ADHD and Anxiety Medication

Anxiety disorders are frequently associated with ADHD. Anxiety can trigger irritation, restlessness, and difficulty sleeping.

Stimulant medication can help alleviate symptoms, but it can also cause side-effects like tics, or minor growth reductions in adolescents and children. Some people also notice that their anxiety levels increase when they are taking stimulant medications.

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. You can find them in the form of capsules, tablets or chunky crystals. They are also available in white or brown dust. The use of large doses can result in over-stimulation, resulting in anxiety, panic, stomach cramps, paranoia and aggression. Long-term use of stimulants can cause addiction and serious side effects such as heart problems, high blood pressure and stroke.

These medicines have also been shown to relieve anxiety symptoms. They work by increasing the supply of brain chemicals norepinephrine and dopamine which are typically lower in people with ADHD. This increases the activity and communication of parts of the brain that control executive and attention functions. This leads to increased impulse control and anxiety symptoms diminish.

Both atomoxetine (as as methylphenidate) reduce anxiety symptoms in adults with ADHD who also have anxiety disorders. The improvement in anxiety symptoms was evident in the first week of treatment for both drugs and the effect was continued for 8 weeks of treatment.

It is important to keep in mind that the kind of medication that may be best for treating anxiety and ADHD co-occurring disorders could depend on which disorder has the greatest impact on the quality of life of a person. An individual may experience many mini-crises that cause worry in a regular manner when they have to rush to make appointments or keep up with assignments at school or at work. These can be stressful and can cause anxiety more frequently than signs of a panic attack or anxiety.

In these instances it is possible to address the anxiety-related symptoms with antidepressants or SSRIs, which have been proven effective in decreasing anxiety levels in adults. These are taken orally, and may take some time to work. The most common choices are selective serotonin inhibits (SSRIs) that include Sertraline, Fluoxetine, and serotonin, norepinephrine reuptake inhibitions (SNRIs) like venlafaxine, and duloxetine. These are often taken as a supplement to cognitive-behavioral treatment for anxiety and are particularly useful when a patient is suffering from high blood pressure.

SSRIs

SSRIs which are antidepressant drugs, are often used to treat anxiety disorders. The drug that is the most popular in this group is fluoxetine, better known as Prozac. The SSRIs are also effective in treating depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, and post-traumatic disorder. They are more adaptable and have less adverse negative effects than the older generation of antidepressants.

The SSRIs work by inhibiting serotonin's reuptake at synapses. This causes the neurotransmitter within the synapse to stay active and communicate with the post synaptic cells more than is the case with other neurotransmitters. This can increase norepinephrine output which reduces anxiety symptoms. It may also lead to increased levels of the neuronal cyclic AMP (cAMP) which can stimulate protein synthesis.

SSRIs also reduce the impulsivity and hyperactivity. They can also improve sleep quality and decrease agitation in individuals with ADHD. However, these medications can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and actions in some people. They can also increase appetite and weight gain when first starting.

Another type of antidepressant known as SNRIs, functions differently than the SSRIs. SNRIs block the reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine. They also impact anxiety. They can enhance the functioning of the heart muscle and blood vessels. This can reduce feelings like anxiety and stress. They also can improve the mood of some individuals suffering from bipolar disorder.

Duloxetine (Cymbalta), venlafaxine, (Effexor XR, Pristiq) and desvenlafaxine are the most commonly used SNRIs. The SNRIs can increase blood pressure in certain individuals therefore they are not recommended for those suffering from high blood pressure or heart disease.

In addition to medication in addition, there are a variety of behavioral treatments that could help with anxiety and ADHD. Meditation and mindfulness techniques can reduce stress and anxiety. Some people find tapping on specific body points, or Emotional Freedom techniques, helps lower cortisol which is the hormone that causes anxiety. Exercise and diet can aid in reducing anxiety. Your doctor may recommend you consume whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, and stay away from sugar, as it can increase anxiety for some adhd anxiety medication children and adults.

Non-stimulant-based medicines

Although stimulants are highly effective in treating ADHD, and have been extensively researched, they may not be the best option for those who also suffer from anxiety and ADHD. The stimulant drugs can cause side effects like jitteriness, rapid heart rate and nervousness that could 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 increase heart rate or blood pressure and are less likely to suffer anxiety-related side effects such as shaking, sweating, or nervousness.

Atomoxetine targets receptors for the brain chemical norepinephrine. It can general practitioners prescribe adhd medication help improve attention and reduce impulsivity as well as hyperactivity. It has also been proven to reduce anxiety symptoms in adolescents and children with ADHD. Researchers collected clinical articles from PubMed, EMBASE and PsycINFO to determine if atomoxetine improved anxiety in adolescents and children with ADHD.

Another medication that can be effective in relieving anxiety symptoms is bupropion, which targets the brain chemical dopamine. Bupropion is typically prescribed to people who have ADHD and depression. It can also improve mood and lessen anxiety symptoms. It is generally recommended to treat anxiety first before tackling ADHD. This can usually reduce the anxiety symptoms.

In some cases, anxiety symptoms in ADHD children may be the cause of their anxiety. The most effective approach to treat anxiety in these circumstances is usually cognitive-behavioral therapies and psychostimulants. This is because these treatments target the root of the issue and help reduce ADHD symptoms which, in turn, reduce anxiety.

Antidepressants are also frequently prescribed to those suffering from coexisting ADHD and anxiety. SSRI antidepressants, which attack the brain chemical serotonin, can help to relieve anxiety symptoms and improve mood. Examples include Zoloft, Lexapro and Sertraline.

In the end, the decision on which medication is best for you will be made by your physician. Before recommending a medication they will consider your symptoms, lifestyle and age, as well as other health conditions. It is crucial to discuss with your doctor your treatment goals and to stick to a routine daily when taking any medication.

Other options

Depending on your unique health objectives, there are additional treatments that could help you manage concerta adhd medication and anxiety. These include mindfulness meditation and yoga (Emotional Freedom techniques), tapping sleep nutrition, exercise and healthy eating habits.

People with anxiety are more likely to experience symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder Dr. Hallowell says, which makes it difficult to treat both disorders at the same time. He prescribes stimulants to treat new adhd medication first, and then non-stimulant medications such as bupropion or atomoxetine to treat anxiety disorders. These medications are used throughout the day and are not controlled substances like stimulants.