Types of Anxiety Disorder Medication
Medicines can be a useful instrument to manage anxiety symptoms. Psychiatrists are educated in the prescription and use of medications. They can prescribe the correct medication to minimize side effects.
Treatment for anxiety disorders is typically three-pronged, which includes psychotherapy, medication and exercise. SSRIs are the most popular choice of medications for treating anxiety, can take up to several weeks to take effect.
SSRIs
The majority of anxiety disorders are treated with SSRIs. The most recent SSRIs have more favorable adverse effects than older tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) and monoamine oxide inhibitors (MAOIs). A variety of SSRIs have been approved by FDA to treat generalized anxiety disorder. This includes fluoxetine (aka Prozac), paraxetine, (aka Paxil), and sertraline, (aka Zoloft), as well as citalopram, (aka Celexa).
These drugs boost serotonin levels in the brain and may aid in increasing norepinephrine levels and BDNF. They can be employed in conjunction with psychotherapy or alone. SSRIs can cause side effects, like nausea and digestive problems however, they tend to improve as the body gets used to the medication.
The precise mechanism behind how SSRIs help with anxiety isn't fully understood. However, it is believed that they inhibit the reuptake of serotonin by the post-synaptic nerve and increase the amount of serotonin within the synaptic gap. This increases the amount of signaling that occurs across the synapse, and in turn decreases anxiety symptoms.
SSRIs can help reduce anxiety and the severity of panic attacks. They also aid in the treatment of depression and other mental health conditions that are often associated with anxiety disorders . They are often used in combination with psychotherapy or other types of cognitive behavior therapy, which could improve their effectiveness.
SSRIs aren't addictive, unlike other antidepressants. It is nevertheless essential to follow your doctor's instructions. If you stop taking your medication abruptly, this can cause "discontinuation syndrome" and a return of anxiety symptoms.
If SSRIs are not suitable for you, your doctor could try a different class of antidepressants, like mirtazapine or nefazodone. These medications are also effective, but have greater risk of side effects than the newer SSRIs.
SSRIs can interact with certain foods, like eggs, red meat dairy, certain vegetables and fruits. If you are taking these medicines it is a wise idea to stay clear of these foods. In addition it is recommended that you avoid drinking alcohol while taking SSRIs since it can cause more severe side effects.
Benzodiazepines
Benzodiazepines increase the calming effects of certain chemical substances within the brain and nervous system. They function by enhancing the effects of a neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) that inhibits the activity of nerves. These medications can be very effective in treating insomnia, anxiety and other psychological disorders. They can be addictive and should be used only for short periods under medical supervision. Benzos are dangerous when taken recreationally or mixed with other substances like alcohol.
If someone suffers from anxiety disorders, they usually resort to medication as their first option. However it's not the only option. Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy, has been proven to help decrease anxiety-related symptoms. There are a myriad of psychotherapies, but cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is the most popular and effective. This type of psychotherapy can teach you how to change your thinking and behavior to make you less anxious as often.
The most common benzodiazepines are alprazolam (Xanax), chlordiazepoxide (Librium), diazepam (Valium), clorazepate (Tranxene) and lorazepam (Ativan), and quazepam (Dalmane). They all share the same chemical properties, however each has its own unique side effects characteristic. Clorazepate, for instance, is more effective in treating seizures compared to other benzodiazepines. Lorazepam, on other hand, is superior in treating anxiety disorders as compared to quazepam.
While benzodiazepines are efficient, they are not advised for long-term use due to the fact that they can trigger physical dependence and tolerance. They can also cause withdrawal symptoms, such as a pounding of the heart shaking, sweating, and shaking if you abruptly stop taking them. The symptoms can be extremely uncomfortable and last for a long time, but they can be reduced by slowly reducing the medication.
Benzodiazepines are extremely addictive and should be taken only for a short time - usually no more than 4 weeks. You will need to monitor your blood pressure, heart rate and breathing closely during this time to ensure you don't suffer an extreme reaction. Consult your physician if you are considering a benzodiazepine.
Beta-blockers
Beta-blockers are an type of medication that helps to treat anxiety-related symptoms. These medications stop adrenaline from binding to beta receptors in your nervous system, which stops the hormone from triggering physical reactions such as heart palpitations and tremors. These medications are usually prescribed to treat high blood-pressure and other cardiovascular issues. However they can also be prescribed off-label to treat anxiety.
When you feel anxious your body releases a chemical dubbed Adrenaline. This chemical signals your body to prepare itself to fight or flee. Adrenaline is a beta receptor that is found in the brain and the heart, causing your heart to beat faster and triggering other physical reactions. Beta-blockers, the name of a class of medication that is used to treat hypertension and other heart ailments, work by blocking the adrenaline binding, which helps to reduce your heart rate and blood pressure.
Beta-blockers are quick to work, unlike SSRIs or benzodiazepines which can require a long time to show an improvement in symptoms. This makes them an excellent option for people who need immediate relief from anxiety-related symptoms, such as those who must give speeches in public or fly on an airplane. They are also a good alternative for people suffering from anxiety and chronic heart problems like atherosclerosis or congestive cardiac failure.
Although beta-blockers are effective in alleviating physical symptoms of anxiety, they fail to tackle the root cause of the disorder. They are only prescribed as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that incorporates lifestyle modifications and counseling. They are useful for people who have tried medications for anxiety and found it to be ineffective, or caused unacceptable side effects.
Propranolol and atenolol as well as other beta-blockers are all available. Your doctor will decide the best one for you according to your medical history and overall health. These medications can cause negative side effects like low blood pressure or fatigue. It is essential to discuss your 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 due the strict dietary restrictions needed as well as the risk of drug interactions. Some MAOIs are in tablet form and can be taken orally, while others (such Emsam) are applied as a transdermal skin patch.
MAOIs block the action of MAO and increase the amount of norepinephrine as well as serotonin in the brain. These neurotransmitters play a role in mood, sleep appetite, 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 mentioned below, your doctor may prescribe other treatments or medications to help manage your symptoms. For instance, a beta blocker (such as propranolol) is often prescribed to relieve the physical symptoms of anxiety. Your doctor might suggest relaxation techniques, or other home treatments to alleviate your symptoms.
Iproniazid was the first MAOI discovered in 1952 while conducting research on tuberculosis. It was quickly discovered to have mood-elevating qualities and is considered to be the first antidepressant medication. Typically, MAOIs are used when other antidepressants don't perform, as they could cause serious adverse reactions that require immediate medical attention.
If you use an MAOI and consume foods containing tyramine, a substance in many cheeses, red meats, shellfish, fish, as well as certain dietary supplements, it could trigger a dangerous reaction that results in high blood pressure. This serious reaction can result in an intense headache nausea, vomiting, and a rapid heartbeat. MAOIs can also interact with other medications and can result in severe side effects such as suicidal thoughts and behaviors.
Before prescribing MAOIs to you, your doctor will discuss with you the foods you should avoid. He or she will advise you to avoid eating foods that contain tyramine if you are taking the medication. He or she might also provide you with an inventory of food that are safe to eat when taking MAOIs. Using this food guide can help you avoid MAOI-related side effects.