ADHD and Anxiety Medication
People suffering from ADHD typically suffer from co-occurring anxiety disorders. Anxiety can trigger restlessness, irritability, and difficulty sleeping.
Stimulant medications can help alleviate these symptoms However, they can result in side effects like small growth reductions and tics in adolescents and children. Many people also experience their anxiety rises when they take stimulant drugs.
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 can be found in tablets, capsules crystals that are chunky and clear, or a white or brown powder. The use of large doses can result in over-stimulation, resulting in anxiety, panic, stomach cramps, aggression and paranoia. Long-term use of stimulants may cause addiction and serious side effects, such as heart problems high blood pressure, heart problems and stroke.
The medications that are typically prescribed to treat ADHD have also proven track record for alleviating the symptoms of anxiety. They help by boosting brain chemicals like norepinephrine, dopamine and serotonin. These are lower in ADHD patients. This improves the activity and communication of the parts of the brain that regulate executive and attention functions. This leads to 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 suffering from ADHD and other anxiety disorders. The improvement in anxiety symptoms was evident in the first week of treatment for both drugs, and the benefit was sustained through 8 weeks of treatment.
It is crucial to keep in mind that the type of medication that will be most effective in treating anxiety and ADHD symptoms that co-occur may depend on which disorder has more impact on a person’s quality of living. One may experience numerous mini-crises that cause worry on a regular schedule as they rush to make appointments or finish tasks at school or at work. These can be stressful and cause anxiety more often than symptoms of a panic attack or fear.
In these instances, it might be best to address the anxiety-related symptoms with antidepressants or SSRIs that have been proven effective in decreasing anxiety levels in adults. They are taken orally and may take some time to begin working. The most commonly used choices are selective serotonin inhibits (SSRIs), such as Sertraline Serotonin, Fluoxetine and norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitions (SNRIs) which include venlafaxine, and duloxetine. They can be used alongside cognitive-behavioral therapy for anxiety, and are particularly useful if the patient experiences high blood pressure.
SSRIs
SSRIs, which are antidepressant drugs are frequently used to treat anxiety disorders. The first drug in this group is fluoxetine, better 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 hinder the reuptake of serotonin at synapses. This causes the neurotransmitter remain active in the synapse, and to signal the post-synaptic cell for more times than it would normally. This may increase the output of norepinephrine, which may reduce anxiety. It can also lead to increased levels of the neuronal cyclicAMP (cAMP) which can stimulate protein synthesis.
They also decrease the impulsivity and hyperactivity. They also can improve sleep quality and decrease agitation for some people with ADHD. These medications can, however increase the risk of suicidal behaviour and thoughts among some people. They may also cause an increase in appetite and weight gain, particularly when they first begin.
The SNRIs are a distinct type of antidepressant compared to SSRIs. SNRIs block the reuptake of both serotonin and norepinephrine. Like SSRIs, they can influence anxiety, but they also improve the functioning of heart muscle and the blood vessels, which can reduce anxiety and stress. Certain people with bipolar disorder also benefit from their use.
Duloxetine (Cymbalta) Venlafaxine, Duloxetine (Cymbalta), (Effexor XR, Pristiq) and desvenlafaxine are the most popular SNRIs. SNRIs may cause blood pressure to rise in some people, so people with high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease should avoid taking them.
There are many treatment options for anxiety and ADHD that can be utilized alongside medication. Mindfulness techniques can be helpful in lowering stress and anxiety, as can practicing yoga and meditation. Some people find tapping certain body points or Emotional Freedom techniques can help lower cortisol levels which is the hormone that causes anxiety. Diet and exercise can also help reduce anxiety. Your doctor may recommend you consume whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, and avoid sugar, since it can increase anxiety for certain ADHD children and adults.
add medication adult -stimulant-based medications
Although stimulants are extremely effective at treating ADHD and have been extensively studied, they are not always the best option for those who suffer from anxiety and ADHD. Stimulant medication can cause adverse effects like anxiety and jitteriness. These symptoms can mimic or worsen anxiety symptoms.
Non-stimulant medications are a more recent option that has been used to treat ADHD since 2002 (under the brand name Strattera). They don't increase blood pressure or heart rate, and they are less likely to cause anxiety-related side effects like shaking, sweating or nervousness.
Atomoxetine targets receptors for the brain chemical norepinephrine. It can help improve attention and reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity. It has also been found to improve anxiety symptoms among children and adolescents with ADHD. Researchers collected clinical articles from PubMed, EMBASE and PsycINFO to determine if atomoxetine improved anxiety in adolescents and children with ADHD.
Bupropion is another drug that can ease anxiety symptoms. It is a brain chemical, dopamine. Bupropion is often recommended for those suffering from coexisting depression and ADHD. It can also improve mood and decrease symptoms of anxiety. It is often a good idea to try and treat the underlying cause of anxiety before treating the ADHD, as that will usually reduce anxiety symptoms.
In some cases anxiety symptoms in ADHD children may be the cause of their anxiety. Cognitive-behavioral treatment and psychostimulants are usually the most effective methods to treat anxiety in this scenario. These treatments will reduce ADHD symptoms and anxiety by addressing the root causes of the problem.
Antidepressants are often prescribed for those with co-existing ADHD and anxiety. SSRI antidepressants that target Serotonin, the chemical in the brain that is thought to help relieve anxiety symptoms and improve mood. Examples include Zoloft Lexapro and Sertraline.
Your doctor will ultimately decide which medication is most suitable for you. Before recommending a drug, they will take into consideration your symptoms, lifestyle and age, along with other health conditions. It is crucial to discuss your treatment goals with your doctor and adhere to a routine daily while taking any medication.
Other options
Other options for treatment may be beneficial to manage ADHD or anxiety, depending on your health goals. These include mindfulness meditation, yoga (Emotional Freedom techniques), tapping and sleeping and nutrition, exercise and healthy eating habits.
Dr. Hallowell says that people with anxiety are more prone to develop symptoms of ADHD, making it difficult to treat both conditions at the same time. He prescribes stimulants to treat ADHD first, then non-stimulant medication like bupropion or atomoxetine to treat anxiety disorders. These work around the clock and are not controlled drugs like stimulants.