Five Killer Quora Answers To ADHD Anxiety Medication
ADHD and Anxiety Medication
Anxiety disorders can be associated with ADHD. Anxiety can trigger restlessness, irritability and trouble sleeping.
Stimulant medications can ease symptoms, but it can also cause side-effects like tics, or slight growth decreases in children and adolescents. In addition, some individuals experience anxiety-related issues when taking stimulant medication.
Stimulants
Stimulants are a class of drugs used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and the condition known as 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 tablets, capsules, chunky clear crystals or a brown or white powder. The use of large doses of stimulants can cause over the counter adhd medication-stimulation and result in anxiety stomach cramps, panic attacks or paranoia. Long-term use of stimulants may cause addiction and serious side effects, such as heart problems high blood pressure, heart problems and stroke.
The medications that are typically prescribed to treat ADHD have also proven track record of relieving the symptoms of anxiety. They help by boosting brain chemicals like norepinephrine, dopamine and serotonin. These are lower in ADHD patients. This boosts activity and communication between parts of the brain that regulate the executive and attention functions. This leads to improved impulse control, and anxiety symptoms decrease.
Both atomoxetine (as well as methylphenidate) reduce anxiety symptoms among adults with ADHD who also suffer from anxiety disorders. The improvement in anxiety symptoms was evident as early as the fourth week of treatment for both drugs and the effect was sustained through 8 weeks of treatment.
It is important to remember that the kind of medication that will be most effective in treating anxiety and ADHD symptoms co-occurring may depend on which of the conditions has more impact on a person’s quality of living. For instance, a person might be prone to frequent anxiety-inducing episodes on a regular basis while they rush to schedule appointments or to keep on top of their work or school. These can be stressful and can cause anxiety more frequently than symptoms of a panic attack or phobia.
In these situations it may be beneficial to treat anxiety-related symptoms by taking antidepressants or SSRIs which have been shown to be effective in decreasing anxiety levels in adults. They are taken orally and may take some time to begin working. The most popular options are selective serotonin reuptake inhibits (SSRIs) that include Sertraline Serotonin, Fluoxetine and norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitions (SNRIs), such as duloxetine and venlafaxine. They can be used as a supplement to cognitive-behavioral treatment for anxiety and are particularly beneficial if a patient has a racing heart or elevated blood pressure.
SSRIs
Antidepressants, such as SSRIs (antidepressant medications) are commonly used to treat anxiety disorders. The drug that is the most popular in this category is fluoxetine, more commonly known as Prozac. The SSRIs are also able to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder. These drugs are more versatile and have fewer side effects than previous generations of antidepressants.
The SSRIs inhibit serotonin reuptake at synapses. This causes the neurotransmitter remain active within the synapse and communicate with the post-synaptic cell more times than it would normally. This can boost the output of norepinephrine, which can reduce anxiety symptoms. This can also increase levels of neuronal cyclicAMP (cAMP), stimulating protein synthesis.
SSRIs can also reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity. They can also improve the quality of sleep and reduce agitation for some people suffering from ADHD. However, these drugs can increase the likelihood of suicidal thoughts and actions in some people. They also can increase appetite and weight gain when they first begin.
The SNRIs are a distinct type of antidepressant than SSRIs. SNRIs block the reuptake both of serotonin and norepinephrine. Like SSRIs they may have an effect on anxiety, but they also improve the functioning of heart muscle and the blood vessels, which could decrease anxiety and stress. Some adults who suffer from bipolar disorder may benefit from their use.
Duloxetine (Cymbalta), venlafaxine, (Effexor XR, Pristiq) and desvenlafaxine are the most popular SNRIs. SNRIs may cause blood pressure to rise in some people, so those with high blood pressure or cardiovascular disease should avoid taking them.
In addition to medication, there are a number of behavioral therapies that can help with anxiety and ADHD. Mindfulness-based techniques can be beneficial in reducing anxiety and stress, as can practicing yoga and meditation. Some people have found that tapping on certain points on the body, or Emotional Freedom Techniques, can help reduce the cortisol hormone that is responsible for anxiety. Exercise and diet can aid in reducing anxiety. Your doctor may suggest that you consume whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, and avoid sugar, as it can increase anxiety for certain ADHD children and adults.
Non-stimulant-based drugs
While stimulants are very effective at treating ADHD and have been extensively researched, they are not always the best adhd medication for someone with anxiety option for those who suffer from anxiety and ADHD. The stimulant medications can trigger negative side effects, such as jitteriness and rapid heart rate. These symptoms can be similar to or worsen anxiety symptoms.
Since 2002, non-stimulant medicines have been used for ADHD (under the brand name strattera adhd medication). They do not cause an increase in blood pressure or heart rate, and they are less likely to have anxiety-related adverse effects like shaking, sweating, or nervousness.
Atomoxetine targets receptors for norepinephrine, which is a brain chemical that can enhance concentration and decrease the impulsivity and hyperactivity. It has also been shown to alleviate anxiety symptoms in adolescents and children with ADHD. Researchers gathered clinical papers from PubMed EMBASE PsycINFO and PsycINFO in order to determine if atomoxetine reduced anxiety symptoms among children and adolescents with adhd stimulant medication.
Another medication that can be effective in relieving anxiety symptoms is bupropion which targets the brain chemical dopamine. Bupropion is usually recommended for those suffering from co-existing depression and ADHD. It can also boost mood and decrease symptoms of anxiety. It is generally recommended to investigate and treat the underlying cause of anxiety before treating the ADHD, as that will usually help to alleviate anxiety symptoms.
In some instances, anxiety symptoms in ADHD children may be the cause of their anxiety. The most effective treatment for anxiety in these circumstances is usually cognitive-behavioral therapies and psychostimulants. This is because these therapies target the root of the issue and reduce adhd focus medication symptoms and, consequently, decrease the anxiety.
Antidepressants are also often prescribed to people with coexisting adhd anxiety medication and anxiety. SSRI antidepressants, which attack serotonin in the brain can ease anxiety symptoms and improve mood. Examples include Zoloft Lexapro, and Sertraline.
The final decision of which medication is right for you will be decided by your physician. Before recommending a drug, they will take into consideration your lifestyle, symptoms, age, as well as other health conditions. It is crucial to discuss your goals for treatment with your doctor and stick to a routine daily while taking any medication.
Other options
Other options for treatment may be beneficial in managing ADHD or anxiety, depending on your health goals. These include mindfulness meditation yoga (Emotional Freedom techniques) tapping and sleeping 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 at the same time. He prescribes stimulants to treat ADHD first, then non-stimulant medications such as bupropion or atomoxetine for anxiety disorders. These medications work 24/7 and are not controlled substances, similar to stimulants.