Types of Anxiety Disorder Medication

Medicines are a great option to treat anxiety-related symptoms. Psychologists are trained in the use and prescription of medication. They can prescribe the appropriate medication to minimize the adverse effects.

The typical treatment for anxiety disorders is three-pronged, and includes psychotherapy, exercise and medication. SSRIs are the first-choice medications to treat anxiety, but they may take a few weeks for them to work.

SSRIs

The majority of anxiety disorders are treated with SSRIs. The more recent SSRIs are less likely to cause adverse reactions than tricyclics older than tricyclics as well as monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or tricyclic antidepressants. A variety of SSRIs have been approved by the FDA to treat generalized anxiety disorder. They include fluoxetine (aka Prozac), paraxetine, (aka Paxil), and sertraline (aka Zoloft), as well as citalopram, (aka Celexa).

These medications boost serotonin levels in the brain. They can also aid in the increase of norepinephrine levels and BDNF. They can be used by themselves or in combination with psychotherapy. SSRIs can cause nausea and digestive problems, but these side effects typically subside as the body gets used to the medication.

The precise mechanism behind the SSRIs' effect on anxiety isn't well understood. However, it is believed that they inhibit the reuptake of serotonin from the post-synaptic neurons and increase the amount of serotonin in the synaptic gap. This increases the amount of signaling that occurs across the synapse, which it also reduces anxiety symptoms.

In addition to reducing anxiety, SSRIs may reduce the frequency and intensity of panic attacks. They can also be used to treat depression and other mental conditions that are frequently associated with anxiety disorders. They are often used in conjunction with psychotherapy and other types of cognitive behavior therapy, which can enhance their effectiveness.

SSRIs aren't addictive, unlike some other antidepressants. It is nevertheless essential to follow your prescription of your doctor. If you suddenly stop taking your medication, it can cause "discontinuation" syndrome and anxiety symptoms to come back.

If SSRIs don't work for you, your doctor might suggest another class of antidepressants such as nefazodone, or mirtazapine. These medications are also effective, but carry more risk of having side effects than the newer SSRIs.

SSRIs can interact with certain foods, like red meat, eggs dairy, certain vegetables and fruits. If you are taking these medicines it is a good suggestion to avoid these food items. In addition it is recommended that you do not drink alcohol when taking SSRIs as it may cause more severe side effects.

Benzodiazepines

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

It is not uncommon for medications to be the first thing that people turn to when they're suffering from an anxiety disorder, but they're not the only treatment option. Psychotherapy, or talk therapy, has also been proven to reduce anxiety symptoms. There are a variety of psychotherapies that can aid, but the most popular and effective is cognitive behavior therapy (CBT). This kind of therapy teaches you to change your thoughts and behavior to feel less anxious.

Alprazolam, chlordiazepoxide, diazepam, clorazepate and quazepam are the most popular benzodiazepines. They all have similar pharmacological properties, but each has its own unique side effect profile. Clorazepate for instance is more effective in treating seizures compared to other benzodiazepines. Lorazepam on the contrary, is more effective in treating anxiety disorders as compared to quazepam.

While benzodiazepines are efficient, they aren't recommended for long-term use because they can cause physical dependence and tolerance. They can also trigger withdrawal symptoms, such as a pounding of the heart as well as sweating and shaking, if you suddenly stop taking them. The symptoms can be unpleasant and last for several weeks. However, they can be minimized by reducing the medication slowly.

Benzodiazepines can be very addictive and should be used only for a short period of time, usually not more than 4 weeks. You must monitor your blood pressure, heart rate and your breathing during this time so you don't suffer an extreme reaction. Talk to your doctor in the event that you are thinking of taking using a benzodiazepine.

Beta-blockers

Beta-blockers are an type of medication that is used to alleviate anxiety symptoms. They block adrenaline from binding to beta receptors in your nervous system, preventing the hormone from triggering physical reactions like heart tremors and heart palpitations. These drugs are commonly used to treat high blood pressure and other conditions of the cardiovascular system however they can be prescribed for off-label use in the case of anxiety.

When you're stressed your body produces a chemical called adrenaline that signals the body to prepare for fight or flight. Adrenaline is a binder to beta receptors in the brain and the heart, which causes your heart to beat faster and can trigger other physical reactions. Beta-blockers are a class medication used to treat hypertension, and other heart conditions. They are able to block adrenaline's binding. This assists in lowering your blood pressure and heart rate.

Contrary to SSRIs and benzodiazepines that take weeks or months to produce a noticeable improvement in your symptoms, beta-blockers are fast-acting. This makes them an excellent alternative for those who require immediate relief from their anxiety symptoms for instance, those who have to give a speech in public or take planes. They are also a good option for those suffering from anxiety and chronic heart conditions like atherosclerosis or congestive cardiac failure.

While beta-blockers can be effective in alleviating physical symptoms of anxiety, they fail to tackle the root cause of the disorder. This is why they are usually prescribed as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that incorporates counseling and lifestyle modifications. They are beneficial for those who have tried anti-anxiety medication and found it to be ineffective, or had intolerable side effects.

There are a variety of different kinds of beta-blockers, such as propranolol and atenolol. Your doctor will determine which one is best drugs for generalized anxiety disorder for you based on your medical history and your health. These medications can cause side effects such as low blood pressure or fatigue. It is essential to discuss treatment options with your physician.

MAOIs

In the 1950s, monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) are effective antidepressants for a variety of anxiety and depression. They are not as commonly employed as SSRIs and other antidepressants because of the strict dietary restrictions needed as well as the risk of interactions with other drugs. Some MAOIs come in tablet form and are taken orally, whereas others (such Emsam) are applied as a transdermal patch for skin.

MAOIs block the actions of MAO and increase the amount of norepinephrine as well as serotonin in the brain. These neurotransmitters are involved in sleep, mood, appetite, and sexual function. MAOIs also have anti-anxiety properties. They are more likely than TCAs or SSRIs to cause side effects and come with warnings regarding suicide.

In addition to the MAOIs listed below, your doctor may prescribe other treatments or medications to help you manage your symptoms. For instance, a beta blocker (such as propranolol) is often prescribed to relieve the physical symptoms of anxiety. Your doctor might also suggest a relaxation technique or other home remedies to ease your anxiety symptoms.

Iproniazid was the first MAOI discovered in 1952 as part of research into tuberculosis. It was later discovered to have mood-enhancing properties and is regarded as the first antidepressant medication. MAOIs should only be used when other antidepressants have failed because they can trigger serious side-effects that require immediate medical attention.

It could cause a risky reaction that results in high blood pressure if you are taking an MAOI when you eat foods that contain tyramine. Tyramine is found in a wide variety of red meats and cheeses as well as in fish, shellfish and some dietary supplements. This severe reaction could cause a throbbing head pain, nausea, vomiting and a fast heartbeat. MAOIs can also interact other drugs and cause severe anxiety disorder medications side effects, such as suicidal thoughts and behaviors.

Before prescribing MAOIs to you, your doctor will discuss with you what is anxiety panic disorder foods you should avoid. He or she will advise you to stay clear of eating foods that contain tyramine if you are taking the drug. He or she will also provide an inventory of food that is safe to eat when taking MAOIs. The food guide provided will help to prevent MAOI-related adverse effects.