A Complete Guide To Anxiety Disorder Medication
Types of Anxiety Disorder Medication Medications can be a valuable tool for managing anxiety symptoms. Psychologists have extensive experience in the use of medications and are able to formulate the right prescriptions to minimize the adverse effects. The typical treatment for anxiety disorders is three-pronged, and includes psychotherapy, exercise and medications. SSRIs are the first treatment for anxiety, can take up to several weeks to be effective. SSRIs Most anxiety disorders are treated with SSRIs. The latest SSRIs have more favorable adverse effects than older tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) and monoamine oxide inhibitors (MAOIs). A variety of SSRIs have been FDA-approved to treat generalized anxiety disorder . This includes fluoxetine (aka Prozac), paraxetine, (aka Paxil), and sertraline, (aka Zoloft), as well as citalopram, (aka Celexa). These medications can increase serotonin in the brain, and can also boost norepinephrine or BDNF. They can be taken on their own or in combination with psychotherapy. SSRIs can cause side effects, like nausea and digestive problems however, they tend to improve as the body gets used to the medication. The precise mechanism through which SSRIs work for anxiety is not understood fully. However it is believed that they inhibit the reuptake of serotonin from the post-synaptic neuron and increase the concentration of serotonin in the synaptic gap. This enhances the signaling across the synapses and reduces anxiety symptoms. In addition to reducing anxiety, SSRIs may reduce the frequency and severity of panic attacks. panic anxiety disorder can help with depression and other mental health issues that are often associated with anxiety disorders. They can be used in combination with psychotherapy or other types of cognitive behavior therapy, which could enhance their effectiveness. SSRIs aren't addictive, unlike other antidepressants. However, it is crucial to follow your doctor's prescriptions exactly. If you suddenly stop taking your medication, it can result in “discontinuation” syndrome and anxiety symptoms to return. If SSRIs are not working for you, then your physician may try a different antidepressant class, such as nefazodone, or mirtazapine. These drugs may also be effective, but they have a greater risk of adverse effects than the more recent SSRIs. SSRIs can interact with certain foods, such as red meat, eggs, dairy, and some fruits and vegetables. It is recommended to stay clear of these foods if you are taking these medications. It is also generally recommended to stay clear of drinking alcohol while taking SSRIs because it can cause a number of side effects. Benzodiazepines Benzodiazepines improve the calming effect of certain chemical substances within the brain and nervous system. They function by enhancing the effects of a neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acids (GABA) that inhibits the activity of nerves. These drugs are effective in treating anxiety, insomnia and other psychological disorders. However they can be addictive and should only be used for short durations of time under medical supervision. Benzos are dangerous if taken recreationally or mixed with other drugs such as alcohol. The use of medication is often the first thing people turn to when they're suffering from an anxiety disorder, but they're not the only option for treatment. Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy, has been proven to help decrease anxiety-related symptoms. There are a myriad of different psychotherapies that can help, but the most popular and effective one is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). This type of therapy teaches you to change your thoughts and behavior so that you are less stressed. Alprazolam and chlordiazepoxide as well as diazep Clorazepate, lorazepam, and quazepam are among the most commonly used benzodiazepines. Each one has its own set of adverse effects, although they all share similar properties pharmacologically. Clorazepate for instance is more effective at treating seizure disorders compared to other benzodiazepines. Lorazepam, on other hand, is better in treating anxiety disorders when in comparison to quazepam. Benzodiazepines are extremely effective, but they are not recommended for long-term use because they may cause tolerance and physical dependence. In addition, they may lead to withdrawal symptoms if you stop taking them abruptly like sweating, a pounding heart and shaking. Symptoms can be very unpleasant and can last for weeks, but they can be minimized by slowly reducing the medication. Benzodiazepines can be extremely addictive and should only be used only for a short period of time. Most often, it is not more than four weeks. During this period, you'll have to be vigilant about your heart rate and blood pressure so that you don't have an extreme withdrawal reaction. Speak to your doctor if you are considering using a benzodiazepine. Beta-blockers Beta-blockers are an type of medication that is used to treat anxiety symptoms. These medications prevent adrenaline from binding to beta receptors in your nervous system, preventing the hormone from triggering physical reactions like heart palpitations and tremors. These medications are typically used to treat high blood pressure and other cardiovascular conditions however they can be prescribed for off-label use in cases of anxiety. When you are anxious, your body produces a chemical called adrenaline which signals your body to prepare for fight or flight. Adrenaline binds with beta receptors in the heart and brain which causes your heart to beat faster and may cause other physical reactions. Beta-blockers, which are an class of drugs that treat hypertension and various heart diseases are able to block the binding action of adrenaline which can help reduce your heart rate and blood pressure. Beta-blockers are quick to work, unlike SSRIs or benzodiazepines that require a long time to show a difference in symptoms. They are a great option for those who need immediate relief from the symptoms of anxiety. For example, those who are required to deliver an address to the public or travel in an airplane. They are also a good choice for people who suffer from anxiety as well as a chronic heart condition like atherosclerosis or congestive heart failure. Beta-blockers may reduce physical symptoms of anxiety, but they don't address the underlying causes. They are therefore only prescribed in conjunction with an overall treatment plan that incorporates lifestyle modifications and counseling. However, they can be an effective option for those who have tried other medications for anxiety but haven't found them to be effective or cause uncontrollable side effects. Propranolol, atenolol, and other beta-blockers are all available. Your doctor will decide the best one for you depending on your medical history and health status. These medications can cause negative side effects like fatigue or low blood pressure. It is crucial to discuss your options with your physician. MAOIs Monoamine Oxase inhibitors (MAOIs) which were first developed in the 1950s as an antidepressant, work for certain anxiety and depression disorders. They aren't as frequently used as SSRIs and other antidepressants due to the strict dietary restrictions that are required as well as the risk of interactions with other drugs. Certain MAOIs are administered by mouth in tablet form, while others (such as Emsam) are available in the form of a transdermal patch that's applied to the skin every day. MAOIs block the action of MAO and increase the amount of norepinephrine and serotonin in the brain. These neurotransmitters play an important role in sleep, mood and appetite as well as sexual function. MAOIs are anti-anxiety. However, they are more likely to cause adverse effects than TCAs and SSRIs and are accompanied by warnings on suicide in a box. In addition to the MAOIs mentioned below, your doctor might prescribe other medications or treatments that can help you manage your symptoms. A beta-blocker, such as propranolol, is usually prescribed to ease physical symptoms associated with anxiety. Your doctor may recommend a relaxation technique, or other home treatments to ease your symptoms. The original MAOI, Iproniazid, was discovered during tuberculosis research in 1952. It was soon discovered to have mood-elevating properties and is believed to be the first antidepressant medication. MAOIs should be used only in cases where other antidepressants have failed since they can cause serious side-effects that require immediate medical attention. It could trigger a serious reaction that can result in high blood pressure if you are taking an MAOI while eating foods that contain tyramine. Tyramine is present in many red meats and cheeses as well as in shellfish, fish and some dietary supplements. This severe reaction could cause headache pain that is throbbing nausea, vomiting, and a rapid heartbeat. MAOIs can also interact with other drugs and cause serious side effects, like suicidal thoughts, behaviors, and even suicidal thoughts. Your doctor will discuss your diet requirements with you prior to prescribing MAOIs. They will instruct you to stay clear of eating foods that contain tyramine while you take the medication. The doctor might also provide you with an inventory of food that are safe to consume when taking MAOIs. This food guide can help stay clear of MAOI-related side effects.