Types of Anxiety Disorder Medication

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

Typical anxiety disorder treatment is three-pronged and consists of psychotherapy, exercise and medication. SSRIs are the most popular choice of medications for treating anxiety can take several weeks to work.

SSRIs

SSRIs are the drug that are most commonly prescribed for anxiety disorders. The latest SSRIs are less likely to cause adverse effects than tricyclics older than tricyclics as well as monoamine oxide inhibitors (MAOIs) or tricyclic antidepressants. A variety of SSRIs are FDA-approved to treat generalized anxiety disorder medication anxiety disorder, such as fluoxetine (aka Prozac), paroxetine (aka Paxil) sertraline (aka Zoloft), and citalopram (aka Celexa).

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

The precise mechanism behind how SSRIs are effective in treating anxiety is not understood fully. It is believed that SSRIs block serotonin reuptake in post-synaptic neurons and increase the amount of serotonin in the synaptic gaps. This enhances the signaling across the synapses, which reduces anxiety symptoms.

SSRIs can decrease anxiety and increase the frequency of panic attacks. They can also be used to treat depression and other mental conditions that are frequently associated with anxiety disorders. They can be utilized in conjunction with psychotherapy and other types of cognitive behavior therapy, which can enhance their effectiveness.

SSRIs aren't addictive unlike other antidepressants. It is nevertheless crucial to follow the doctor's instructions. If you suddenly stop taking your medication, it could result in "discontinuation" syndrome and anxiety symptoms to come back.

If SSRIs aren't suitable for your needs, your doctor may look into a different kind of antidepressants, such as mirtazapine or nefazodone. These medications may also be effective, however they are more at risk of adverse side effects than the newer SSRIs.

SSRIs can interact with certain foods such as dairy products such as eggs, red meat and some fruits and veggies. It is recommended to stay clear of these foods if you're taking these medications. In addition it is recommended that you avoid drinking alcohol while taking SSRIs as it may cause more severe adverse effects.

Benzodiazepines

Benzodiazepines enhance the calming effects of certain chemicals in the brain and nervous system. They increase the effects of the neurotransmitter gamma aminobutyric acids (GABA) which is a chemical which inhibits nerve activity. These drugs are effective in treating anxiety disorders, insomnia and various mental disorders. They can be addictive and should only be used for short periods under medical supervision. Benzos are dangerous when taken in a recreational manner, or when combined with alcohol and other substances.

The use of medication is often the first thing that people seek out when they have an anxiety disorder However, they're not the only treatment option. Psychotherapy or talk therapy is also proven to be an effective way to reduce anxiety disorder symptoms. There are a variety of psychotherapies, but cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is the most popular and effective. This kind of psychotherapy teaches you how to modify your behavior and thoughts so that you don't feel stressed as much.

Alprazolam, chlordiazepoxide, diazepam Clorazepate, lorazepam, and quazepam are among the most common benzodiazepines. Each one has its own list of side effects however, they all share similar properties pharmacologically. For example, clorazepate is more effective in treating seizure disorders than other benzodiazepines, and lorazepam is better for anxiety disorders than quazepam.

Benzodiazepines are extremely effective, but they should not be used long-term since they can lead to physical dependence and tolerance. They can also trigger withdrawal symptoms, such as an increase in heart rate, sweating, and shaking, if you suddenly stop taking the medication. The symptoms can be uncomfortable and last for several weeks. However, they can be minimized if you taper off the medication gradually.

Benzodiazepines are highly addictive and should be taken only for a brief period of time. Most often, it is not more than four 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 taking a benzodiazepine prescription consult your physician about your past history of substance abuse.

Beta-blockers

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

If you are stressed, your body produces a chemical known as adrenaline, which signals the body to prepare for fight or flight. Adrenaline binds to beta receptors in the brain and the heart, which causes your heart to beat faster and may cause other physical reactions. Beta-blockers are class medications that treat hypertension and other heart ailments. They work by blocking adrenaline's binding. This helps to lower the heart rate and blood pressure.

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 great choice for those who require immediate relief from anxiety symptoms. For example, those who must give an address to the public or travel in a plane. They can also be a great option for those suffering from anxiety and chronic heart problems like atherosclerosis or congestive heart failure.

Beta-blockers can reduce the physical symptoms of anxiety, but they don't address the underlying causes. As a result, they are usually prescribed as a part of an overall treatment program that includes counseling and lifestyle changes. However, they are a useful option for people who have tried other anti-anxiety drugs and do not find them to be effective or have intolerable side effects.

Propranolol and atenolol as well as other beta-blockers are available. Your doctor will decide the best one for you depending on your medical history and your health. These medications may cause negative side effects like fatigue or low blood pressure. It is important to discuss the options for treatment with your doctor.

MAOIs

Monoamine Oxase inhibitors (MAOIs) were created in the 1950s as an antidepressant, are effective for a variety of anxiety and depression disorders. However, they aren't commonly used as often as SSRIs or other antidepressants due to the need for strict diet restrictions and risks of 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 each day.

MAOIs interfere with the actions of MAO, thereby increasing the amount of serotonin and norepinephrine within the brain. These neurotransmitters play a role in sleep, mood and appetite, as also in sexual function. MAOIs can reduce anxiety. They are more likely than TCAs or SSRIs to cause side effects and are accompanied by warnings about suicide.

In addition to the MAOIs listed below your doctor might prescribe other treatments or medications that could help manage your symptoms. For example, a beta-blocker (such as propranolol) is frequently prescribed to alleviate physical symptoms of anxiety. Your doctor might suggest a relaxation technique or other home remedies to alleviate your symptoms.

Iproniazid was the first MAOI discovered in 1952 while conducting research on tuberculosis. It was soon discovered to have mood-enhancing properties and is considered the first antidepressant medication. MAOIs should only be used when other antidepressants have failed, as they can cause serious side-effects that require immediate medical attention.

If you use an MAOI and consume foods that contain Tyramine, a chemical found in many red meats, cheeses fish, shellfish, and certain dietary supplements, it could trigger an adverse reaction that can result in high blood pressure. This severe reaction could cause an intense headache nausea, vomiting, and a rapid heartbeat. MAOIs may also interact with other medications and cause severe adverse effects, including suicidal thoughts and behaviors.

Before prescribing MAOIs, your doctor will discuss with you the foods you need to avoid. He or she will tell you to avoid eating any food items that contain tyramine when you are taking the drug. The doctor will also provide the list of foods that is safe to eat when taking MAOIs. This food guide will help to prevent MAOI-related adverse effects.