________________________________________________________________________
KEY POINTS
________________________________________________________________________
Substance-induced anxiety disorder is nervousness, restlessness, or panic caused by taking a drug or stopping a drug.
If you had anxiety before you started using the drug, even if the drug makes your symptoms worse, it is not considered a substance-induced anxiety disorder.
The brain makes chemicals that affect thoughts, emotions, and actions. Without the right balance of these chemicals, there may be problems with the way you think, feel, or act. Many drugs change the amounts of these chemicals.
Some drugs can cause anxiety while you are taking them. Other drugs can cause anxiety for several weeks after you stop taking them. Drugs and medicines that can cause anxiety include:
The symptoms may start while you are taking the drugs or within a few days after you stop taking them. Besides feeling nervous and worried, symptoms may include:
Your healthcare provider will ask how much and how often you use nonprescription, prescription, and illegal drugs. Be honest about the medicines and drugs you use. Your provider needs this information to give you the right treatment. He will also ask about your symptoms, medical history and give you a physical exam. You may have tests or scans to help make a diagnosis.
See your healthcare provider if you believe that a medicine may be causing anxiety. Your healthcare provider may prescribe a change in medicine or treatment for your symptoms. Do not change the dosage or stop taking any prescribed medicine unless your healthcare provider has given you instructions to do so.
Drug abuse and dependence can be treated. For any treatment to be successful, you must want to stop using drugs. Do not try to use alcohol and other drugs to reduce withdrawal symptoms. Your healthcare provider may prescribe medicine to help you get through withdrawal.
Self-help groups such as Cocaine Anonymous, support groups, and therapy may be helpful. You might be treated in a substance abuse treatment program. Your healthcare providers and counselors will work with you to develop a treatment program.
Therapy
Substance-induced anxiety disorder can be treated with either group or individual therapy. Therapy in a group with other people who have substance abuse problems is often very helpful. In some cases, medicines for depression or anxiety may help you to stop substance abuse. Discuss the options with your healthcare provider or therapist.
Other Treatments
Learning ways to relax may help. Yoga and meditation may also be helpful. You may want to talk with your healthcare provider about using these methods along with medicines and therapy.
Claims have been made that certain herbal and dietary products help control cravings or withdrawal symptoms. Supplements are not tested or standardized and may vary in strengths and effects. They may have side effects and are not always safe. Before you take any supplement, talk with your healthcare provider.
Get emergency care if you or a loved one has serious thoughts of suicide or self-harm, violence, or harming others. Also seek immediate help if you have chest pain or trouble breathing.
For more information, contact: