Types of Anxiety Disorder Medication
Medications are a great way to manage anxiety symptoms. Psychologists are trained in the prescription and use of medications. They can prescribe the correct medication to minimize the adverse effects.
Treatment for anxiety disorders is typically three-pronged, including medication, psychotherapy and exercise. SSRIs are the first-choice medication to treat anxiety, but they can take up to a week for them to work.
SSRIs
SSRIs are the drugs 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 are FDA-approved for treating https://writeablog.net/fridgegram3/need-inspiration-check-out-anxiety-disorder-symptoms , including fluoxetine (aka Prozac), paroxetine (aka Paxil), sertraline (aka Zoloft), and citalopram (aka Celexa).
These drugs boost serotonin levels in the brain. They may also help to increase norepinephrine as well as BDNF. They can be used alone or in conjunction with psychotherapy. SSRIs can cause nausea or digestive issues, however these effects tend to diminish as the body gets used to the medication.
The exact mechanism of SSRIs' action on anxiety is not well known. However, it is believed that they hinder the reuptake process of serotonin from the post-synaptic neuron and increase the amount of serotonin in the synaptic gap. This increases the signaling across the synapses, which reduces anxiety symptoms.
SSRIs can reduce anxiety and increase the frequency of panic attacks. They can also be employed to treat depression and other mental conditions that are often associated with anxiety disorders. They can be combined with psychotherapy or cognitive behavior therapy to improve their effectiveness.
Unlike some other classes of antidepressants SSRIs are not believed to be addictive. Nevertheless, it is important to follow the prescriptions of your doctor exactly. If you suddenly stop taking your medication, it could result in "discontinuation" syndrome and anxiety symptoms to return.
If SSRIs are not suitable for your needs, your doctor may consider a different type of antidepressant, such as nefazodone or mirtazapine. These medications are also very effective, but carry a higher risk of adverse reactions than the more recent SSRIs.
SSRIs may interact with certain food items such as dairy products and red meat, eggs and certain fruits and vegetables. If you are taking these medicines it is a wise idea to avoid these foods. In addition it is recommended that you do not drink alcohol while taking SSRIs since it can cause more severe side effects.
Benzodiazepines
Benzodiazepines enhance the calming effects of certain chemicals found in the nervous system and brain. They work by increasing the effects of the neurotransmitter gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA), a substance which inhibits nerve activity. These drugs are effective in treating insomnia, anxiety disorders and various mental disorders. However, they can be addictive and should only be used for short durations under medical supervision. Benzos may be harmful if taken recreationally or mixed with other substances such as alcohol.
It is not uncommon for medications to be the first thing people turn to when they're suffering from an anxiety disorder, but they're not the only treatment option. Psychotherapy or talk therapy is also proven to be an effective method to decrease anxiety symptoms. There are a myriad of psychotherapies, but cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is the most well-known and effective. This type of psychotherapy teaches you how to change your behavior and thoughts so that you don't feel stressed as much.
The most popular benzodiazepines include alprazolam (Xanax), chlordiazepoxide (Librium), diazepam (Valium) Clorazepate (Tranxene) as well as Lorazepam (Ativan), and the quazepam (Dalmane). Each one has its own set of adverse effects, but they all have similar pharmacological properties. Clorazepate, for instance is more effective in treating seizure disorders than other benzodiazepines. Lorazepam, on other hand, is superior in treating anxiety disorders when than quazepam.
Benzodiazepines are extremely effective, but they should not be used for long periods of time since they can lead to physical dependence and tolerance. They can also cause withdrawal symptoms, such as an increase in heart rate as well as sweating and shaking, if you suddenly stop taking the medication. The symptoms can be extremely uncomfortable and last for several weeks, but they can be reduced by gradually reducing the medication.
Benzodiazepines can be extremely addictive and should only be used for a short time - usually no more than 4 weeks. During this period, you'll be required to monitor your heart rate and blood pressure to ensure you don't suffer an extreme withdrawal reaction. If you're thinking of getting a benzodiazepine prescription, consult your physician about your history of using substances.
Beta-blockers
Beta-blockers are a type of medication that can help to alleviate anxiety symptoms. These drugs stop adrenaline from binding to beta receptors in your nervous system, preventing the hormone from triggering physical reactions such as heart palpitations and tremors. These medications are usually used to treat high blood pressure and other cardiovascular issues. However they are also available off-label for anxiety.
When you are anxious your body produces a chemical called adrenaline, which signals the body to prepare for fight or flight. Adrenaline binds with beta receptors in the brain and heart and causes your heart rate to increase and may cause other physical reactions. Beta-blockers, which are an class of drugs that is used to treat hypertension and other heart conditions, work by blocking the binding action of adrenaline which can help reduce the heart rate and blood pressure.
Contrary to SSRIs and benzodiazepines, which take a few weeks or months to show a significant improvement in your symptoms, beta-blockers are fast-acting. This makes them an excellent option for people who need immediate relief from their anxiety like those who need to deliver a speech in public or fly on an airplane. They also make a great option for those suffering from anxiety and chronic heart conditions like atherosclerosis or congestive heart failure.
Beta-blockers can help reduce physical symptoms of anxiety but they don't address the underlying causes. They are therefore only prescribed as part of an extensive treatment plan that incorporates lifestyle adjustments and counseling. They can be beneficial for those who have tried medication for anxiety and found it to be ineffective, or caused unacceptable side effects.
There are many different kinds of beta-blockers such as propranolol and atenolol. Your doctor will determine the best one for you according to your medical history and health status. The use of these medicines can cause negative side effects, including fatigue or low blood pressure It is therefore important to discuss your treatment options with your physician.
MAOIs
Monoamine Oxase inhibitors (MAOIs), developed in the 1950s as an antidepressant, work for certain depression and anxiety disorders. However, they aren't utilized as often as SSRIs or other antidepressants due the requirement for strict dietary restrictions and the potential for interactions with other drugs. Some MAOIs are taken orally in tablet form while others (such as Emsam) are available in the form of a transdermal patch that's applied to the skin every day.
MAOIs block the action of MAO and increase the amount of norepinephrine as well as serotonin in the brain. These neurotransmitters play an important role in sleep, mood, and appetite as also in sexual function. MAOIs also have anti-anxiety effects. They are more likely than TCAs or SSRIs to cause adverse effects and carry warnings regarding suicide.
In addition to the MAOIs listed below, your doctor may prescribe other treatments or medications to help manage your symptoms. A beta-blocker, such as propranolol is frequently prescribed to ease physical symptoms of anxiety. Your doctor may recommend a relaxation method or other home remedies to help ease your symptoms.
The first MAOI, Iproniazid, was discovered during tuberculosis research in 1952. It was soon discovered to be a mood-enhancing drug and is considered the original antidepressant drug. Typically, MAOIs are used when other antidepressants don't work, since they can cause serious side effects that require immediate medical attention.
If you take an MAOI and eat foods that contain the chemical tyramine that is found in many red meats, cheeses, shellfish, fish, and some dietary supplements, it can trigger a dangerous reaction that results in high blood pressure. This serious reaction can result in an intense headache, nausea, vomiting and a rapid heartbeat. MAOIs can also interact with other medications and trigger serious side effects, like suicidal thoughts, behaviors, and even suicidal thoughts.
Your doctor will discuss your diet needs with you prior to prescribing MAOIs. He or she will advise you against eating foods that contain tyramine when taking the drug. He or she might also provide you with a list of food that is safe to eat when taking MAOIs. The food guide provided will help prevent MAOI-related side effects.