ADHD and Anxiety Medication
Anxiety disorders are frequently associated with ADHD. Anxiety can trigger restlessness, irritability and trouble sleeping.
Stimulant medication can help ease these symptoms However, they can cause side effects such as tics and minor growth reduction in adolescents and children. Some people also notice that their anxiety rises when they take stimulant medication.
Stimulants
Stimulants are a class of drugs used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and the condition known as 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 the form of tablets, capsules or chunky crystals. They are also available as a brown or white dust. Large doses can lead to over-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 problems high pressure, stroke and heart attacks.
The drugs typically prescribed to treat ADHD are also proven to have a track record for alleviating the symptoms of anxiety. They are effective by boosting brain chemical like dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin. These are lower in ADHD patients. This boosts the activity and communication of the parts of the brain which control executive and attention functions. This results in an improvement in impulse control, and anxiety symptoms decrease.
Studies have demonstrated that both atomoxetine as well as methylphenidate reduce anxiety symptoms in adults suffering from ADHD and other anxiety disorders. The improvement in anxiety symptoms was evident as early as the fourth week of treatment for both medications, and the benefit was sustained through 8 weeks of treatment.
It is crucial to keep in mind that the kind of medication that is most effective for treating anxiety and ADHD symptoms co-occurring may depend on which disorder has the greatest impact on the quality of life of an individual. For instance, someone might experience a lot of worry-inducing mini-crises on a regular basis while they rush to schedule appointments or to keep track of work or school. These can be stressful and trigger anxiety more often than symptoms of panic attacks or anxiety.
In these cases it is possible to treat anxiety-related symptoms with antidepressants or SSRIs that have been proven effective in reducing anxiety levels in adults. They are usually taken orally and can take a little longer to effect the desired effects, however the most commonly used 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 medications can be used in conjunction with cognitive-behavioral treatments for anxiety. They are particularly useful for patients who have high or racing heart rate.
SSRIs
SSRIs, which are antidepressant medications are frequently used to treat anxiety disorders. Prozac is the drug that was developed as the prototype of this class, is fluoxetine. The SSRIs are also effective in treating obsessive-compulsive disorder and post-traumatic disorder. These medications are more adaptable and have less adverse effects than older generations of antidepressants.
The SSRIs work by inhibiting serotonin's reuptake at synapses. This causes the neurotransmitter inside the synapse and communicate with the post synaptic cell more than is the case with other neurotransmitters. This may increase the output of norepinephrine and reduce anxiety. 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 also can improve sleep quality and decrease the agitation of some people with ADHD. However, these medications can increase the likelihood of suicidal thoughts and behavior in certain individuals. They may also increase appetite and weight gain when they first begin.
Another type of antidepressant known as SNRIs, functions differently than the SSRIs. SNRIs block the reuptake both of serotonin as well as norepinephrine. Like SSRIs, they can influence anxiety, but they can also improve the functioning of the heart muscle and the blood vessels, which could reduce anxiety and stress. Certain people with bipolar disorder can also benefit from their use.
Duloxetine (Cymbalta) Venlafaxine, Duloxetine (Cymbalta), (Effexor XR, Pristiq) and desvenlafaxine are the most popular SNRIs. The SNRIs may raise blood pressure in certain individuals therefore they should not be used by those with high blood pressure or cardiovascular disease.
In addition to medication in addition, there are a variety of behavioral therapies that can aid in reducing anxiety and ADHD. Meditation and mindfulness techniques can help reduce stress and anxiety. Some people find tapping specific body parts, or Emotional Freedom techniques helps reduce cortisol which is the hormone that causes anxiety. Exercise and diet can aid in reducing anxiety. Your doctor can recommend a diet of whole vegetables, fruits and grains and avoiding sugar, which can cause anxiety in certain ADHD children and adults.
Non-stimulant-based medications
While stimulants are highly effective in treating ADHD and have been studied extensively, they are not always the best choice for individuals who suffer from anxiety and ADHD. The stimulant medications can trigger negative side effects, such as increased heart rate and jitteriness. These symptoms can mirror or worsen symptoms of anxiety.
Since 2002, non-stimulant drugs are being used to treat ADHD (under the brand name Strattera). They don't increase blood pressure or heart rate, and they are less likely to suffer anxiety-related adverse effects like shaking, sweating or nervousness.
Atomoxetine targets receptors for the brain chemical norepinephrine. It can aid in improving attention and reduce impulsivity as well as hyperactivity. Studies have also shown that it can help improve anxiety symptoms in children and adolescents with ADHD. Researchers gathered clinical articles from PubMed, EMBASE and PsycINFO to determine whether atomoxetine helped reduce anxiety in adolescents and children with ADHD.
Bupropion is another medication that can alleviate anxiety symptoms. It targets the brain chemical, dopamine. Bupropion is often prescribed to patients suffering from ADHD and depression. It can also help improve mood and decrease symptoms of anxiety. It is generally a good idea to try and treat the root cause of anxiety before treating the ADHD because it can reduce anxiety symptoms.
In certain cases anxiety symptoms in ADHD children are the cause of their anxiety. The most effective approach to treat anxiety in these situations is usually cognitive-behavioral therapy as well as psychostimulants. adhd medication for adults uk is because these treatments will target the root of the issue and reduce ADHD symptoms which, consequently, decrease anxiety.
Antidepressants can also be prescribed to those who have ADHD and anxiety. SSRI antidepressants, that target serotonin, a brain chemical can aid in reducing anxiety symptoms and improve mood. Examples include Zoloft, Lexapro and Sertraline.
In the end, the decision on the right medication for you will be decided by your physician. They will take a look at your symptoms, lifestyle and age as well as other health conditions before making a recommendation for any medication. It is crucial to discuss your goals for treatment with your physician and adhere to a regular schedule when taking any medication.
Other options
Depending on your unique health goals, there are a variety of treatment options that may also help you manage ADHD and anxiety. These include mindfulness meditation and yoga (Emotional Freedom techniques) tapping and sleeping, nutrition, exercise, and healthy eating habits.
Dr. Hallowell says that people with anxiety are more prone to develop symptoms of ADHD, which makes it difficult to treat both conditions simultaneously. He typically prescribes stimulants first to treat ADHD and then shifts to non-stimulant medications like bupropion, atomoxetine, or guanfacine, for anxiety disorders. These medications work 24 hours a day and are not controlled substances similar to stimulants.