ADHD and Anxiety Medication

Anxiety disorders can be associated with ADHD. Anxiety can lead to irritation, restlessness and sleeplessness.

Stimulant medication can help ease these symptoms However, they can cause side effects such as small growth reductions and tics in adolescents and children. Some people also notice that their anxiety levels increase when they are taking stimulant drugs.

Stimulants

Stimulants are drugs that are 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. They can be found in capsules, tablets crystals that are chunky and clear, or a white or brown powder. Large doses can lead to excessive stimulation, resulting in anxiety and stomach cramps, panic, paranoia and aggression. Long-term stimulant use can result in addiction and serious adverse effects, such as heart issues, high pressure and stroke.

The drugs that are commonly prescribed to treat ADHD have also proven track record of alleviating symptoms of anxiety. They help by increasing the availability of the brain chemicals norepinephrine and dopamine, which tend to be lower in people with ADHD. This increases the activity and communication of parts of the brain which control executive and attention functions. This leads to increased control of impulses and anxiety symptoms diminishing.

Research has shown that both atomoxetine and the methylphenidate reduce anxiety symptoms in adults 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 continued for 8 weeks of treatment.

It is important to note that the type of medication that is most effective for treating anxiety and ADHD symptoms co-occurring may depend on which disorder is more detrimental to the quality of life of an individual. For instance, a person might be prone to frequent anxiety-inducing episodes on a regular basis as they rush around to make appointments or try to stay on top of work or school. They can be extremely distressing and cause people to be anxious on more of a frequently basis than the symptoms of a particular anxiety or panic attack.

In these instances it is possible to treat 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 can take a long time to work. The most popular options are selective serotonin reuptake inhibits (SSRIs), such as Sertraline Serotonin, Fluoxetine, norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) like duloxetine, venlafaxine and. These drugs can be utilized together with cognitive-behavioral therapy for anxiety. They are especially beneficial for patients who have a racing or elevated heart rate.

SSRIs

SSRIs are antidepressant medications, are often 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. These drugs are more versatile and have less adverse negative effects than the older generation of antidepressants.

The SSRIs hinder the reuptake of serotonin at synapses. This causes the neurotransmitter to remain active within the synapse and communicate with the post-synaptic cell for more times than it would otherwise. This may increase the amount of norepinephrine released, which can reduce anxiety symptoms. It can also lead to higher levels of the neuronal cyclic AMP (cAMP) which stimulates protein synthesis.

Additionally, SSRIs may reduce impulsivity and decrease hyperactivity. They also can improve sleep quality and reduce agitation for some people with ADHD. These drugs can, however, increase the risk of suicidal behaviour and thoughts among some people. They may also increase appetite and weight gain at the beginning of treatment.

Another kind of antidepressant, known as SNRIs, performs differently than SSRIs. SNRIs block the reuptake of serotonin as well as norepinephrine. Similar to SSRIs, they can influence anxiety, but they also improve the functioning of heart muscle and the blood vessels, which can reduce anxiety and stress. They also can improve the mood of some adults with bipolar disorder.

The most common SNRIs are duloxetine (Cymbalta) and venlafaxine (Effexor, Effexor XR) and desvenlafaxine (Khedezla, Pristiq). The SNRIs can raise blood pressure in certain individuals therefore they should not be taken by those suffering from high blood pressure or cardiovascular disease.

There are many behavioral treatments for anxiety and ADHD that can be used in addition to medication. Mindfulness-based techniques can be beneficial in reducing stress and anxiety, as can practicing yoga and meditation. Some people find tapping on specific body parts or techniques for emotional freedom helps reduce cortisol which is the hormone that causes anxiety. Exercise and diet can aid in reducing anxiety. Your doctor may recommend that you eat whole grains, fruits and vegetables, and to avoid sugar, as it can worsen anxiety for certain ADHD children and adults.

Non-stimulant based medicines

While stimulants are very effective at treating ADHD and have been studied extensively but they are not always the best choice for individuals with anxiety disorders and ADHD. Stimulant medications may cause adverse effects such as jitteriness, rapid heart rate and nervousness that can mimic or even worsen symptoms of anxiety.

Since 2002, non-stimulant medicines have been prescribed for ADHD (under the brand name Strattera). They do not raise the heart rate or blood pressure and are less likely than stimulant drugs to cause anxiety-related side effects like shaking, sweating, or nervousness.

Atomoxetine targets receptors for the brain chemical norepinephrine. It can improve attention and reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity. Studies have also shown that it can help improve anxiety symptoms in adolescents and children with ADHD. Researchers collected clinical articles from PubMed EMBASE PsycINFO and PsycINFO to determine if atomoxetine decreased anxiety symptoms among children and adolescents with ADHD.

Another medication that is effective in helping with anxiety symptoms is bupropion which targets the brain chemical dopamine. Bupropion is typically prescribed to people who have ADHD and depression. It can also help improve mood and reduce symptoms of anxiety. It is often best to address the anxiety first before tackling ADHD. This can usually help to alleviate the symptoms of anxiety.

In some cases anxiety symptoms in ADHD children can be the source of their anxiety. The most effective treatment for anxiety in these situations is usually cognitive-behavioral therapies and psychostimulants. These treatments can help reduce ADHD symptoms and anxiety by addressing the root cause of the issue.

Antidepressants are also frequently prescribed for those with coexisting ADHD and anxiety. SSRI antidepressants, that target the brain chemical serotonin, can help to relieve anxiety symptoms and improve mood. Examples include Zoloft Lexapro and Sertraline.

Your doctor will ultimately determine which medication is best for you. They will consider your lifestyle, symptoms, age and other health conditions before recommending any medication. It is crucial to discuss your goals for treatment with your doctor and adhere to a daily schedule while taking any medication.

Other options

Other treatment options could be beneficial for managing ADHD or anxiety, depending on your health goals. These include mindfulness yoga, meditation, tapping (Emotional Freedom Techniques) sleep and nutrition, as well as exercise and healthy eating habits.

People with anxiety are more likely to experience symptoms of adhd Anxiety medication, Dr. Hallowell says, which makes it difficult to treat both conditions at once. He typically prescribes stimulants first to address ADHD and then shifts to non prescription adhd medication for adults-stimulant drugs like atomoxetine, bupropion, or guanfacine, for anxiety disorders. These medications work 24/7 and are not controlled substances, similar to stimulants.