Can Antidepressants Cause Anxiety

Can Antidepressants Cause Anxiety Depression Treatment Medication Print Can Antidepressants Cause Anxiety? By Nancy Schimelpfening Nancy Schimelpfening, MS is the administrator for the non-profit depression support group Depression Sanctuary. Nancy has a lifetime of experience with depression, experiencing firsthand how devastating this illness can be. Learn about our editorial policy Nancy Schimelpfening Medically reviewed by Medically reviewed by Steven Gans, MD on November 18, 2015 Steven Gans, MD is board-certified in psychiatry and is an active supervisor, teacher, and mentor at Massachusetts General Hospital. Learn about our Medical Review Board Steven Gans, MD Updated on February 04, 2020 Depression Overview Types Symptoms Causes & Risk Factors Diagnosis Treatment Coping ADA & Your Rights Depression in Kids Joerg Steffens/OJO Images/Getty Images In This Article Table of Contents Expand Link Activation Syndrome Suicidal Thoughts Anxiety Increases View All While antidepressants can be used to treat anxiety, it is also a possible side effect of these medications. This can be confusing, especially if youre being successfully treated for depression but begin feeling anxious at the same time. There are a number of possible reasons for this, though it is best to discuss your concerns with your doctor. The Link Between Antidepressants and Anxiety Antidepressants  are often used to treat anxiety disorders, especially generalized anxiety and panic disorders, as well as depression. For some people, depression and an  anxiety disorder  can co-exist. For instance,  one study found  that around 67% of people with a depressive disorder also  have an anxiety disorder.?? When two conditions are present at the same time, this is known as comorbidity. It is not uncommon and researchers continue to look into how antidepressants can help both types of conditions, including the link between the disorders and the neurotransmitter serotonin. Antidepressants and Activation Syndrome Occasionally, antidepressants may also create feelings of anxiety and jitteriness as a side effect. This effect, sometimes known as activation syndrome, usually occurs in the early days of treatment.  In one study, 31% of people who had not taken antidepressants before experienced activation syndrome.?? A systematic review of multiple studies  took this a step further. In it, researchers compared rates of jitteriness/anxiety syndrome among different types of antidepressants. The results varied  greatly, with anywhere from 4% to 65% of people newly prescribed antidepressants experiencing this side effect.?? Generally, the side effect is  mild and temporary, dissipating as a person adjusts to the new medication.  Activation syndrome can also potentially include such symptoms as agitation, insomnia, irritability, aggressiveness, impulsiveness, and restlessness. Antidepressants and Suicidal Thoughts In addition, there is a complex relationship between symptoms such as hypomania or mania. This may worsen depression or suicidal thoughtsâ€"another rare side effect of  antidepressant treatmentâ€"and the presence of activation syndrome. Children, teens, and young adults are most prone to developing the more problematic side effects of worsening depression and suicidal thoughts.??  In 2007, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) updated the  black box warning required on all antidepressants. The new information includes  the added risk for developing suicidal thoughts and urges during the early stages of treatment. The FDA further recommends that any child, teen, or young adult who is beginning treatment with an antidepressant be carefully observed for any signs of unusual behavioral changes, worsening depression or suicidality.  Help should be sought immediately if any of these do occur. What You Can Do If an Antidepressant Is Increasing Your Anxiety If you do feel like an antidepressant is increasing your anxiety, speak with your doctor about it. There are a number of different approaches they can take to counteract this side effect. For instance, they may lower your dose, switch you to a different medication, or prescribe another medication to counteract it. It is not advised to stop taking your antidepressant without first consulting your doctor. Stopping your medication too quickly can create its own set problems, including symptoms such as muscle aches, fatigue, upset stomach, and dizziness. You also run the risk that your depression may return or become worse. A Word From Verywell When you begin taking a new antidepressant, it may take some time for your body to adjust. Everyone is different, which is why its important to communicate with your doctor about any side effects that you experience, including increased anxiety. Most importantly, if you experience suicidal thoughts, seek medical help right away. The Best Online Anxiety Support Groups