Types of Anxiety Disorder Medication

Medications can be a valuable tool to help manage anxiety symptoms. Psychiatrists are trained in the use and prescription of medications. They can prescribe the correct medication to minimize the adverse effects.

The typical treatment for anxiety disorders is three-pronged, and includes therapy, exercise and medication. SSRIs are the first choice to treat anxiety, however they can take up to a week for them to take effect.

SSRIs

SSRIs are the drugs that are most commonly prescribed for anxiety disorders. The latest SSRIs are less likely to cause adverse reactions than tricyclics older than tricyclics as well as monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or tricyclic antidepressants. Several SSRIs are FDA-approved to treat generalized anxiety disorder . These include fluoxetine (aka Prozac), paroxetine (aka Paxil), sertraline (aka Zoloft), and citalopram (aka Celexa).

These medications boost serotonin levels in the brain. They can also aid in the increase of norepinephrine and BDNF. They are able to be used in conjunction with psychotherapy, or by themselves. SSRIs can cause negative effects, such as nausea and digestive problems however, they tend to improve as the body gets used to the medication.

The exact mechanism by which SSRIs work for anxiety isn’t fully understood. However it is believed they block the reuptake of serotonin from the post-synaptic neuron and increase the amount of serotonin in the synaptic gap. This improves the signaling between the synapses, which in turn reduces anxiety symptoms.

In addition to decreasing anxiety, SSRIs may reduce the frequency and severity of panic attacks. They also can help with depression and other mental health disorders that often co-occur with anxiety disorders. They can be incorporated into psychotherapy or cognitive behavior therapy to improve their effectiveness.

In contrast to other classes of antidepressants, SSRIs do not appear to be addictive. However, it is essential 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 aren’t suitable for you, your doctor could try a different class of antidepressant, such as nefazodone or mirtazapine. These medications are also efficient, but they carry a higher risk of side effects than the newer SSRIs.

SSRIs can interact with certain food items such as dairy products and eggs, red meat, and certain fruits and vegetables. It is best to avoid these foods if taking these medications. In addition it is recommended that you avoid drinking alcohol when taking SSRIs since it can cause more severe side effects.

Benzodiazepines

Benzodiazepines enhance the calming effects of certain chemical substances within the brain and nervous system. They function by enhancing the effects of a neurotransmitter known as Gamma-aminobutyric Acid (GABA), which suppresses the activity of nerves. These drugs are effective in treating anxiety, insomnia and other psychological disorders. They can be addictive, and should only be used for short periods under medical supervision. Benzos can be dangerous when used for recreational purposes or mixed with other substances like alcohol.

If someone suffers from anxiety disorders, they typically resort to medication as their first option. However, this is not the only option. Talk therapy or psychotherapy has also been proven to be an effective method to decrease anxiety disorder symptoms. There are a myriad of psychotherapies that can help and improve your life, but the most well-known and effective one is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). This kind of therapy teaches you to alter your thinking and behavior in order to feel less anxious.

Alprazolam, chlordiazepoxide, diazepam, clorazepate and quazepam are among the most popular benzodiazepines. They all share similar 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 the contrary, is more effective at treating anxiety disorders than quazepam.

Benzodiazepines are extremely effective, but they should not be used long-term because they can cause physical dependence and tolerance. They can also trigger withdrawal symptoms, like an increase in heart rate as well as sweating and shaking, if you suddenly stop taking the medication. The symptoms can be extremely unpleasant and can last for weeks, but they can be slowed down by slowly tapering off the medication.

Benzodiazepines are extremely addictive and should be used only for a limited period of period of time. Usually, no more than four weeks. During this time, you will need to closely monitor your blood pressure and heart rate to ensure you don’t suffer a severe withdrawal reaction. Consult your physician when you’re considering taking the use of a benzodiazepine.

Beta-blockers

Beta-blockers can be used to treat anxiety symptoms. These medications prevent adrenaline from binding to beta receptors in your nervous system, preventing the hormone from triggering physical responses such as heart palpitations and tremors. These drugs are commonly used to treat high blood pressure and other cardiovascular issues, but they can also be prescribed for off-label use in cases of anxiety.

When you are feeling anxious your body releases a chemical called Adrenaline. disorders anxiety to prepare itself for fight or flight. Adrenaline is a binder to beta receptors in the brain and the heart and causes your heart to beat faster and may cause other physical reactions. Beta-blockers are class medications used to treat hypertension and other heart ailments. They block adrenaline’s binding actions. This assists in lowering your blood pressure and heart rate.

Contrary to SSRIs and benzodiazepines that take a few weeks or months to show a significant improvement in your symptoms, beta-blockers work quickly. This makes them a good choice for those who require immediate relief from their anxiety symptoms, such as those who have to give an address in public or take planes. They also make a great option for those suffering from anxiety and chronic heart issues, such as atherosclerosis or congestive cardiac failure.

Although beta-blockers are effective at reducing the physical symptoms of anxiety, they do not tackle the root cause of the disorder. Therefore, they are usually prescribed as part of a larger treatment program that includes counseling and lifestyle adjustments. They can be beneficial for those who have tried medications for anxiety but found it to be ineffective or caused unacceptable side effects.

There are several different types of beta-blockers such as propranolol and atenolol. Your doctor will determine which one is best for you according to your medical history and your health. These medications may cause adverse effects, such as low blood pressure or fatigue. It is crucial to discuss your options with your physician.

MAOIs

Monoamine Oxase inhibitors (MAOIs), developed in the 1950s to be an antidepressant, have proven to be effective for certain anxiety and depression disorders. They aren’t as widely employed as SSRIs and other antidepressants due to the strict dietary restrictions that are required and the potential for interactions with other drugs. Some MAOIs can be taken orally in tablet form while others (such as Emsam) come in the form of a transdermal patch applied to the skin each day.

MAOIs block the action of MAO and increase the amount of norepinephrine and serotonin in the brain. These neurotransmitters are involved in mood, sleep, appetite, and sexual function. MAOIs can reduce anxiety. However they are more likely to cause side effects than TCAs and SSRIs and carry warnings on suicide in a box.

In addition to the MAOIs listed below, your doctor may prescribe additional treatments or medications to help you manage your symptoms. A beta-blocker, like propranolol is frequently prescribed to alleviate the physical symptoms associated with anxiety. Your doctor may suggest a relaxation method or other home remedies to alleviate your symptoms.

The original MAOI, Iproniazid, was discovered during research into tuberculosis in 1952. It was quickly discovered that it could have mood-elevating qualities and is considered to be the first antidepressant medication. Typically, MAOIs are used when other antidepressants do not work, since they can cause serious adverse reactions that require immediate medical attention.

If you use an MAOI and consume foods that contain tyramine, a substance that is found in many red meats, cheeses, shellfish, fish, and certain dietary supplements, it can cause a dangerous reaction that results in high blood pressure. Symptoms of this severe reaction include a throbbing headache, nausea, vomiting, and fast heart rate. MAOIs can also interact other drugs and cause severe adverse effects, including suicidal thoughts and behavior.

Your doctor will discuss your diet needs with you prior to prescribing MAOIs. He or she will advise you against eating foods that contain tyramine while taking the medication. They will also give a list of foods that are safe to consume while on MAOIs. This food guide can help to avoid MAOI-related symptoms.