Medications to Treat Anxiety

Therapy is the most effective method to reduce anxiety, but sometimes a short-term course medication may be required. The medications used to treat anxiety include tranquilizers and antidepressants.

SSRI antidepressants, such as citalopram (Celexa), the escitalopram (Lexapro) and sertraline (Zoloft) can improve communication between nerve cells within the brain, and may reduce anxiety. SNRIs that target the chemical serotonin and norepinephrine may also be effective.

SSRIs

SSRIs are the first line of medication doctors prescribe to treat anxiety disorders. They block nerve cell serotonin re-absorption in the brain, a chemical which is vital for the regulation of mood. The medications take a while to take effect, but the majority of people are better after four to six weeks. SSRIs aren't habit-forming and will not cause addiction, so they can be taken for extended periods of time.

Another type of antidepressant, SNRIs (serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors), also treats depression and anxiety. Examples of SNRIs are citalopram (Celexa) as well as Escitalopram (Lexapro) and the fluoxetine (Prozac), paroxetine (Paxil) and sertraline (Zoloft). Tricyclic antidepressants such as imipramine (Tofranil) and doxepine and an anxiety Disorder stimulant are also used to treat anxiety and depression. Mirtazapine, an antidepressant that is novel is often used to treat anxiety disorders.

Doctors don't know the function of SNRIs and SSRIs, but they know that they increase the activity of certain chemical messengers called neurotransmitters in the brain. They prevent the brain from reabsorbing these chemicals, and permit them to bind to their receptors.

SSRIs are used to treat generalized anxiety disorder, GAD; obsessive-compulsive disorder, OCD; panic disorder/agoraphobia; and posttraumatic stress disorder, PTSD. They can also be helpful with bulimia, but it is less common.

People with anxiety who don't respond to SSRIs might be prescribed an antipsychotic atypical drug. Examples include quetiapine (Abilify) and aripiprazole (Risperdal). These drugs relieve anxiety in people with obsessive-compulsive disorders. They are typically prescribed in combination with an antidepressant and have a lower risk of serious adverse reactions than other forms of antipsychotics.

Beta-blockers, also known as beta-blockers, can be used to combat anxiety and are frequently prescribed for heart conditions. Propranolol and atenolol are two examples. They can reduce physical symptoms of anxiety in people suffering from social anxiety disorders. They can be useful in reducing anxiety, particularly prior to or following surgery. Benzodiazepines, like lorazepam or Ativan (Ativan) are able to be used in situations where other medications do not work. Benzodiazepines can be addictive and habit-forming.

SNRIs

SNRIs are another type of antidepressant medications that are often prescribed to combat anxiety. They work in a similar way similar to SSRIs but they also increase the amount of norepinephrine and serotonin. They are therefore more effective in treating specific anxiety disorders, such as social anxiety treatment for autism disorder and anxiety panic disorder. These medications are most effective when used when used in conjunction with other treatments and talk therapy.

Contrary to other benzodiazepines, SNRIs aren't able to cause dependence or addiction in most people. Some sufferers might experience withdrawal symptoms after stopping a medication following an extended period of usage. It is important to consult your doctor before discontinuing any medication.

Serotonin and norepinephrine, two neurotransmitters, are responsible for stress and mood reactions. They play an important part in the fight or flight response that many anxiety sufferers experience. SNRIs stop nerve cells from rapidly mopping up these neurotransmitters by blocking the process of reuptake. They hold these chemicals in the body for longer, and can boost mood, decrease anxiety, or even alleviate panic attacks.

Norepinephrine is also essential for anxiety because it activates the amygdala, which is a deep and fundamental part of the brain that is linked with fear-related behavior. SNRIs have been shown to reduce activity in this area of the brain, which can positively impact anxiety and mood as well as ease panic attacks.

These medicines are extremely helpful, but they can also cause suicidal thoughts in some people. Due to this, they are typically prescribed in higher doses and for a short duration. They may also interact with other medications and substances. If you are on any other prescription or over-the counter medications, be sure to discuss this with your physician and keep them informed of any underlying conditions you have particularly heart issues and bleeding-related diseases. Be aware that some patients report adverse reactions to SNRIs such as nausea and a dry mouth.

Benzodiazepines

Benzos, also known as benzodiazepines as they are commonly called are a class of drugs that reduce anxiety and related symptoms, such a insomnia and muscle tension. Some people with anxiety disorders, such as social anxiety or panic disorder might find them beneficial, especially if they have not had success with other treatments, such as SSRIs and psychotherapy. They can also be helpful as a short-term solution, like while you are waiting for an antidepressant to begin working. The medications diazepam (Valium) and lorazepam (Ativan) are the most popular benzos, but other options include clonazepam (Rivotril), temazepam (Restoril) and flurazepam (Dalmane).

Because they're fast-acting drugs, they generally begin to work within 30 minutes. They don't last for long in the body, so it is essential to take them regularly to reap the benefits. Benzos should not be used for long periods because they can cause physical dependence and addiction. Benzos are not recommended by those suffering from anxiety or depression disorders since they may increase the risk.

Benzo users who use them for a long period of period of time, usually without medical supervision, may develop a condition known as sedative-use disorders, which can include addiction and withdrawal symptoms. This condition is uncommon in those who take benzos according to prescription. Benzo abuse usually stems from other causes such as alcoholism or depression.

Tolerance to benzodiazepines can also develop when they are taken for a long time. Tolerance means that you need more medication in order to achieve the same effects. In some instances, this can lead to respiratory depression, coma or death. Even if you are taking benzodiazepines for a long period of time, it is essential to follow the prescription.

Other Medications

SSRIs and SNRIs will be the primary medication prescribed by doctors to treat anxiety. They alter serotonin which affects the mood sleep, appetite, and appetite. They can take a while to show results, up to 12 weeks, and have some side effects like insomnia or nausea. SSRIs are also used meds to treat anxiety [scientific-programs.science's website] treat other mental health disorders like depression, obsessive compulsive disorder and panic disorder. In contrast to benzodiazepines they don't cause physical dependence but they can trigger withdrawal symptoms when abruptly cut off.

Sertraline (Zoloft), Prozac (Prozac) Sertraline (Zoloft), Prozac (Prozac) and Celexa (Citalopram) are the three medications that fall under this class. They can be used as a stand-alone treatment or in combination with therapy. Antidepressants may be prescribed by a psychiatrist, psychologist or family physician with special training in medication management.

Doctors can prescribe a class called monoamine-oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) as an antidepressant. These drugs block the action of enzymes that break chemical into smaller pieces, such as serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine. MAOIs can take up to four weeks to begin working, but they are not as fast-acting than SSRIs.

Clonidine is another drug that can be used to manage anxiety. It is often used to treat anxiety however, it can also be used to control blood pressure. Its effectiveness is limited due to negative side effects, such as hypotension and sedation. Doctors may prescribe antihistamines, such as hydroxyzine to help reduce the symptoms of anxiety and panic attacks. Some patients may also experience a decrease in the effectiveness of benzodiazepines.

Anxiety is typically treated with the combination of psychotherapy, exercise and medication. A therapist who specializes in anxiety disorders is the most effective way to treat anxiety. They can help you identify the underlying causes for anxiety and recommend strategies to manage it without medication, if needed. Other options for treating anxiety that don't require medication include eye movement desensitization mindfulness meditation and Yoga that is trauma-informed. Talk with your therapist about what options are best for you. Psychiatrists have the training to evaluate your symptoms, medical history and formulate a treatment plan for anxiety that is right for you. When preparing the plan, they consider your lifestyle, diagnosis medical background, lifestyle, and personal preferences. They can also make adjustments as time passes.