Finding the Best Medication For Anxiety Disorder
Anxiety is a common mental health issue. Many people take medication to manage their anxiety symptoms. There are many types of medications including SSRIs, benzodiazepines and others.
SSRIs (such as sertraline, the fluoxetine, and citalopram) and SNRIs (such as venlafaxine) are typically the first prescriptions doctors give for anxiety. They affect neurotransmitters in your brain, which influence mood.
Benzodiazepines
It is normal to feel anxious or stressed at times. However when these feelings last or cause problems in your daily life, you may need to seek help from a professional. A medication can be a useful tool to reduce anxiety symptoms in conjunction with psychotherapy or lifestyle changes. There isn't a one-size-fits-all medication for anxiety. The most effective option for you will depend on your specific diagnosis and other aspects.
Benzodiazepines such as Klonopin (clonazepam), Xanax (alprazolam) and Valium (diazepam) are rapid-acting medicines that can offer immediate relief from symptoms of anxiety like a rapid heart rate, sweating, or a the voice that is trembling. Benzodiazepines reduce brain activity and induce relaxation by increasing the activity of the receptors for gamma aminobutyric acid. They are prescribed for anxiety disorders such as panic disorder, social anxiety and generalized anxiety. However, disorders anxiety can be addictive and should only be used under medical supervision for short-term use.
Antidepressants are also commonly used to treat anxiety disorders, especially selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). These medications increase the levels in the brain of serotonin (a neurotransmitter and hormone that affects mood), as well as norepinephrine (another neurotransmitter associated with the body's fight or flight response). However certain people don't respond well to these medications and may experience adverse effects like insomnia or nausea. In addition, physical dependence can develop on long-term SSRI treatment.
Certain medications, such as propranolol and atenolol are prescribed off-label to treat anxiety, especially when used in conjunction with antidepressants. These beta blockers are typically used to lower blood pressure and heart issues however they can also help control anxiety-related feelings that accompany some phobias or anxiety disorders.
Allergy medications, such as Vistaril (hydroxyzine), are also used to relieve some anxiety-related symptoms. It blocks certain histamine receptors in the brain, which reduces excessive activity in the central nervous system, resulting in a calming effect. It is prescribed for anxiety, particularly before surgery. Although it is not a medication of first choice, it is often an option for those who are unable to take benzodiazepines due to of the potential for addiction and misuse.
Antidepressants
Anxiety is a common mental health issue and it's highly treatable. The first step is often lifestyle changes, however sometimes medication can help with symptoms as well. There are a variety of medications that can ease anxiety. The one that is most effective will depend on the patient's diagnosis and medical background as well as their treatment goals. In general, newer SSRI antidepressants are the best medication for anxiety, but older tricyclic antidepressants can also perform.
Benzodiazepines can also be employed to ease anxiety attacks and other symptoms. They are fast-acting and offer relief. They work by targeting receptors for Gamma-aminobutyric Acid (GABA), which slow down the brain when it's overexcited and create a feeling of calm. They are generally used as a transitional medication but they can also be habit-forming. Therefore they shouldn't be used for a long time. Examples of benzodiazepines include Klonopin (clonazepam) and Xanax (alprazolam).
Another kind of antidepressant, beta-blockers, can also be used to treat anxiety by inhibiting the actions of adrenaline and noradrenaline, hormones that play a role in the body's fight or flight reaction. They also increase levels of serotonin, a chemical messenger that affects mood. Propranolol, atenolol, and other beta-blockers are prescribed by physicians to combat anxiety.
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors are the medications doctors usually prescribe for anxiety, and they work by impacting the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. The drugs can take several weeks to begin working, so it's important not to become discouraged if you don't see immediate results. Common SSRIs prescribed for anxiety are sertraline (Zoloft) as well as the fluoxetine (Prozac), and citalopram (Lexapro).
In some cases, antidepressants can worsen anxiety Therefore, they're prescribed as an alternative. In other cases it's the only option that works, particularly when paired with therapy. A psychiatrist is the best person to discuss this issue because they have extensive experience in psychiatric medication management. They will take into consideration the patient's medical history, goals, and tolerance to medication when choosing the best options. Psychiatrists also offer regular appointments and follow-ups to track the effectiveness of the medication and also monitor any side effects.
Hydroxyzine
Medications are the cornerstone of treatment for anxiety disorder s but they're not the only option to manage your symptoms. A psychiatrist will employ various tools, such as psychotherapy to help you deal with your anxiety. If medication is required for treatment, they'll recommend a treatment plan combining several different drugs in the proper dosage to achieve the best results.
Psychiatrists can prescribe a variety of anti-anxiety medicines that include benzodiazepines as well as SSRIs. They can also prescribe SNRIs, or atypical antidepressants. These drugs can provide long-term relief as well as short-term relief for panic attacks and other severe symptoms.
Hydroxyzine is an antihistamine which can be used to alleviate tension and anxiety. It does this by altering the levels of serotonin and histamine, which can change your mood. Hydroxyzine, which is not a controlled substance it does not have the same risks of addiction as other drugs like lorazepam or clonazepam. However, if you mix this medication with other drugs that cause an increase in drowsiness (such as sedatives or narcotic pain relievers) the side effects can be dangerous.
A doctor can prescribe hydroxyzine in the form of an oral tablet syrup, suspension or syrup to be taken three or four times per day. It is essential to adhere to the directions on the prescription, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any aspect you aren't understanding. If you're breastfeeding or pregnant, you shouldn't be taking hydroxyzine because studies on animals have shown that the drug may cause harm to the fetus.
Psychiatrists prescribe hydroxyzine to treat anxiety, a condition that can cause feelings of anxiety and nervousness. It can also lead to heart palpitations and trembling. People who have breathing problems should not take hydroxyzine because it can dry out the mucus in the lung and make breathing difficult. Tell your doctor immediately in case you are having trouble breathing. Avoid taking hydroxyzine in conjunction with alcohol or other medications that could cause the feeling of drowsiness.
Buspirone
Feeling anxious from time to time is normal, but anxiety that is constant and causes disruption to your health and life should be addressed by an expert medical professional. Psychiatrists have been specially trained to assist people suffering from anxiety issues. They have a variety of tools at their disposal including medications, cognitive behavior therapy, and other specialized treatments.
SSRIs are the first medication a psychiatrist will prescribe to someone suffering from anxiety. These drugs help regulate mood by boosting the levels of serotonin in your body. They also have a low dependency and abuse risk. They are effective for long-term symptom reduction and as a follow-up to other treatments for anxiety.
Benzodiazepines, such as Klonopin (clonazepam), Xanax (alprazolam), and Valium (diazepam) are fast-acting medications that provide instant anxiety relief. They work by affecting gamma aminobutyric acid, or GABA which is a neurochemical in your brain slowing it down and helping you feel more calm. Unlike SSRIs, they don't have the same number of potential adverse effects, however they are still addictive and may become habit-forming.
Buspirone is an antidepressant which has also been shown to be an effective anxiolytic, although it's most often used as a last-line treatment. It comes as an oral tablet and has a lower risk of side effects risk than most other medications. It can take some time to see full effects, therefore it is important to stick to your medication regimen.
In the end, it's your doctor's responsibility to prescribe the best anxiety medication for you. It is important to discuss your options with them, and they can explain how each type of medication works, what the side effects are, and if they have any other suggestions to treat your anxiety disorder. You can also take our short online test and be matched with a psychiatrist who is licensed to treat anxiety disorders.