Types of Anxiety Disorder Medication

Medications can be a valuable instrument to manage anxiety symptoms. Psychologists have extensive experience in the use of drugs and are able to formulate the right prescriptions to reduce the risk of side effects.

Treatment for anxiety disorders is typically three-pronged: psychotherapy, medication and exercise. SSRIs are the first-choice medications for treating anxiety, but they may take a few weeks for them to work.

SSRIs

Most anxiety disorders are treated with SSRIs. The latest SSRIs are less likely to cause adverse reactions than tricyclics older than tricyclics as well as monoamine oxide inhibitors (MAOIs) or tricyclic antidepressants. There are a variety of SSRIs have been approved by FDA to treat anxiety disorders that are generalized anxiety disorder. These include fluoxetine (aka Prozac), paraxetine, (aka Paxil), and sertraline, (aka Zoloft), as along with citalopram (aka Celexa).

These drugs increase serotonin levels in the brain. They may also help to increase norepinephrine as well as BDNF. They can be taken on their own or in conjunction with psychotherapy. SSRIs may cause nausea and digestive problems, but these side effects usually subside when the body is accustomed to the medication.

The exact mechanism of SSRIs' action on anxiety isn't well comprehended. However, it is believed that they block the reuptake of serotonin from the post-synaptic neuron and increase the concentration of serotonin in the synaptic gap. This increases the amount of signals that cross the synapse, and in turn decreases anxiety symptoms.

SSRIs can decrease anxiety and the severity of panic attacks. They can also help with depression and other mental health disorders that often co-occur with anxiety disorders. They are often used in conjunction with psychotherapy or other forms of cognitive behavior therapy, which could increase their effectiveness.

SSRIs aren't addictive unlike some other antidepressants. However, it is crucial to follow your doctor's instructions precisely. If you discontinue your medication suddenly, this can cause "discontinuation syndrome" and a recurrence of anxiety-related symptoms.

If SSRIs do not work for you, your doctor might suggest an alternative class of antidepressants, such as nefazodone, mirtazapine. These medications are also efficient, but they carry a higher risk of adverse effects than the more recent SSRIs.

SSRIs can interact with certain foods, including eggs, red meat dairy, certain vegetables and fruits. If you are taking these medicines 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 since it can increase the severity of some adverse effects.

Benzodiazepines

Benzodiazepines enhance the calming effects of certain chemical substances within the nervous system and brain. They work by increasing the effects of the neurotransmitter gamma aminobutyric acids (GABA), a substance which inhibits nerve activity. These drugs can be effective in treating anxiety, insomnia and other mental disorders. They can be addictive, and should be used only for a short time under medical supervision. Benzos can be dangerous when taken recreationally or in combination with other substances like alcohol.

Medications are often the first thing that people seek out when they suffer from an anxiety disorder however they're not the only option for treatment. Psychotherapy or talk therapy is also proven to be an effective way to reduce anxiety symptoms. There are many different psychotherapies, but cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) is the most popular and efficient. This kind of therapy helps you to alter your thinking and behavior in order to feel less anxious.

Alprazolam, chlordiazepoxide and diazepam, clorazepate, lorazepam and quazepam are among the most popular benzodiazepines. Each one has its own list of side effects however, they all share similar pharmacological properties. Clorazepate, for instance is more effective in treating seizure disorders compared to other benzodiazepines. Lorazepam, on other hand, is superior in treating anxiety disorders when compared to quazepam.

While benzodiazepines are efficient, they are not recommended for long-term use because they can trigger physical dependence and tolerance. Additionally, they could cause withdrawal symptoms if you stop taking them abruptly like sweating, a pounding heart and shaking. The symptoms can be uncomfortable and last for a long time. However they can be reduced when you reduce the medication slowly.

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 need to closely monitor your heart rate and blood pressure so that you don't have an extreme withdrawal reaction. If you're thinking about getting a benzodiazepine prescription, talk to your doctor about your history of using substances.

Beta-blockers

Beta-blockers are used to treat anxiety symptoms. These medications prevent adrenaline from binding to beta receptors in the nervous system. This prevents the hormone creating physical reactions, such as heart tremors or palpitations. These medications are usually used to treat high blood pressure and other cardiovascular conditions. However, they can be prescribed off-label for anxiety disorder levels.

If you are stressed, your body produces a chemical known as adrenaline which signals your body to prepare for fight or flight. Adrenaline is a binder to beta receptors in the heart and brain, which causes your heart to beat faster and may cause other physical reactions. Beta-blockers, an class of drugs that treat hypertension and other heart conditions are able to block the adrenaline binding, which helps to reduce the 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 great choice for those who require immediate relief from anxiety-related symptoms. For example, those who must give an address to the public or travel in a plane. They also make a great option for those suffering from anxiety and chronic heart conditions such as atherosclerosis and congestive cardiac failure.

Beta-blockers may reduce physical symptoms of anxiety, but they don't address the underlying causes. This is why they are typically prescribed as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes counseling and lifestyle adjustments. However, they can be an option for those who have tried other anti-anxiety medications but haven't found them to be effective or to cause unacceptable side effects.

Propranolol, atenolol, as well as other beta-blockers are all available. Your doctor will determine which one is right for you depending on your medical history and your health. These medications can cause adverse effects, such as fatigue or low blood pressure. It is crucial to discuss your options with your physician.

MAOIs

Monoamine oxide inhibitors (MAOIs) were created in the 1950s as an antidepressant, have proven to be effective for a variety of anxiety and depression disorders. They aren't as widely utilized as SSRIs or other antidepressants due to the strict dietary restrictions required and the risk of drug interactions. Some MAOIs are in tablet form and are taken orally, while others (such Emsam) are applied as a transdermal skin patch.

MAOIs inhibit the action of MAO and increase the amount of serotonin as well as norepinephrine that is found in the brain. These neurotransmitters play a role in mood, sleep and appetite, as in sexual function as well. MAOIs are anti-Anxiety Disorder Diagnosis (Cheaperseeker.Com). They are more likely than TCAs or SSRIs to cause side effects and come with warnings about 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 associated with anxiety disorders meaning. Your doctor may also suggest a relaxation technique or other at-home treatments to ease your symptoms.

The first MAOI, Iproniazid, was discovered during tuberculosis research in 1952. It was later discovered to have mood-enhancing properties and is believed to be the first antidepressant medication. Typically, MAOIs are used when other antidepressants do not perform, as they could cause serious side effects that require immediate medical attention.

It could cause a risky reaction resulting in high blood pressure when you take an MAOI when you eat foods that contain tyramine. Tyramine is present in many red meats and cheeses as well as in shellfish, fish and some dietary supplements. The symptoms of this reaction include nausea, throbbing headaches vomiting, as well as a fast heart rate. MAOIs can also interact with other medications and result in severe side effects such as suicidal thoughts or behavior.

Before prescribing MAOIs, your doctor will talk with you about the foods to avoid. The doctor will advise you against eating foods that contain tyramine when you are taking the medication. The doctor will also provide a list of foods that are safe to eat when taking MAOIs. This food guide can help stay clear of MAOI-related side effects.