Types of Anxiety Disorder Medication
Medications can be a valuable tool for managing anxiety symptoms. Psychiatrists are educated in the prescription and use of medications. They can prescribe the correct medication to minimize side effects.
Treatment for anxiety disorders is typically three-pronged, which includes psychotherapy, medication and exercise. SSRIs are the first choice of medications for treating anxiety can take several weeks to work.
SSRIs
The majority of anxiety disorders are treated with SSRIs. The latest SSRIs are less likely to cause adverse effects than older tricyclics and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or tricyclic antidepressants. There are a variety of SSRIs are FDA-approved to treat generalized anxiety disorder. These include fluoxetine (aka Prozac), paroxetine (aka Paxil), sertraline (aka Zoloft), and citalopram (aka Celexa).
These drugs can boost serotonin in the brain and could also help increase norepinephrine, or BDNF. They are able to be employed in conjunction with psychotherapy or alone. SSRIs may cause nausea and digestive issues, however these side effects typically subside as the body becomes accustomed to the medication.
The exact mechanism by which SSRIs are effective in treating anxiety is not fully understood. It is believed that SSRIs block the reuptake serotonin by the post-synaptic neurons, and increase the amount of serotonin in the synaptic gaps. This improves the signaling between the synapses and reduces anxiety symptoms.
In addition to decreasing anxiety, SSRIs may reduce the frequency and intensity of panic attacks. They also aid in the treatment of depression and other mental health conditions that are often associated with anxiety disorders. They can be combined with cognitive behavior therapy or psychotherapy to enhance their effectiveness.
SSRIs aren't addictive, unlike some other antidepressants. However, it is crucial to follow your doctor's prescriptions exactly. If you suddenly stop taking your medication, it may result in "discontinuation" syndrome and anxiety symptoms to come back.
If SSRIs don't work for you, then your physician might suggest an alternative class of antidepressants, such as nefazodone, or mirtazapine. These medications are also very effective, but have greater risk of adverse reactions than the more recent SSRIs.
SSRIs can interact with certain food items such as dairy products and eggs, red meat, as well as some fruits and vegetables. If you are taking these medicines it is a good idea to stay clear of these foods. Additionally, it is generally recommended that you avoid drinking alcohol while taking SSRIs because this can increase the severity of some adverse effects.
Benzodiazepines
Benzodiazepines enhance the calming effects of certain chemicals within the brain and nervous system. They enhance the effects of the neurotransmitter gamma aminobutyric acids (GABA) which is a substance that inhibits nerve activity. These drugs are effective in treating insomnia, anxiety and other mental disorders. However they can also be addictive and should only be used for short periods of time under medical supervision. Benzos are dangerous when used for recreational purposes or mixed with other drugs such as alcohol.
When people have anxiety disorders, they often look to medication as the first option. However it's not the only option. Talk therapy or psychotherapy has also been shown as a way to reduce anxiety disorder symptoms. There are a myriad of psychotherapies that can aid and improve your life, but the most well-known and effective is cognitive behavior therapy (CBT). This kind of psychotherapy teaches you how to change your behavior and thoughts so that you don't feel anxious as much.
Alprazolam, chlordiazepoxide, diazepam, clorazepate, lorazepam and quazepam are among the most commonly used benzodiazepines. Each has a unique set of side effects, however, they all share similar properties in pharmacology. Clorazepate, for instance, is more effective in treating seizure disorders than other benzodiazepines. Lorazepam, on other hand, is superior at treating anxiety disorders compared to quazepam.
Although benzodiazepines may be efficient, they are not recommended for long-term use because they can cause physical dependence and tolerance. They can also cause withdrawal symptoms, such as a pounding of the heart shaking, sweating, and shaking, if you suddenly stop taking the medication. The symptoms can be extremely uncomfortable and last for a long time however, they can be slowed down by gradually reducing the medication.
