ADHD and Anxiety Medication
People with ADHD often have co-occurring anxiety disorders. adhd medication side effects can trigger irritation, restlessness and trouble sleeping.
Stimulant medications can ease symptoms, but they can also cause side-effects like tics, or slight growth decreases in children and adolescents. Some people also find that their anxiety rises when they take stimulant drugs.
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. You can find them in the form of capsules, tablets or chunky crystals. They are also available in white or brown dust. In large doses, they can cause excessive stimulation, which can cause anxiety, panic, stomach cramps, paranoia and aggression. Long-term stimulant use can result in addiction and serious adverse effects, such as heart issues high pressure, stroke and heart attacks.
The drugs that are commonly prescribed to treat ADHD are also proven to have a track record of relieving the symptoms of anxiety. They improve the supply of brain chemicals norepinephrine and dopamine that are generally lower in those with ADHD. This increases the activity and communication of the parts of the brain that regulate executive and attention functions. This leads to improved impulse control, and anxiety symptoms are reduced.
Both atomoxetine (as well as methylphenidate) reduce anxiety symptoms among adults with ADHD who also have anxiety disorders. Both treatments showed improvement in anxiety symptoms as early as the 4th week of treatment. The benefit was evident for eight weeks.
It is important to note that the type of medication that will be most effective for treating anxiety and ADHD symptoms co-occurring may depend on which condition has the greatest impact on the quality of life of an individual. One may experience numerous mini-crises that cause worry on a regular schedule as they rush to make appointments or complete tasks at school or at work. These can be extremely stressful and might cause them to be anxious on a more frequent basis than the symptoms of a particular phobia or panic attack would.
In these situations the antidepressants, or SSRIs are the best option to treat anxiety-related symptoms. They have been proven effective in the reduction of anxiety levels among adults. They are usually taken orally and may take a bit longer to take effect, 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 utilized in conjunction with cognitive-behavioral treatments for anxiety. They are especially effective for patients who have a racing or elevated heart rate.
SSRIs
Antidepressants, like SSRIs (antidepressant drugs) are frequently used to treat anxiety disorders. The first drug in this category is fluoxetine, also known as Prozac. The SSRIs can also help treat depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder. These drugs are more versatile and have fewer side effects than older generations of antidepressants.
The SSRIs inhibit the reuptake of serotonin at synapses. This causes the neurotransmitter in the synapse to stay active and to signal the post synaptic cells more than would be the case otherwise. This can increase the output of norepinephrine, which may reduce anxiety. This can also increase levels of neuronal cyclicAMP (cAMP) which can stimulate protein synthesis.
Additionally, SSRIs can decrease impulsiveness and reduce hyperactivity. They can also improve the quality of sleep and reduce agitation for some people suffering from ADHD. However, these drugs can, increase the possibility of suicidal behavior and thoughts in some people. They can also cause an increase in appetite and weight gain, especially when they first begin.
Another type of antidepressant known as SNRIs, performs differently than SSRIs. SNRIs hinder the reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine. Similar to SSRIs, they can affect anxiety, but they can also improve the functioning of heart muscle and blood vessels, which may reduce anxiety and stress. adhd medication side effects with bipolar disorder can also benefit from their use.
Duloxetine (Cymbalta), venlafaxine, (Effexor XR, Pristiq) and desvenlafaxine are the most common SNRIs. SNRIs may cause blood pressure to rise in certain people, and those with high blood pressure or heart disease should not take them.
There are many behavioral treatments for anxiety and ADHD that can be used alongside medication. Mindfulness techniques can be helpful in reducing stress and anxiety as can yoga and meditation. Some people have found that tapping on certain points on the body, or Emotional Freedom Techniques, can help reduce the cortisol hormone which causes anxiety. Diet and exercise can also aid in reducing anxiety. Your doctor may recommend eating whole grains, fruits and vegetables and avoid sugar, which can worsen anxiety in some ADHD adults and children.
Non-stimulant-based medications
Although stimulants are extremely effective at treating ADHD and have been extensively studied however they are not the best choice for individuals with coexisting anxiety and ADHD. The stimulant medications can trigger adverse effects like anxiety and jitteriness. These symptoms can be similar to 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 do not cause an increase in heart rate or blood pressure, and they are less likely 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 improves concentration and decrease hyperactivity and impulsivity. It has also been shown to improve anxiety symptoms among adolescents and children with ADHD. Researchers gathered clinical papers from PubMed EMBASE PsycINFO and PsycINFO to determine if atomoxetine reduced anxiety symptoms in children and adolescents with ADHD.
Bupropion is another medication that can ease anxiety symptoms. It 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 address the anxiety first before treating ADHD. This will usually make the anxiety symptoms disappear.
In some instances, anxiety symptoms in ADHD children may be the cause of their anxiety. Psychostimulants and cognitive-behavioral therapy are typically the most effective treatment options for anxiety in this scenario. This is because these treatments tackle the root of the issue and decrease ADHD symptoms and, in turn, decrease the anxiety.
Antidepressants can also be prescribed to patients suffering from 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 right for you. They will consider your lifestyle, symptoms, age and other health issues before suggesting any medication. It is essential to discuss your goals for treatment with your doctor 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 can be beneficial in managing ADHD and anxiety. These include mindfulness meditation yoga (Emotional Freedom techniques), tapping sleep, nutrition, exercise, and healthy eating habits.
People who are anxious are more likely to experience symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, Dr. Hallowell says, which can make it difficult to treat both disorders simultaneously. He typically prescribes stimulants first to address ADHD before turning to non-stimulant medications such as bupropion, atomoxetine or guanfacine to treat anxiety disorders. They are available 24/7 and are not controlled drugs like stimulants.