Types of Anxiety Disorder Medication
The use of medications is a fantastic way to manage anxiety symptoms. Psychiatrists are trained in the prescription and use of medications. They can prescribe the right medication to minimize side effects.
Treatment for anxiety disorders is usually three-pronged: psychotherapy, medication and exercise. SSRIs are the first choice to treat anxiety, but they can take up to a week for them to work.
SSRIs
SSRIs are the drug that are most commonly prescribed for anxiety disorders. The most recent SSRIs have more favorable adverse effects than tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) and monoamine oxide inhibitors (MAOIs). A variety of SSRIs have been approved by the FDA to treat generalized anxiety disorder. They include 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 may aid in increasing norepinephrine levels and BDNF. They can be employed in conjunction with psychotherapy or alone. SSRIs may cause side effects, like nausea and digestive issues however, they tend to improve as the body gets used to the medication.
The precise mechanism behind the SSRIs' effect on anxiety is not well comprehended. It is believed that SSRIs hinder serotonin reuptake by post-synaptic neurons, and increase the amount of serotonin in the synaptic gaps. This increases the signaling across the synapses, which reduces anxiety symptoms.
SSRIs can decrease anxiety and the severity of panic attacks. They can also be used to treat depression as well as other mental disorders that are often associated with anxiety disorders. They can be used with cognitive behavior therapy or psychotherapy to increase their effectiveness.
SSRIs are not addictive, unlike other antidepressants. However, it is essential to follow your doctor's instructions precisely. If you suddenly stop taking your medication, it could result in "discontinuation" syndrome and anxiety symptoms to return.
If SSRIs aren't suitable for you, your doctor might look into a different kind of antidepressant, such as nefazodone or mirtazapine. These medications are also effective, but have a higher risk of side effects than the newer SSRIs.
SSRIs may interact with certain food items such as dairy products and eggs, red meat, and certain fruits and vegetables. If you are taking these medicines it is a good idea to avoid these foods. In addition it is recommended that you avoid drinking alcohol when taking SSRIs as it may make it more difficult to deal with certain adverse effects.
Benzodiazepines
Benzodiazepines increase the calming effects of certain chemicals within the brain and nervous system. They work by enhancing the effects of a neurotransmitter known as Gamma-aminobutyric Acid (GABA) which inhibits the nerves' activity. These drugs are effective in treating insomnia, anxiety disorders, and other psychological disorders. However they can be addictive and should only be used for brief durations under medical supervision. They can be harmful when used for recreational purposes, or combined with alcohol and other substances.
When people have anxiety disorders, they typically look to medication as the first option. However it's not the only option. Talk therapy or psychotherapy has also been shown as an effective method to decrease anxiety symptoms. There are many psychotherapies that can help, but the most popular and effective is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). This type of therapy teaches you to change your thoughts and behavior to are less stressed.
Alprazolam and chlordiazepoxide as well as diazep Clorazepate, lorazepam, and quazepam are the most commonly used benzodiazepines. They all have similar physical properties, but each has its own unique side effects and pharmacological profile. For instance, clorazepate can be more effective in treating seizure disorders than other benzodiazepines, and lorazepam is better for anxiety disorders than quazepam.
Although benzodiazepines can be very efficient, they are not advised for long-term use due to the fact that they can trigger physical dependence and tolerance. In addition, they may lead to withdrawal symptoms if you stop taking them abruptly for a short period of time, such as a pounding heart, sweating and shaking. The symptoms can be uncomfortable and last for a long time. However they can be slowed down when you reduce the medication gradually.
Benzodiazepines are highly addictive and should be taken only for a short time. In general, not more than four weeks. During this period, you'll need to closely monitor your blood pressure and heart rate so that you don't have an extreme withdrawal reaction. Speak to your doctor if you are considering the use of a benzodiazepine.
Beta-blockers
Beta-blockers are an type of medication that is used to alleviate anxiety symptoms. They block adrenaline from binding to beta receptors within your nervous system. This prevents the hormone creating physical reactions, such as heart tremors or palpitations. These medications are usually prescribed to treat high blood pressure and other cardiovascular ailments. However, they can be prescribed off-label for anxiety.
If you are stressed, your body releases a chemical known as Adrenaline. This chemical signals the body to prepare itself to fight or flee. panic anxiety disorder binds beta receptors found in the brain and heart which causes your heart to beat faster and causing other physical reactions. Beta-blockers are a class medication used to treat hypertension, and other heart ailments. They are able to block adrenaline's binding actions. This can help lower your heart rate and blood pressure.
Beta-blockers are quick to work, unlike SSRIs or benzodiazepines, which require weeks or even months to show an improvement in symptoms. They are a great option for those who need immediate relief from anxiety symptoms. For instance, those who have to give an address in public or travel in a plane. They can also be a great alternative for people suffering from anxiety and chronic heart problems such as atherosclerosis and congestive cardiac failure.
Although beta-blockers are effective in decreasing physical symptoms of anxiety, they don't treat the root of the disorder. They are therefore only prescribed in conjunction with an overall treatment plan that incorporates lifestyle adjustments and counseling. They can be beneficial for those who have tried anti-anxiety medication but found it to be ineffective or had intolerable side effects.
Propranolol, atenolol, as well as other beta-blockers are also available. Your doctor will decide which beta-blocker is right for you depending on your medical history and health status. These medications can trigger negative side effects, including fatigue or low blood pressure, so it is important to discuss your treatment options with your doctor.
MAOIs
Monoamine Oxase inhibitors (MAOIs) which were first created in the 1950s as an antidepressant, work for certain depression and anxiety disorders. However, they're not commonly used as often as SSRIs or other antidepressants due the need for strict dietary restrictions and the potential for interactions with drugs. Some MAOIs are taken orally 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 which increases the amount of serotonin as well as norepinephrine that is found in the brain. These neurotransmitters play an important role in sleep, mood, and appetite as in sexual function as well. MAOIs can reduce anxiety. However, they are more likely to trigger side effects than TCAs and SSRIs and come with boxed warnings for suicide.
In addition to the MAOIs listed below your doctor may prescribe other treatments or medications to aid in managing your symptoms. For instance, a beta-blocker (such as propranolol) is usually prescribed to relieve the physical symptoms of anxiety. Your doctor might suggest a relaxation method or other home remedies to alleviate your symptoms.
The first MAOI, Iproniazid, was discovered during tuberculosis research in 1952. It was later discovered to have mood-enhancing properties and is regarded as the first antidepressant medication. Generally, MAOIs are only used when other antidepressants don't work, as they may cause serious side effects that require immediate medical attention.
It could cause a risky reaction that results in high blood pressure when you take an MAOI when you eat foods that contain tyramine. Tyramine is present in a wide variety of red meats and cheeses as well as in shellfish, fish and some dietary supplement. Symptoms of this severe reaction include nausea, throbbing headaches, vomiting, and fast heart rate. MAOIs may also interact with other medications and can cause serious side effects, such as suicidal thoughts or behavior.
Before prescribing MAOIs to you, your doctor will talk with you about the foods to avoid. He or she will tell you to avoid eating food items that contain tyramine when you are taking the drug. The doctor will also provide a list of foods that are safe to eat while on MAOIs. This food guide can help stay clear of MAOI-related side effects.