Types of Anxiety Disorder Medication

Medications can be a valuable tool to help manage anxiety symptoms. Psychologists have extensive experience in the use of drugs and are able to write the right prescriptions to minimize the adverse effects.

Typical anxiety disorder treatment is three-pronged, and includes psychotherapy, exercise and medication. SSRIs are the first choice to treat anxiety, but they can take several weeks for them to be effective.

SSRIs

Most anxiety disorders can be treated with SSRIs. The most recent SSRIs have better adverse effect profiles than tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) and monoamine oxide inhibitors (MAOIs). A variety of SSRIs have been approved by the FDA to treat anxiety disorders that are generalized. This includes fluoxetine (aka Prozac), paraxetine, (aka Paxil), and sertraline (aka Zoloft), 5097533 as well as citalopram, (aka Celexa).

These medications boost serotonin levels in the brain. They may aid in increasing norepinephrine as well as BDNF. They can be utilized in conjunction with psychotherapy or alone. SSRIs may cause adverse effects, such as stomach and nausea however, they tend to improve as the body gets used to the medication.

The exact mechanism of the SSRIs' effect on anxiety isn't well known. It is believed that SSRIs inhibit serotonin reuptake in post-synaptic neurons and increase the concentration serotonin within the synaptic gaps. This increases the amount of signals that cross the synapse and it also reduces anxiety symptoms.

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

SSRIs are not addictive, unlike some other antidepressants. It is still important to follow the doctor's instructions. If you suddenly stop taking your medication, it could result in "discontinuation" syndrome and anxiety symptoms to return.

If SSRIs do not work for you, then your doctor may try a different antidepressant class, like nefazodone or mirtazapine. These drugs are also effective, but have greater risk of adverse reactions than the more recent SSRIs.

SSRIs may interact with certain food items such as dairy products, red meat, eggs and certain fruits and vegetables. It is recommended to stay clear of these foods if you are taking these medications. It is also generally advised to avoid drinking alcohol while taking SSRIs since it may cause some adverse effects.

Benzodiazepines

Benzodiazepines improve the calming effect of certain chemical substances within the nervous system and brain. They enhance the effects of the neurotransmitter gamma aminobutyric acids (GABA) which is a substance which inhibits nerve activity. These drugs are effective in treating insomnia, anxiety disorders and other mental disorders. However, they can be addictive and should only be used for short periods of time under medical supervision. Benzos can be dangerous when taken recreationally or mixed with other substances such as alcohol.

If someone suffers from anxiety disorders, they often turn to medication as their first option. However, this is not the only option. Psychotherapy or talk therapy has also been shown as an effective way to reduce anxiety disorder symptoms. There are a variety of psychotherapies, but cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) is the most well-known and effective. This type of therapy teaches you to change your thinking and behavior so that you are less stressed.

Alprazolam, chlordiazepoxide and diazepam, clorazepate, lorazepam and quazepam are the most commonly used benzodiazepines. They all share the same chemical properties, however each has its own distinct side effects characteristic. Clorazepate for instance, is more effective in treating seizure disorders compared to other benzodiazepines. Lorazepam, on contrary, is more effective in treating anxiety disorders as than Quazepam.

While benzodiazepines are efficient, they aren't advised for long-term use due to the fact that they can cause physical dependence and tolerance. Additionally, they could cause withdrawal symptoms when you stop taking them abruptly like sweating, a heart beating and shaking. The symptoms can be unpleasant and last for a few weeks. However they can be slowed down by reducing the medication slowly.

Benzodiazepines can be very addictive and should only be used for a brief period of duration - typically not more than 4 weeks. You will need to monitor your blood pressure, heart rate and your breathing during this time to ensure you don't suffer an extremely severe reaction. If you're thinking of getting a benzodiazepine prescription, consult your physician about your history of abuse.

Beta-blockers

Beta-blockers are used to treat anxiety symptoms. These drugs block adrenaline from binding to beta receptors in your nervous system, which prevents the hormone from triggering physical responses like heart tremors and heart palpitations. These drugs are usually used to treat high blood pressure and other cardiovascular issues however, they can also be prescribed for non-pharmacological use in the case of anxiety.

If you are stressed your body releases a chemical dubbed Adrenaline. This chemical signals your body to prepare itself to fight or flee. Adrenaline is a binder to beta receptors in the brain and the heart which causes your heart rate to increase and may cause other physical reactions. Beta-blockers are a class of medication used to treat hypertension, and other heart ailments. They are able to block adrenaline's binding actions. This helps to lower the blood pressure and heart rate.

Beta-blockers are quick to work, unlike SSRIs or benzodiazepines that require a long time to show improvement in symptoms. They are a good choice for those who require immediate relief from anxiety symptoms. For instance, those who must give an address in public or travel in an airplane. In addition, they are a good choice for people who have both anxiety and a chronic heart condition such as atherosclerosis or congestive heart failure.

Beta-blockers can reduce the physical symptoms of anxiety but they don't address the underlying causes. They are therefore only prescribed as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes lifestyle adjustments and counseling. However, they are an option for those who have tried other anti-anxiety medications but haven't found them to be effective or to have intolerable side effects.

Propranolol, atenolol, as well as other beta-blockers are available. Your doctor will decide which beta-blocker is right for you depending on your medical history and 5097533 current health status. These medications can trigger negative side effects, including fatigue or 5097533 low blood pressure and fatigue, so it is crucial to discuss your treatment options with your doctor.

MAOIs

The first MAOIs were developed in the 1950s. monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) are effective antidepressants that can treat depression and anxiety disorders. However, they are not commonly used as often as SSRIs or other antidepressants due the need for strict diet restrictions and risks of interactions with drugs. Certain MAOIs are available in tablet form and can be taken orally, whereas others (such Emsam) are applied as a transdermal skin patch.

MAOIs block the actions of MAO and increase the amount of norepinephrine as well as serotonin in the brain. These neurotransmitters play a role in sleep, mood appetite, sexual function. MAOIs have an anti-anxiety effect. However, 5097533 they are more likely to trigger side effects than TCAs and SSRIs and come with warnings on suicide in a box.

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

The first MAOI, Iproniazid, was discovered during tuberculosis research in 1952. It was quickly discovered that it could possess mood-enhancing properties and is regarded as the first antidepressant drug. MAOIs should be used only when other antidepressants have failed as they can cause serious side effects that require immediate medical attention.

It can cause a dangerous reaction that results in high blood pressure when you take an MAOI when you eat foods that contain tyramine. Tyramine is found in many cheeses and red meats as well as in shellfish, fish and some dietary supplements. The symptoms of this reaction include nausea, throbbing headaches vomiting, and a rapid heart rate. MAOIs may also interact with other medications and cause severe side effects like suicidal thoughts and behaviors.

Your doctor will discuss your dietary needs with you before prescribing MAOIs. He or she will tell you to stay clear of eating food items that contain tyramine when you are taking the medication. The doctor might also provide you with a list of food that is safe to eat when taking MAOIs. The food guide provided can help you avoid MAOI-related side effects.