Three Reasons Why The Reasons For Your ADHD Anxiety Medication Is Broken (And How To Repair It)
ADHD and Anxiety Medication
People with ADHD typically suffer from co-occurring anxiety disorders. Anxiety can lead to anxiety, restlessness and trouble sleeping.
The use of stimulants can ease these symptoms however, they may also cause adverse effects, such as tics and minor growth reduction in children and adolescents. Many people also experience their anxiety rises when they take stimulant drugs.
Stimulants
Stimulants are a class of drugs 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 are available in the form of tablets, capsules or chunky crystals. They are also available as a white or brown dust. The use of large doses can result in excessive stimulation, resulting in anxiety and stomach cramps, panic, aggression and paranoia. Long-term use of stimulants can cause addiction and serious side effects, such as heart problems as well as high blood pressure and stroke.
The medications that are typically prescribed to treat ADHD have also proven track record of relieving the symptoms of anxiety. They work by increasing the amount of brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine that are generally less in people suffering from ADHD. This improves the activity and communication of parts of the brain which control executive and attention functions. This results in an improvement in impulse control, and anxiety symptoms diminish.
Both atomoxetine (as as methylphenidate) reduce anxiety symptoms in adults with ADHD who also suffer from anxiety disorders. Both treatments improved anxiety symptoms beginning as early as the 4th week of treatment. The benefit was evident for eight weeks.
It is crucial to remember that the kind of medication that is best for treating anxiety and ADHD co-occurring symptoms could come down to which condition has the greatest impact on the quality of life of an individual. An individual may experience many minor crises that create anxiety on a regular schedule when they have to rush to make appointments or finish assignments at school or at work. These can be extremely stressful and can cause them to be anxious on more of a frequently than the symptoms of a specific anxiety or panic attack.
In these situations antidepressants or SSRIs are the best choice to alleviate anxiety-related symptoms. These drugs have been proven to be effective at reducing anxiety levels in adults. They are taken orally and can take a long time to take effect. The most commonly used options are selective serotonin inhibits (SSRIs) that include Sertraline Serotonin, Fluoxetine, norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) like duloxetine and venlafaxine. These medications can be used in conjunction with cognitive-behavioral treatment for anxiety. They are especially effective for patients who have an elevated or racing heart rate.
SSRIs
Antidepressants, including SSRIs (antidepressant drugs) are frequently used to treat anxiety disorders. The prototype drug in this category is fluoxetine, more commonly known as Prozac. The SSRIs can also aid in treating depression, obsessive compulsive disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder. They are more versatile than earlier generation antidepressants, and they have fewer and less severe adverse effects.
The SSRIs inhibit the reuptake serotonin at synapses. This causes the neurotransmitter to remain active in the synapse and signal the post-synaptic cell more times than would otherwise occur. This may increase the amount of norepinephrine released which reduces anxiety symptoms. This may also increase levels of neuronal cyclicAMP (cAMP), stimulating protein synthesis.
They also decrease the impulsivity and hyperactivity. They also can improve sleep quality and decrease anxiety for those with ADHD. However, these drugs can increase the likelihood of suicidal thoughts and actions in some people. They may also cause an increase in appetite and weight gain, particularly when they are first introduced.
Another type of antidepressant known as SNRIs, functions differently than the SSRIs. SNRIs stop the reuptake serotonin as well as norepinephrine. They can also affect anxiety. They can improve the functioning of both the heart muscle and blood vessels. This may reduce feelings such as anxiety and stress. They can also boost the mood of people suffering from bipolar disorder.
Duloxetine (Cymbalta) and venlafaxine (Effexor XR, Pristiq) and desvenlafaxine are the most popular SNRIs. The SNRIs may raise blood pressure in some people, so they are not recommended for those with high blood pressure or heart disease.
There are many behavioral treatments for anxiety and ADHD that can be employed alongside medication. Meditation and mindfulness techniques can reduce anxiety and stress. Some people find tapping certain points on the body, or Emotional Freedom Techniques can help reduce the cortisol hormone that is responsible for anxiety. Diet and exercise can also aid in reducing anxiety. Your doctor can suggest a diet of whole vegetables, fruits and grains and avoid sugar, which can cause anxiety in some ADHD children and adults.
Non-stimulant-based drugs
Although stimulants are extremely effective at treating ADHD and have been studied extensively but they are not always the best option for those with anxiety disorders and ADHD. Stimulant medication can cause negative side effects, such as anxiety and jitteriness. These symptoms can be similar to or worsen symptoms of anxiety.
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 increase heart rate or blood pressure, and they are less likely to suffer anxiety-related side effects like shaking, sweating or nervousness.
Atomoxetine works by targeting receptors for norepinephrine. It is a brain chemical that improves concentration and decrease hyperactivity and impulsivity. It has also been found to alleviate 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 in children and adolescents with ADHD.
Bupropion is a different medication that can alleviate anxiety symptoms. It targets the brain chemical, dopamine. Bupropion is usually advised for people who suffer from co-occurring depression and ADHD. medication for add in adults can also improve mood and decrease symptoms of anxiety. It is usually best to address the anxiety first before treating ADHD. This can usually help to alleviate the symptoms of anxiety.
In some cases, anxiety symptoms in ADHD children are the cause of their anxiety. Psychostimulants and cognitive-behavioral treatments are usually the most effective methods to treat anxiety in this type of situation. These treatments can reduce ADHD symptoms and anxiety by addressing the root causes of the problem.
Antidepressants may also be prescribed to those who have 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 right 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 treatment goals with your doctor and stick to a routine daily while taking any medication.
Other options
Based on your specific health goals, there are other treatments that could help you manage ADHD and anxiety. These include mindfulness meditation yoga (Emotional Freedom techniques), tapping, sleep and nutrition, exercise and healthy eating habits.
People who are anxious are more likely to develop symptoms of ADHD Dr. Hallowell says, which can make it difficult to treat both conditions at once. He typically prescribes stimulants to treat ADHD, and then turns to non-stimulant medications such as bupropion, atomoxetine or guanfacine, for anxiety disorders. These work around the clock and are not controlled substances as stimulants.