Types of Anxiety Disorder Medication

Medicines are a great option to treat anxiety-related symptoms. Psychiatrists are trained extensively in the use of drugs and are able to formulate the right prescriptions to minimize side effects.

Treatment for anxiety disorders is usually three-pronged, which includes medication, psychotherapy and exercise. SSRIs, the first option of medication to treat anxiety can take several weeks to be effective.

SSRIs

The majority of anxiety disorders are treated with SSRIs. The more recent SSRIs are less likely to trigger adverse effects than tricyclics older than tricyclics as well as monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or tricyclic antidepressants. 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 boost serotonin levels in the brain. They can also aid in the increase of norepinephrine as well as BDNF. They can be utilized in conjunction with psychotherapy or alone. SSRIs may cause negative effects, such as stomach and nausea, but these usually improve as the body gets used to the medication.

The precise mechanism behind how SSRIs work for anxiety isn't fully understood. It is believed that SSRIs hinder serotonin reuptake by post-synaptic neurons and increase the amount of serotonin that is present in the synaptic gaps. This increases the amount of signals that cross the synapse, which in turn decreases anxiety symptoms.

SSRIs can decrease anxiety and the intensity of panic attacks. They can also help with depression and other mental health conditions that often co-occur with anxiety disorders. They can be used with cognitive behavior therapy or psychotherapy to enhance their effectiveness.

Unlike some other classes of antidepressants, SSRIs are not believed to be addictive. It is still crucial to follow the doctor's instructions. If you suddenly stop taking your medication, it could cause "discontinuation" syndrome and anxiety symptoms to come back.

If SSRIs don't work for you, your doctor might suggest another class of antidepressants like nefazodone or mirtazapine. These medications are also effective, but carry more risk of having adverse effects than the more recent SSRIs.

SSRIs may interact with certain food items such as dairy products, eggs, red meat and certain fruits and vegetables. If you are taking these medications it is a good idea to stay clear of these foods. In addition it is recommended that you do not drink alcohol while taking SSRIs because this can cause more severe adverse reactions.

Benzodiazepines

Benzodiazepines enhance the calming effects of certain chemicals found in the brain and nervous system. They work by increasing the effects of the neurotransmitter gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) which is a chemical which inhibits nerve activity. These medications can be very 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 can be dangerous if taken recreationally or in combination with other substances, including alcohol.

The use of medication is often the first thing that people turn to when they suffer from an anxiety disorder however they're not the only option for treatment. Psychotherapy or talk therapy has also been shown as an effective method to decrease anxiety disorder symptoms. There are many different psychotherapies, but cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is the most well-known and effective. This type of therapy teaches you to change your thinking and behavior to feel less anxious.

Alprazolam, chlordiazepoxide, diazepam, clorazepate, lorazepam and quazepam are the most popular benzodiazepines. They all share the same physical properties, but each has its own unique side effect characteristic. Clorazepate, for instance is more effective in treating seizure disorders compared to other benzodiazepines. Lorazepam, on other hand, is superior at treating anxiety disorders compared to the quazepam.

While benzodiazepines are efficient, they aren't recommended for long-term use as they can trigger physical dependence and tolerance. In addition, they can lead to withdrawal symptoms when you stop taking them suddenly like sweating, a pounding heart and shaking. The symptoms can be unpleasant and last for a few weeks. However they can be slowed down when you reduce the medication gradually.

Benzodiazepines can be extremely addictive and should be used only for a short time - usually no more than 4 weeks. During this period, you'll have to be vigilant about your blood pressure and heart rate so that you don't have a severe withdrawal reaction. If you're thinking about getting a benzodiazepine prescription, consult your physician about your history of using substances.

Beta-blockers

Beta-blockers can be used to treat separation anxiety disorder symptoms in adults-related symptoms. They block adrenaline from binding with beta receptors in your nervous system. This prevents the hormone creating physical reactions, such as heart palpitations or tremors. These drugs are typically prescribed to treat high blood-pressure and other cardiovascular conditions. However they can also be prescribed off-label to treat anxiety.

If you are stressed, your body produces a chemical called adrenaline, which signals the body to prepare for fight or flight. Adrenaline binds beta receptors found in the brain and heart which causes your heart to beat faster and triggering other physical reactions. Beta-blockers are a class of medication used to treat hypertension, and other heart-related conditions. They block adrenaline's binding actions. This assists in lowering your blood pressure and heart rate.

Unlike SSRIs and benzodiazepines, which take a few weeks or months to show a significant improvement in your symptoms, beta-blockers work quickly. They are a good choice for people who require immediate relief from what anxiety disorder feels like-related symptoms. For example, those who are required to deliver an address in public or travel in an airplane. They are also an excellent choice for those who suffer from anxiety as well as a chronic heart issue, 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 changes and counseling. They are useful for people who have tried anti-anxiety medication but found it to be ineffective or had unpalatable side effects.

There are a variety of different kinds of beta-blockers, such as propranolol and atenolol. Your doctor will decide the best drugs for generalized anxiety disorder beta-blocker for you, based on your medical background and current health status. These medications can trigger side effects such as fatigue or low blood pressure. It is essential to discuss the options for treatment with your doctor.

MAOIs

Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) which were first created in the 1950s as an antidepressant, have proven to be effective for certain depression and anxiety disorders. They aren't as frequently utilized as SSRIs or other antidepressants due to the strict dietary restrictions needed as well as the risk of interactions with other drugs. Some MAOIs can be taken by mouth in tablet form, while others (such as Emsam) come in the form of a transdermal patch applied to the skin each day.

MAOIs interfere with the actions of MAO, thereby increasing the amount of serotonin and norepinephrine that is found in the brain. These neurotransmitters play a role in sleep, mood appetite, sexual function. MAOIs also have anti-Anxiety Disorder Medication Side Effects effects. However, they are more likely to trigger side effects than TCAs and SSRIs and carry boxed warnings for suicide.

Your doctor may prescribe additional medicines or treatments to help manage your symptoms in addition to the MAOIs listed below. Beta-blockers, such as propranolol is frequently prescribed to reduce physical symptoms that are associated with anxiety. Your doctor may suggest a relaxation technique or other home remedies to alleviate your symptoms.

The first MAOI, Iproniazid, was discovered during tuberculosis research in 1952. It was soon discovered to have mood-elevating properties and is regarded as the first antidepressant medication. Typically, MAOIs can only be used when other antidepressants don't work, since they can cause serious adverse effects that require immediate medical attention.

It can cause a dangerous reaction that can result in high blood pressure when you take an MAOI when you eat foods that contain tyramine. Tyramine is present in a variety of red meats and cheeses as well as in shellfish, fish and some dietary supplements. Symptoms of this severe reaction include a throbbing headache, nausea vomiting, as well as a fast heart rate. MAOIs can also interact with other medications and cause severe side effects like suicidal thoughts and behaviors.

Your doctor will discuss your dietary requirements with you prior to prescribing MAOIs. They will instruct you to stay clear of eating food items that contain tyramine when you are taking the medication. He or she will also give a list of foods that are safe to eat when taking MAOIs. This food guide will help you avoid MAOI-related symptoms.