Benzodiazepines are extremely addictive and should be used only for a short duration - typically not more than 4 weeks. During this time, you will have to be vigilant about your blood pressure and heart rate to ensure you don't suffer an extreme withdrawal reaction. If you're considering getting a prescription for benzodiazepine, talk to your doctor about your past history of abuse.
Beta-blockers
Beta-blockers can be employed to treat anxiety-related issues. They prevent adrenaline from binding to beta receptors in your nervous system, which prevents the hormone from triggering physical responses like heart palpitations and tremors. These drugs are typically used to treat high blood pressure and other cardiovascular conditions. However, they can be prescribed off-label to treat anxiety.
When you feel anxious your body releases a chemical known as Adrenaline. This chemical signals your body to prepare itself for fight or flight. Adrenaline binds to beta receptors in the brain and heart which causes your heart to beat faster and may cause other physical reactions. Beta-blockers are a class medication used to treat hypertension and other heart conditions. They work by blocking adrenaline's binding. This can help lower your blood pressure and heart rate.
Unlike SSRIs and benzodiazepines that take weeks or months to produce a noticeable improvement in your symptoms, beta-blockers are fast-acting. They are a good option for those who need immediate relief from anxiety symptoms. For example, those who are required to deliver a public speech or fly in an airplane. They can also be a great alternative for people suffering from anxiety and chronic heart issues, such as atherosclerosis or congestive heart failure.
Beta-blockers can reduce the physical symptoms of anxiety, but they don't address the root causes. They are only prescribed as part of an extensive treatment plan that incorporates lifestyle adjustments and counseling. However, they can be an effective option for those who have tried other anti-anxiety drugs and have not found them to be effective or to cause uncontrollable side effects.
There are many different kinds of beta-blockers, such as propranolol and atenolol. Your doctor will decide the best one for you according to your medical history and health status. These medications can trigger side effects such as low blood pressure or fatigue. It is crucial to discuss the options for treatment with your doctor.
MAOIs
In the 1950s, monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) are effective antidepressants for some anxiety and depression disorders. They aren't as frequently employed as SSRIs and other antidepressants because of the strict dietary restrictions needed as well as the risk of drug interactions. Some MAOIs are in tablet form and are taken orally, while others (such Emsam) are applied as a transdermal patch for skin.
MAOIs block the action of MAO and increase the amount of norepinephrine as well as serotonin in the brain. These neurotransmitters play a role in mood, sleep, appetite, and sexual function. MAOIs can reduce anxiety. However, they are more likely to trigger side effects than TCAs and SSRIs and are accompanied by warnings in boxes for suicide.
In addition to the MAOIs mentioned below, your doctor might prescribe other medications or treatments that can aid in managing your symptoms. For instance, a beta-blocker (such as propranolol) is usually prescribed to relieve the physical symptoms of anxiety. disorders anxiety may recommend a relaxation technique or other treatments at home to help ease your symptoms.
Iproniazid was the first MAOI discovered in 1952 as part of research into tuberculosis. It was soon found to have properties that boost mood and is regarded as the first antidepressant medication. MAOIs should only be used in cases where other antidepressants have failed, because they can cause serious side-effects that require immediate medical attention.
If you take an MAOI and eat foods that contain Tyramine, a chemical found in a variety of cheeses, red meats, shellfish, fish, as well as some dietary supplements, it can trigger an unintentional reaction that results in high blood pressure. This severe reaction can cause headache pain that is throbbing, nausea, vomiting and a rapid heartbeat. MAOIs can also interact with other medications and trigger serious side effects, such as suicidal thoughts, behaviors, and even suicidal thoughts.
Your doctor will discuss your dietary needs with you prior to prescribing MAOIs. The doctor will advise you to avoid eating any food items that contain tyramine when you are taking the drug. The doctor will also provide an inventory of food that is safe to eat when taking MAOIs. This food guide can help you avoid MAOI-related side effects.