Types of Anxiety Disorder Medication
The use of medications can be a beneficial tool for managing anxiety symptoms. Psychologists have extensive experience in the use of medications and are able to write the right prescriptions to minimize the adverse effects.
Treatment for anxiety disorders is typically three-pronged, including psychotherapy, medication and exercise. SSRIs are the first option of medication to treat anxiety can take several weeks to take effect.
SSRIs
SSRIs are the drugs of choice for the majority of anxiety disorders. The most recent SSRIs have more favorable adverse effects than older tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) and monoamine oxide inhibitors (MAOIs). A variety of SSRIs are FDA-approved to treat generalized anxiety disorder, including fluoxetine (aka Prozac), paroxetine (aka Paxil), sertraline (aka Zoloft), and citalopram (aka Celexa).
These drugs increase serotonin levels in the brain. They can also aid in the increase of norepinephrine levels and BDNF. They are able to be utilized in conjunction with psychotherapy or alone. SSRIs may cause nausea and digestive problems, but these side effects typically subside as the body becomes accustomed to the medication.
The precise mechanism through which SSRIs work for anxiety is not fully understood. However, it is believed that they block the reuptake of serotonin from the post-synaptic neurons and increase the concentration of serotonin within the synaptic gap. This increases the amount of signaling across the synapse, and it also reduces anxiety symptoms.
In addition to decreasing anxiety, SSRIs may reduce the frequency and intensity of panic attacks. They also can help with depression and other mental health conditions that often co-occur with anxiety disorders. They can be used with psychotherapy or cognitive behavior therapy to improve their effectiveness.
SSRIs are not addictive, unlike some other antidepressants. Nevertheless, it is important to follow the prescriptions of your doctor exactly. If you stop taking your medication suddenly, this can cause "discontinuation syndrome" and a return of anxiety-related symptoms.
If SSRIs don't work for you, your doctor may try an alternative class of antidepressants, such as nefazodone, or mirtazapine. These medications may also be effective, however they have a greater chance of causing adverse reactions than the more recent SSRIs.
SSRIs can interact with certain foods, like eggs, red meat dairy, some vegetables and fruits. It is best to avoid these foods if taking these medications. Additionally it is recommended to avoid drinking alcohol while taking SSRIs as it may make it more difficult to deal with certain side effects.
Benzodiazepines
Benzodiazepines enhance the calming effects of certain chemicals within the brain and nervous system. They work by enhancing the effects of a neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which suppresses the activity of nerves. These drugs are effective in treating insomnia, anxiety disorders and various psychological disorders. However, they can be addictive and should only be used for brief durations of time under medical supervision. Benzos are dangerous if taken recreationally or mixed with other drugs, including alcohol.
When someone is suffering from anxiety disorders, they often look to medication as the first option. However, this is not the only option. Talk therapy or psychotherapy has also been proven to be a way to reduce anxiety symptoms. There are many different psychotherapies, however cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is the most popular and efficient. disorders anxiety of therapy teaches you to change your thinking and behavior so that you are less stressed.
The most popular benzodiazepines include alprazolam (Xanax), chlordiazepoxide (Librium), diazepam (Valium) Clorazepate (Tranxene) and the lorazepam (Ativan), and Quazepam (Dalmane). Each has a unique set of side effects, but they all have similar pharmacological properties. For instance, clorazepate can be more effective for treating seizures than other benzodiazepines, and lorazepam is better than quazepam.
Although benzodiazepines can be very effective, they are not recommended for long-term use as they can lead to physical dependence and tolerance. They can also trigger withdrawal symptoms, such as an increase in heart rate shaking, sweating, and shaking if you abruptly stop taking the medication. The symptoms can be extremely unpleasant and can last for a long time however, they can be reduced by slowly reducing the medication.
Benzodiazepines can be very addictive and should be used only for a brief period of time, usually not more than 4 weeks. During this time, you will need to closely monitor your blood pressure and heart rate to ensure that you don't suffer an extreme withdrawal reaction. If you're thinking of getting a benzodiazepine prescription, talk to your doctor about your history of substance abuse.
Beta-blockers
Beta-blockers can be employed to treat anxiety-related issues. They block adrenaline from binding to beta receptors within your nervous system. This is a way to stop the hormone from triggering physical reactions like heart palpitations or tremors. These medications are usually prescribed to treat high blood pressure and other cardiovascular conditions. However, they can be prescribed off-label for anxiety.
When you are anxious your body produces a chemical dubbed adrenaline, which signals the body to prepare for fight or flight. Adrenaline binds beta receptors in the brain and heart which causes your heart to beat more quickly and triggering other physical reactions. Beta-blockers are class medications that treat hypertension and other heart ailments. They are able to block adrenaline's binding action. This can help lower the blood pressure and heart rate.
Contrary to SSRIs and benzodiazepines, which require a long time to produce a noticeable improvement in your symptoms, beta-blockers can be acted upon quickly. This makes them a great option for people who need immediate relief from anxiety-related symptoms, such as those who have to give speeches in public or fly on a plane. They also make a great alternative for people suffering from anxiety and chronic heart issues like atherosclerosis or congestive heart failure.
Beta-blockers can help reduce physical symptoms of anxiety but they don't address the root causes. They are only prescribed in conjunction with an extensive treatment plan that incorporates lifestyle adjustments and counseling. They can be beneficial for those who have tried medication for anxiety but found it to be ineffective or had intolerable side effects.
Propranolol, atenolol, as well as other beta-blockers are all available. Your doctor will determine the best one for you based on your medical history and overall health. These medications can trigger negative side effects, including fatigue or low blood pressure It is therefore important to discuss your treatment options with your doctor.
MAOIs
In the 1950s, monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) are effective antidepressants for some depression and anxiety disorders. However, they are not commonly used as often as SSRIs or other antidepressants due to the need for strict diet restrictions and the risk of drug interactions. Certain MAOIs are available in tablet form and can be taken orally, while others (such Emsam) are applied as a transdermal skin patch.
MAOIs block the action of MAO, thereby increasing the amount of serotonin and norepinephrine that is found in the brain. These neurotransmitters play a role in mood, sleep and appetite as also in sexual function. MAOIs also have anti-anxiety effects. However, they are more likely to cause side effects than TCAs and SSRIs and carry warnings in boxes for suicide.
In addition to the MAOIs listed below your doctor might prescribe other medications or treatments that can aid in managing your symptoms. A beta-blocker, like propranolol is frequently prescribed to alleviate the physical symptoms associated with anxiety. Your doctor might suggest a relaxation technique or other treatments at home to ease your symptoms.
The original MAOI, Iproniazid, was discovered during research into tuberculosis in 1952. It was later discovered to have mood-enhancing properties and is considered the first antidepressant medication. Generally, MAOIs are only used when other antidepressants don't work, as they may cause serious adverse reactions that require immediate medical attention.
It could trigger a serious reaction resulting in high blood pressure if you are taking an MAOI while eating foods that contain tyramine. Tyramine is found in a wide variety of cheeses and red meats as well as in fish, shellfish and a few dietary supplements. This severe reaction can cause a throbbing head pain, nausea, vomiting and a fast heartbeat. MAOIs may also interact with other drugs and cause extreme side effects, such as suicidal thoughts, behaviors, and even suicidal thoughts.
Before prescribing MAOIs to you, your doctor will discuss with you the foods to avoid. The doctor will advise you to stay clear of eating foods containing tyramine while taking the drug. He or she might also provide you with a list of food that are safe to eat when taking MAOIs. The food guide provided will help prevent MAOI-related side effects.