Types of Anxiety Disorder Medication

Medicines are a great option to manage anxiety symptoms. Psychiatrists are trained in the use and prescription of medications. They can prescribe the appropriate medication to reduce the risk of side effects.

Typical anxiety disorder treatment is three-pronged and includes therapy, exercise and medication. SSRIs, the first option of medication to treat anxiety, can take up to several weeks to take effect.

SSRIs

The majority of anxiety disorders are treated with SSRIs. The most recent SSRIs have better adverse effect profiles than older tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). Several SSRIs are FDA-approved for treating generalized anxiety disorder diagnosis anxiety disorder. These include fluoxetine (aka Prozac), paroxetine (aka Paxil) and sertraline (aka Zoloft), and citalopram (aka Celexa).

These drugs can boost serotonin in the brain and could also help boost norepinephrine or BDNF. They can be used alone or in conjunction with psychotherapy. SSRIs can cause nausea and digestive issues, however these side effects usually subside when the body is accustomed to the medication.

The exact mechanism by which SSRIs work for anxiety is not fully understood. However it is believed that they hinder the reuptake process of serotonin by the post-synaptic nerve and increase the concentration of serotonin in the synaptic gap. This improves the signaling between the synapses, which reduces anxiety symptoms.

SSRIs can reduce anxiety and the intensity of panic attacks. They can also be employed to treat depression and other mental disorders that are often associated with anxiety disorders. They can be used with cognitive behavior therapy or psychotherapy to improve their effectiveness.

SSRIs aren't addictive, unlike some other antidepressants. It is nevertheless important to follow the prescriptions of your doctor. If you discontinue your medication suddenly and suddenly, it can trigger "discontinuation syndrome" and a recurrence of anxiety symptoms.

If SSRIs are not suitable for your needs, your doctor may try a different class of antidepressants, like nefazodone or mirtazapine. These medications may be effective, but they have a greater chance of causing adverse reactions than the more recent SSRIs.

SSRIs can interact with certain food items such as dairy products and eggs, red meat and some fruits and veggies. It is best to avoid these foods if taking these medications. It is also recommended that you avoid alcohol when taking SSRIs since it may cause some adverse effects.

Benzodiazepines

Benzodiazepines increase the calming effects of certain chemicals within the nervous system and brain. They enhance the effects of the neurotransmitter gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA), a substance that suppresses nerve activity. These drugs are effective in treating insomnia, anxiety 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 in combination with other substances such as alcohol.

If someone suffers from anxiety disorder without medication disorders, they usually look to medication as the first option. However it's not the only option. Psychotherapy, or talk therapy, has also been proven to reduce the symptoms of anxiety disorder. There are a myriad of psychotherapies, but cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is the most well-known and effective. This kind of therapy teaches you to alter your thinking and behavior in order to feel less anxious.

The most commonly used benzodiazepines are alprazolam (Xanax) as well as chlordiazepoxide (Librium) diazepam (Valium), clorazepate (Tranxene) as well as lorazepam (Ativan), and the quazepam (Dalmane). They all share similar physical properties, but each has its own distinct side effect profile. Clorazepate, for instance is more effective in treating seizure disorders compared to other benzodiazepines. Lorazepam, on the other hand, is better at treating anxiety disorders in comparison to Quazepam.

Although benzodiazepines may be effective, they are not recommended for long-term use because they can cause physical dependence and tolerance. They can also trigger withdrawal symptoms, like a pounding of the heart shaking, sweating, and shaking, if you suddenly stop taking them. The symptoms can be extremely uncomfortable and last for several weeks, but they can be slowed down by gradually reducing the medication.

Benzodiazepines are extremely addictive and should only be used for a short period of time - usually no more than 4 weeks. You will need How To Cope With Anxiety Disorder Without Medication monitor your blood pressure, heart rate and breathing closely during this period to ensure that you do not have an extreme reaction. If you're considering getting a benzodiazepine prescription, speak with your doctor about your past history of abuse.

Beta-blockers

Beta-blockers are a type of medication that is used to alleviate anxiety symptoms. These medications prevent adrenaline from binding to beta receptors in the nervous system. This is a way to stop the hormone from triggering physical reactions like heart palpitations or tremors. These drugs are usually used to treat generalized anxiety disorder high blood pressure and other cardiovascular conditions however they can be prescribed off-label in cases of anxiety.

When you're stressed your body produces a chemical known as adrenaline that signals the body to prepare for fight or flight. Adrenaline binds with beta receptors in the heart and brain, which causes your heart rate to increase and can trigger other physical reactions. Beta-blockers are class medications used to treat hypertension and other heart ailments. They work by blocking adrenaline's binding actions. This assists in lowering your heart rate and blood pressure.

Beta-blockers can be used quickly, in contrast to SSRIs or benzodiazepines which can require weeks or even months to show a difference in symptoms. They are a good choice for those who require immediate relief from anxiety-related symptoms. For instance, people who have to give a public speech or fly in an airplane. They also make a great option for people with anxiety and chronic heart problems, such as 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. They are useful for people who have tried anti-anxiety medication and found it ineffective or had unpalatable side effects.

Propranolol, atenolol, and other beta-blockers are available. Your doctor will determine the best one for you based on your medical history and your health. These medications can trigger adverse effects, such as fatigue or low blood pressure. It is essential to discuss treatment options with your physician.

MAOIs

Monoamine oxide inhibitors (MAOIs), created in the 1950s as an antidepressant, are effective for certain anxiety and depression disorders. They aren't as widely employed as SSRIs and other antidepressants because of the strict dietary restrictions needed and the risk of drug interactions. Some MAOIs are taken by mouth in tablet form, while others (such as Emsam) come in the form of a transdermal patch that's applied to the skin every day.

MAOIs block the action of MAO, thereby increasing the amount of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. These neurotransmitters play a part in sleep, mood and appetite as in sexual function as well. MAOIs also have anti-anxiety effects. However they are more likely to trigger side effects than TCAs and SSRIs and come with warnings on suicide in a box.

Your doctor may prescribe additional medications or treatments to help manage your symptoms in addition the MAOIs below. Beta-blockers, such as propranolol, is usually prescribed to alleviate the physical symptoms associated with anxiety. Your doctor may suggest relaxation techniques, or other home treatments to alleviate your symptoms.

Iproniazid was the first MAOI discovered in 1952 as part of research into tuberculosis. It was soon found to have mood-elevating properties and is regarded as the first antidepressant medication. MAOIs should only be used after other antidepressants have failed, since they can trigger serious side-effects that require immediate medical attention.

If you use an MAOI and consume foods containing Tyramine, a chemical found in a variety of cheeses, red meats, shellfish, fish, as well as some dietary supplements, it could trigger an unintentional reaction that results in high blood pressure. This severe reaction could cause headache pain that is throbbing nausea, vomiting, and a rapid heartbeat. MAOIs may also interact with other medications and cause serious side effects, such as suicidal thoughts or behaviors.

Before prescribing MAOIs to you, your doctor will talk with you about the foods you should avoid. He or she will tell you to stay clear of eating foods that contain tyramine while you take the medication. He or she will also provide the list of foods that are safe to consume when taking MAOIs. The food guide provided will help to prevent MAOI-related adverse effects.