Types of Anxiety Disorder Medication

The use of medications is a fantastic way to manage anxiety symptoms. Psychiatrists are educated in the prescription and use of medications. They can prescribe the appropriate medication to reduce the risk of side effects.

Treatment for anxiety disorders is usually three-pronged, which includes therapy, medication and exercise. SSRIs are the first-choice medication to treat anxiety disorder separation, however 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 effects than older tricyclics and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or tricyclic antidepressants. A variety of SSRIs are FDA-approved for treating generalized anxiety disorder, including fluoxetine (aka Prozac), paroxetine (aka Paxil), sertraline (aka Zoloft), and citalopram (aka Celexa).

These drugs increase serotonin levels in the brain. They can also aid in the increase of norepinephrine and BDNF. They can be taken on their own or in conjunction with psychotherapy. SSRIs can have adverse effects, such as nausea and digestive problems however, they tend to improve as the body becomes used to the medication.

The exact mechanism of SSRIs' action on anxiety disorders description (see this website) is not well understood. However it is believed they inhibit the reuptake of serotonin from the post-synaptic neuron and increase the amount of serotonin within the synaptic gap. This increases the amount of signals that cross the synapse, and in turn decreases anxiety symptoms.

SSRIs can reduce depressive anxiety disorder and increase the frequency of panic attacks. They can also be used to treat depression as well as other mental conditions that are frequently associated with anxiety eating disorder disorders. They can be combined with cognitive behavior therapy or psychotherapy to increase their effectiveness.

In contrast to other classes of antidepressants SSRIs are not believed to be addictive. However, it is crucial to follow your doctor's prescriptions exactly. If you suddenly stop taking your medication, it may cause "discontinuation" syndrome and anxiety symptoms to come back.

If SSRIs are not suitable for you, your doctor might consider a different type of antidepressants, such as mirtazapine or nefazodone. These drugs can also be effective, but they are more prone to the risk of adverse effects than the more recent SSRIs.

SSRIs may interact with certain foods such as dairy products such as red meat, eggs as well as some fruits and vegetables. It is advised to avoid these foods if you're taking these medications. Additionally, it is generally recommended that you do not drink alcohol when taking SSRIs because this can increase the severity of some adverse reactions.

Benzodiazepines

Benzodiazepines increase the calming effects of certain chemicals within the nervous system and brain. They work by enhancing the effects of a neurotransmitter called Gamma-aminobutyric Acid (GABA) which inhibits the activity of nerves. These drugs are effective in treating insomnia, anxiety disorders and other mental disorders. However they can be addictive and should only be used for short durations of time under medical supervision. Benzos are dangerous when taken recreationally or mixed with other drugs like alcohol.

It is not uncommon for medications to be the first thing people look for when they have 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 symptoms. There are many different psychotherapies that can help, but the most popular and effective is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). This type of psychotherapy can teach you how to modify your thoughts and behaviors so that you don't feel anxious as often.

Alprazolam, chlordiazepoxide and diazepam, clorazepate and quazepam are the most common benzodiazepines. They all share the same pharmacological properties, but each has its own unique side effects profile. Clorazepate for instance, is more effective in treating seizures compared to other benzodiazepines. Lorazepam, on contrary, is more effective in treating anxiety disorders when in comparison to the quazepam.

Although benzodiazepines can be very effective, they are not advised for long-term use due to the fact that they can cause physical dependence and tolerance. They can also cause withdrawal symptoms, such as a heart pounding shaking, sweating, and shaking if you abruptly stop taking the medication. Symptoms can be very unpleasant and can last for a long time however, they can be reduced by gradually reducing the medication.

Benzodiazepines are extremely addictive and should only be used for a short period of time - usually no more than 4 weeks. You will need to monitor your blood pressure, heart rate and breathing throughout this time to ensure that you don't have an extreme reaction. If you're thinking about getting a benzodiazepine prescription, speak with your doctor about your history of substance abuse.

Beta-blockers

Beta-blockers can be used to treat anxiety-related symptoms. These medications stop adrenaline from binding to beta receptors in your nervous system, which prevents the hormone from triggering physical responses like heart tremors and heart palpitations. These drugs are typically used to treat high blood pressure and other cardiovascular ailments. However, they can be prescribed off-label to treat anxiety.

When you are anxious, your body produces a chemical called adrenaline that signals the body to prepare for fight or flight. Adrenaline binds beta receptors in the brain and heart, causing your heart to beat faster and causing other physical reactions. Beta-blockers are class medications that treat hypertension and other heart-related conditions. They work by blocking adrenaline's binding actions. This can help lower your blood pressure and heart rate.

Beta-blockers can be used quickly, in contrast to SSRIs or benzodiazepines that take weeks or even months to show improvement in symptoms. They are a good choice for those who require immediate relief from the symptoms of anxiety. For example, those who must give an address to the public or travel in a plane. In addition, they are an excellent choice for those who have both anxiety and a chronic heart condition like atherosclerosis or congestive cardiac failure.

While beta-blockers can be effective in decreasing physical symptoms of anxiety, they fail to 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 medications for anxiety and panic disorder but found it to be ineffective or caused unacceptable side effects.

Propranolol, atenolol, and other beta-blockers are all available. Your doctor will determine which beta-blocker is right for you, based on your medical history and current health condition. These medications may cause adverse effects, such as low blood pressure or fatigue. It is important to discuss the options for treatment with your doctor.

MAOIs

The first MAOIs were developed in the 1950s. monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) are effective antidepressants for a variety of anxiety and depression. They aren't as widely employed as SSRIs and other antidepressants due the strict dietary restrictions required as well as the risk of interactions with other drugs. Some MAOIs are in tablet form and can be taken orally, whereas others (such Emsam) are applied as a transdermal skin patch.

MAOIs block the actions of MAO and increase the amount of norepinephrine and serotonin in the brain. These neurotransmitters play a role in sleep, mood, appetite, and sexual function. MAOIs are anti-anxiety. However they are more likely to cause adverse effects than TCAs and SSRIs and are accompanied by warnings in boxes for suicide.

Your doctor may prescribe additional medications or treatments to treat your symptoms in addition to the MAOIs below. Beta-blockers, such as propranolol is frequently prescribed to ease physical symptoms of anxiety. Your doctor might suggest a relaxation method, or other home treatments to alleviate your symptoms.

The original MAOI, Iproniazid, was discovered during research into tuberculosis in 1952. It was soon discovered to have mood-elevating qualities and is considered to be the first antidepressant medication. MAOIs should only be taken in cases where other antidepressants have failed as they can cause serious side effects that require immediate medical attention.

It could trigger a serious reaction that results in high blood pressure when you take an MAOI while eating foods that contain tyramine. Tyramine is found in many cheeses and red meats as well as in fish, shellfish and a few dietary supplements. The symptoms of this reaction include nausea, throbbing headaches vomiting, as well as a fast heart rate. MAOIs can also interact other medications and cause severe side effects, like suicidal thoughts and behavior.

Your doctor will discuss your dietary needs with you prior to prescribing MAOIs. The doctor will advise you to avoid eating foods containing tyramine while taking the drug. He or she will also provide a list of food items that are safe to consume while on MAOIs. This food guide will help you avoid MAOI-related symptoms.