generations of antidepressants.
The SSRIs block the reuptake of serotonin at synapses. This causes the neurotransmitter in the synapse to stay active and signal the post synaptic cell more frequently than would be the case otherwise. This may increase the amount of norepinephrine released which reduces anxiety symptoms. It can also increase the levels of neuronal cyclicAMP (cAMP) which can stimulate the synthesis of proteins.
SSRIs can also reduce the impulsivity and hyperactivity. They can also improve the quality of sleep and reduce agitation for some people suffering from ADHD. However, these drugs can increase the risk of suicidal behaviour and thoughts among some people. They can also increase appetite and weight gain at the beginning of treatment.
Another kind of antidepressant, called SNRIs, works differently than the SSRIs. SNRIs block the reuptake of serotonin as well as norepinephrine. Like SSRIs they may influence anxiety, but they also improve the functioning of the heart muscle and blood vessels, which may reduce feelings of anxiety and stress. They can also improve the mood of some people suffering from bipolar disorder.
Duloxetine (Cymbalta), venlafaxine, (Effexor XR, Pristiq) and desvenlafaxine are the most popular SNRIs. The SNRIs can increase blood pressure in certain individuals therefore they should not be used by those suffering from high blood pressure or cardiovascular disease.
There are many treatment options for anxiety and ADHD that can be used alongside medication. Mindfulness techniques can be helpful in lowering stress and anxiety, as can practicing yoga and meditation. Some people find that tapping on specific points of the body, or Emotional Freedom Techniques can help reduce the cortisol hormone that creates anxiety. Exercise and diet can help reduce anxiety. Your doctor may recommend you eat whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, and stay away from here sugar as it can cause anxiety in some ADHD children and adults.
Non-stimulant-based medications
Although stimulants are highly effective in treating ADHD and have been extensively studied, they may not be the best choice for those who suffer from anxiety or ADHD. The stimulant medications can trigger side effects such as jitteriness and rapid heart rate. These symptoms can mimic or worsen anxiety symptoms.
Since 2002, non-stimulant medicines have been prescribed for 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 such as sweating, shaking, or nervousness.
Atomoxetine is a drug that targets receptors for norepinephrine. It is a brain chemical that improves concentration and decrease the impulsivity and hyperactivity. Studies have also demonstrated that it is effective in reducing anxiety symptoms in adolescents and children with ADHD. Researchers gathered clinical articles from PubMed EMBASE PsycINFO and PsycINFO in order to determine if atomoxetine reduced anxiety symptoms among children and adolescents with ADHD.
Bupropion is a different medication that can ease anxiety symptoms. It targets the brain chemical, dopamine. Bupropion is usually recommended for people with co-occurring depression and ADHD. It can also improve mood and lessen anxiety symptoms. It is usually recommended to investigate and treat the root anxiety-related issue before treating the ADHD since it can make anxiety symptoms disappear.
In certain cases anxiety symptoms in ADHD children may be the cause of their anxiety. The most effective method of treating anxiety in these circumstances is usually cognitive-behavioral therapy and psychostimulants. These treatments can help reduce ADHD symptoms and anxiety by addressing the root causes of the problem.
Antidepressants are also often prescribed to those suffering from co-existing ADHD and anxiety. SSRI antidepressants, that target the brain chemical serotonin can aid in reducing anxiety symptoms and improve mood. Examples include Zoloft Lexapro, and Sertraline.
The final decision of the right medication for you will be decided by your doctor. They will take a look at your symptoms, lifestyle and age as well as other health conditions prior to suggesting any medication. It is essential to discuss with your doctor your goals for treatment and to adhere to a daily routine when taking any medication.
Other options
Based on your individual health objectives, there are additional treatment options that can be helpful for managing ADHD and anxiety. These include mindfulness, meditation, yoga, tapping (Emotional Freedom Techniques) sleep and nutrition, as well as exercise and healthy eating habits.
People who are anxious are more likely to experience symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, Dr. Hallowell says, which makes it difficult to treat both disorders at once. He typically prescribes stimulants to treat ADHD, and then turns to non-stimulant drugs like bupropion, atomoxetine, or guanfacine for anxiety disorders. These medications are available 24/7 and are not controlled substances similar to stimulants.