ADHD and Anxiety Medication

People with ADHD often have co-occurring anxiety disorders. Anxiety can cause restlessness anxiety, and insomnia.

Stimulant medication can help ease these symptoms, but they can also result in side effects like small growth reductions and tics in adolescents and children. In addition, some people find their anxiety worsens when taking stimulant medications.

Stimulants

Stimulants are 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 can be found in tablets, capsules, chunky clear crystals or a white or brown powder. Massive doses of stimulants may cause over-stimulation and result in anxiety panic attacks, stomach cramps or paranoia. Long-term use of stimulants can result in addiction and serious adverse effects such as heart problems stroke, high pressure and heart problems.

They have also been proven to relieve anxiety symptoms. They are effective by boosting brain chemical like norepinephrine, dopamine and serotonin. They are less in ADHD patients. This boosts activity and communication between parts of the brain that regulate attention and executive function. This leads to improved impulse control, and anxiety symptoms diminish.

Both atomoxetine (as as well as methylphenidate) reduce anxiety symptoms among adults with ADHD who also suffer from anxiety disorders. Improvement in anxiety symptoms was observed in the first week of treatment for both drugs and the benefits were sustained through 8 weeks of treatment.

It is crucial to remember that the kind of medication most effective in treating anxiety and ADHD co-occurring symptoms might depend on which condition is more affecting a person's quality of life. An individual may experience many minor crises that create anxiety in a regular manner as they rush to make appointments or keep up with tasks at school or at work. These can be extremely stressful and can cause them to be anxious on more of a frequently basis than the symptoms of a specific anxiety disorder or panic attack would.

In these instances it may be beneficial to address the anxiety-related symptoms with antidepressants or SSRIs which have been proven to be effective in reducing anxiety levels in adults. These are taken orally, and may take some time to work. The most common choices are selective serotonin inhibits (SSRIs), such as Sertraline Serotonin, Fluoxetine, norepinephrine reuptake inhibitions (SNRIs) like duloxetine, venlafaxine and. These drugs can be used in conjunction with cognitive-behavioral treatments for anxiety. They are especially beneficial when a patient is suffering from an elevated or racing heart rate.

SSRIs

SSRIs are antidepressant drugs are commonly used to treat anxiety disorders. Prozac is the first drug of this class, is fluoxetine. The SSRIs can also aid in treating depression, obsessive compulsive disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder. These drugs are more versatile and have less adverse negative effects than the older generation of antidepressants.

The SSRIs work by inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin at synapses. This causes the neurotransmitter remain active in the synapse, and to signal the post-synaptic cells more often than it would normally. This can increase the production of norepinephrine, which may reduce anxiety. It can also lead to higher levels of the neuronal cyclicAMP (cAMP), which stimulates protein production.

SSRIs also reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity. They can also improve sleep quality and reduce the agitation of some people with ADHD. These medications can, however, increase the possibility of suicidal behavior and thoughts in certain people. They can also trigger an increase in appetite and weight gain, especially when they first begin.

Another type of antidepressant known as SNRIs, performs differently than SSRIs. SNRIs prevent the reuptake of serotonin as well as 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. They can also enhance the mood of adults with bipolar disorder.

Duloxetine (Cymbalta) Venlafaxine, Duloxetine (Cymbalta), (Effexor XR, Pristiq) and desvenlafaxine are the most common SNRIs. SNRIs may cause blood pressure to increase in certain individuals, so people with high blood pressure or heart disease should not take them.

There are a variety of behavioral treatments for anxiety and ADHD that can be utilized in addition to medication. Meditation and mindfulness techniques can help reduce anxiety and stress. Some people have found that tapping on specific points of the body, or Emotional Freedom Techniques can help reduce the cortisol hormone which creates anxiety. Diet and exercise can also help reduce anxiety. Your doctor may suggest that you eat whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, and avoid sugar, since it can cause anxiety in certain ADHD children and adults.

Non-stimulant-based drugs

While stimulants are very effective at treating ADHD and have been extensively studied, they are not always the best choice for people who suffer from anxiety and ADHD. The stimulant medications prescribed for adhd can trigger side effects such as jitteriness and rapid heart rate. These symptoms can be similar to or worsen symptoms of anxiety.

Since 2002, non-stimulant medications have been used for ADHD (under the brand name Strattera). They do not cause an increase in heart rate or blood pressure and are less likely to have anxiety-related side effects such as shaking, sweating, or nervousness.

Atomoxetine targets receptors for norepinephrine, a brain chemical that can enhance concentration and decrease the impulsivity and hyperactivity. Studies have also proven that it is effective in reducing anxiety symptoms in children and adolescents with ADHD. Researchers gathered clinical articles from PubMed EMBASE PsycINFO and PsycINFO in order to determine if atomoxetine decreased anxiety symptoms among children and adolescents with ADHD.

Bupropion is another medication that can ease anxiety symptoms. It targets the brain chemical, dopamine. Bupropion is typically prescribed to those suffering from ADHD and depression. It can also improve mood and decrease anxiety symptoms. It is often best to address the anxiety first before treating ADHD. This will usually reduce the anxiety symptoms.

In some instances anxiety symptoms in ADHD children can be the source of their anxiety. The most effective method of treating anxiety in these situations is usually cognitive-behavioral therapy and psychostimulants. This is because these treatments will target the root cause of the problem and decrease ADHD symptoms which, in turn, reduce anxiety.

Antidepressants may also be prescribed to those who have ADHD and anxiety. SSRI antidepressants that target Serotonin, a chemical in the brain, can alleviate anxiety symptoms and improve mood. Examples include Zoloft Lexapro and Sertraline.

The final decision of which medication is best for you will be made by your doctor. They will look at your symptoms, lifestyle and age as well as other health issues before recommending any medication. It is essential to discuss your goals for treatment with your doctor and adhere to a routine daily while taking any medication.

Other options

Based on your individual health goals, there are other treatment options that may also help you manage ADHD and anxiety. These include mindfulness meditation, tapping (Emotional Freedom Techniques) sleep nutrition, exercise, and healthy eating habits.

Dr. Hallowell says that people who suffer from anxiety are more likely to develop symptoms of ADHD, which makes it difficult to treat both conditions simultaneously. He usually prescribes stimulants first to address ADHD and then shifts to non-stimulant medications such as atomoxetine, bupropion, or guanfacine, for anxiety disorders. These medications work 24/7 and are not controlled substances, as stimulants are.