ADHD and Anxiety Medication

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

Stimulant medications can ease symptoms, but it can also cause side-effects such as tics or minor growth reductions in children and adolescents. Many people also experience their anxiety levels increase when they are taking stimulant drugs.

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

The drugs typically prescribed to treat ADHD have also proven track record for alleviating the symptoms of anxiety. They improve the supply of brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine that are generally lower in people with ADHD. This improves communication and activity between brain regions that regulate the executive and attention functions. This leads to an improvement in control of impulses and anxiety symptoms diminishing.

Both atomoxetine (as as methylphenidate) reduce anxiety symptoms in adults with ADHD who prescribes medication for adhd also suffer from anxiety disorders. Both treatments showed improvement in anxiety symptoms beginning as early as the 4th week of treatment. The effect was evident for eight weeks.

It is important to remember that the type of medication that will be most effective in treating anxiety and ADHD symptoms that co-occur may depend on which of the conditions has more impact on the quality of life of a person. One may experience numerous minor crises that create anxiety in a regular manner when they have to rush to make appointments or keep up with 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 cases antidepressants or SSRIs are the best over the counter adhd medication for adults option to combat anxiety-related symptoms. They have been proven to be effective at the reduction of anxiety levels among adults. They are taken orally and may take a while to begin working. The most commonly used choices are selective serotonin inhibits (SSRIs) which include Sertraline Serotonin, Fluoxetine, norepinephrine reuptake inhibitions (SNRIs) like duloxetine, venlafaxine and. These medications can be used in conjunction with cognitive-behavioral treatment for anxiety. They are especially beneficial for patients who have high or racing heart rate.

SSRIs

SSRIs are antidepressant drugs are frequently used to treat anxiety disorders. The prototype drug in this class is fluoxetine, also known as Prozac. The SSRIs can also aid in treating depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder. They are more adaptable and have fewer side effects than older generations of antidepressants.

The SSRIs hinder the reuptake of serotonin in synapses. This causes the neurotransmitter to remain active in the synapse and signal the post-synaptic cells more often than it would otherwise. This can increase the production of norepinephrine, which may reduce anxiety. It can also lead to increased levels of the neuronal cyclic AMP (cAMP) which can stimulate protein production.

SSRIs can also reduce the impulsivity and hyperactivity. They also can improve sleep quality and reduce anxiety for those with ADHD. However, these drugs can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior in certain individuals. They can also cause an increase in appetite and weight gain, particularly when they are first introduced.

Another type of antidepressant called SNRIs, works differently than SSRIs. SNRIs block the reuptake of serotonin as well as norepinephrine. Like SSRIs they may influence anxiety, but they can also improve the functioning of the heart muscle and blood vessels, which may reduce feelings of anxiety and stress. People with bipolar and adhd medication disorder also benefit from their use.

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

There are many treatment options for anxiety and ADHD that can be used in conjunction with medication. Meditation and mindfulness techniques can help reduce stress and anxiety. Some people find tapping certain body points or Emotional Freedom techniques, helps lower cortisol which is the hormone that causes anxiety. Exercise and diet can also reduce anxiety. Your doctor can suggest a diet of whole grains, fruits and vegetables and avoid sugar, which can worsen anxiety in some ADHD adults and children.

Non-stimulant-based medications

While stimulants are very effective in treating ADHD and have been extensively researched but they are not always the best option for those with coexisting anxiety and ADHD. These medications can trigger side effects like jitteriness, rapid heart rate and nervousness that can be similar to or worsen anxiety symptoms.

Non-stimulant medicines are a recent option that has been used to treat ADHD since 2002 (under the brand name Strattera). They don't increase heart rate or blood pressure, and they are less likely to cause anxiety-related side effects like shaking, sweating or nervousness.

Atomoxetine targets receptors for the brain chemical norepinephrine and can improve attention and reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity. Studies have also demonstrated that it is effective in reducing anxiety symptoms in children and adolescents with ADHD. Researchers collected clinical articles from PubMed, EMBASE and PsycINFO to find out whether atomoxetine reduced anxiety in adolescents and children with ADHD.

Bupropion is a different medication that can alleviate anxiety symptoms. It targets the brain chemical, dopamine. Bupropion is usually prescribed to those suffering from ADHD and depression. It can also boost mood and reduce symptoms of anxiety. It is generally a good idea to try and address the root anxiety-related issue before treating the ADHD because it can help to alleviate anxiety symptoms.

It is common for children with ADHD to experience issues with anxiety, and in some cases the anxiety is actually caused by their ADHD symptoms. Cognitive-behavioral treatment and psychostimulants are typically the most effective treatments for anxiety in this situation. These treatments can help reduce ADHD symptoms and anxiety by addressing the root cause of the issue.

Antidepressants may also be prescribed to patients suffering from ADHD and anxiety. SSRI antidepressants that target Serotonin, the chemical in the brain that is thought to aid in relieving anxiety symptoms and improve mood. Examples include Zoloft Lexapro and Sertraline.

The final decision of which medication is best for you will be determined by your doctor. They will look at your lifestyle, symptoms and age as well as other health issues before suggesting any medication. It is crucial 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 objectives, there are additional treatment options that can be beneficial in managing ADHD and anxiety. These include mindfulness meditation, tapping (Emotional Freedom Techniques) sleep and nutrition, as well as exercise and healthy eating habits.

People who are anxious are more likely to experience symptoms of ADHD, Dr. Hallowell says, which can make it difficult to treat both conditions at the same time. He usually prescribes stimulants first to address ADHD and then shifts to non-stimulant drugs like bupropion, atomoxetine or guanfacine to treat anxiety disorders. These medications are used throughout the day and are not controlled substances like stimulants.