Medications to Treat Anxiety

Therapy is the most effective method to manage anxiety, however sometimes a short-term course of medication is required. Antidepressants and tranquilizers are among the medications that can be used to treat anxiety.

SSRI antidepressants such as citalopram, sertraline, and escitalopram can reduce anxiety. SNRIs, which target serotonin and norepinephrine, can also be effective.

SSRIs

SSRIs are the first line of medication doctors prescribe to treat anxiety disorders. They block the brain's nerve cells from absorbing serotonin, which is a chemical that plays a crucial function in the regulation of mood. The drugs 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, which means they can be used for long periods of time.

Another type of antidepressant, SNRIs (serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors), also treats depression and anxiety. Examples of SNRIs include citalopram (Celexa), Escitalopram (Lexapro), 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 sometimes used to treat anxiety disorders.

Doctors aren't certain of the exact way SSRIs and other SNRIs work however they do know that they boost activity of certain chemical messengers within the brain, known as neurotransmitters. They prevent the brain from reabsorbing chemicals and permit these chemicals to interact with receptors.

SSRIs are used to treat generalized anxiety treatment for autism disorder, GAD; obsessive-compulsive disorder, OCD; panic disorder/agoraphobia; and posttraumatic stress disorder, PTSD. They may also be helpful for bulimia, though it is less prevalent.

Atypical antipsychotic medications can be prescribed to patients with anxiety who don't respond to SSRIs. Examples include quetiapine, (Abilify) and aripiprazole (Risperdal). These drugs decrease anxiety in people who have obsessive compulsive disorder. They are usually prescribed in combination with an antidepressant and have a lower chance of serious adverse effects than other kinds of antipsychotics.

Beta-blockers are also prescribed to treat anxiety and heart conditions. Examples are propranolol (Inderal) and atenolol (Tenormin). They can help reduce the physical symptoms of anxiety, particularly for those with social anxiety disorder. They can be helpful in reducing anxiety, specifically prior to or following surgery. Benzodiazepines, such as lorazepam and Ativan (Ativan) can be used when other medications do not work. The use of benzodiazepines can become addictive and can be habit-forming.

SNRIs

SNRIs are an antidepressant medication that is typically prescribed to treat anxiety. They work in a similar way to SSRIs but they also increase the availability of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. They are therefore more efficient in treating certain anxiety disorders, such as anxiety and social anxiety disorders. panic disorder. These medications are most effective when used when used in conjunction with other treatments for anxiety disorders and therapy.

Unlike benzodiazepines SNRIs don't cause dependence or addiction in the majority of people. However, some patients may be prone to withdrawal after stopping the medication after a lengthy period of use. It is crucial to talk with your physician prior to discontinuing any medication.

Neurotransmitters such serotonin as well as norepinephrine control mood and stress. They play an important role in the fight or flight response that a lot of sufferers of anxiety feel. By preventing the reuptake of, SNRIs block nerve cells from absorption of these neurotransmitters in a rapid manner. They keep these chemicals in the body for longer, and can boost mood, decrease anxiety, or even alleviate panic attacks.

Norepinephrine also plays a part in anxiety, as it stimulates the Amygdala. This is a very deep and primitive brain region that is linked to fearful behavior. SNRIs decrease the activity in this region of the brain. This can boost mood, anxiety and reduce panic attacks.

These medications are very helpful however, they may cause suicidal thoughts in some people. Because of this, they're usually prescribed in higher dosages and for a shorter duration. Additionally, these drugs may interact with other medications and other substances. If you are taking any other prescription or over-the counter medications, be sure to discuss this with your doctor and keep them updated on any underlying medical conditions you suffer from particularly heart issues and bleeding-related diseases. Be aware that certain patients have reported adverse reactions to SNRIs including dry mouth and nausea.

Benzodiazepines

Benzos, also known as benzodiazepines as they are often referred to, are quick-acting drugs that reduce anxiety and related symptoms, including muscle tension and insomnia. They can be helpful for people with anxiety disorders, like social anxiety and panic disorder particularly when other treatments, such as SSRIs or psychotherapy (talk therapy), don't work. They are also a good short-term solution, like while you wait for an antidepressant begin working. Benzos include diazepam, lorazepam, temazepam, and flurazepam.

Because they're fast-acting drugs, they generally start to work within 30 minutes. These drugs don't last long in the body, which is why you must take them regularly to benefit from their effects. Benzos should not be used for prolonged periods of time as they can lead to physical dependence and addiction. Benzos should not be taken by people suffering from depression or anxiety disorders as they may increase the risk.

People who use benzos over an extended period with no medical supervision and often without the guidance of a physician, may develop a condition known as sedative use disorders, which includes withdrawal symptoms and addiction. It is uncommon for people who are prescribed benzos to develop this disorder, however. Benzo abuse usually stems from other causes such as alcoholism or depression.

Taking benzodiazepines for the long term can also cause tolerance to their effects on sedation. As you get used to them, it takes more and more of the medication to have the same effect. In certain cases this could lead to respiratory depression, coma, and death. Even if you're taking benzodiazepines for a prolonged time, it is important to adhere to the prescription.

Other Medicines

SSRIs and SNRIs are the primary medications doctors will typically prescribe to treat anxiety. They affect serotonin which is responsible for mood, appetite, and sleep. They can take up to 12 weeks before they begin to work and may have negative effects like insomnia or nausea. SSRIs can also be used to treat mental disorders such as panic disorder, depression and obsessive compulsive disorder. Antidepressants, unlike benzodiazepines, do not cause physical dependence. However, they may cause withdrawal symptoms when abruptly stopped.

Sertraline (Zoloft), Prozac (Prozac), and Celexa (Citalopram) are the three medications that fall under this class. They can be used as a single drug or in conjunction with therapy. Antidepressants may be prescribed by a psychologist, psychiatrist or family physician with specialized training in the field of medication management.

Doctors may prescribe a class called monoamine-oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) as an antidepressant. These medications block the action of enzymes that break chemicals down, such as serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine. MAOIs can take as long as four weeks to start working however, they aren't as fast-acting than SSRIs.

Another medication that can help manage anxiety is clonidine. It is used to lower blood pressure, but has limited use in treating anxiety. Its effectiveness is limited due to adverse effects like hypotension and sedation. Doctors can prescribe antihistamines, such as hydroxyzine, to help reduce the symptoms of panic attacks and anxiety. Some patients might also experience a reduction in the effectiveness of benzodiazepines.

Anxiety is often treated with a combination of psychotherapy, exercise and medication. The most effective approach is to work with someone who is specialized in treating anxiety disorders. They can help you identify the root causes of anxiety and recommend ways to manage it without medication if required. Other options for anxiety treatment anxiety without medication that don't require medication include eye movement desensitization, mindfulness meditation, and Yoga that is trauma-informed. Talk with your therapist about which options are best medication to treat anxiety for you. Psychiatrists are trained to evaluate your medical history and symptoms and formulate a treatment plan that is suitable for you. When creating the plan, they will take into consideration your diagnosis, lifestyle, medical background, and preferences. They may also make adjustments over time.