Types of Anxiety Disorder Medication

Medications can be a valuable tool for managing anxiety symptoms. Psychologists are trained in the prescription and use of medications. They can prescribe the correct medication to minimize side effects.

Treatment for anxiety disorders is usually three-pronged, which includes therapy, medication and exercise. SSRIs are the first-choice medication for treating anxiety, but they can take several weeks for them to take effect.

SSRIs

The majority of anxiety disorders are treated with SSRIs. 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. A variety of SSRIs are FDA-approved for treating generalized mild anxiety disorder disorder, including fluoxetine (aka Prozac), paroxetine (aka Paxil), sertraline (aka Zoloft), and citalopram (aka Celexa).

These drugs can boost serotonin in the brain, and can also boost norepinephrine or BDNF. They are able to be utilized in conjunction with psychotherapy, or by themselves. SSRIs may cause nausea and digestive issues, but these effects tend to diminish when the body is accustomed to the medication.

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

In addition to decreasing anxiety, SSRIs may reduce the frequency and severity of panic attacks. They can also be used to treat depression as well as other mental illnesses that are frequently associated with anxiety disorders. They can be used in conjunction with psychotherapy and other types of cognitive behavior therapy, which could increase their effectiveness.

Unlike some other classes of antidepressants SSRIs don't appear to be addictive. Nevertheless, it is important to follow the prescriptions of your doctor exactly. If you discontinue your medication suddenly it could trigger "discontinuation syndrome" and a return of anxiety symptoms.

If SSRIs are not working for you, then your doctor might suggest a different antidepressant class, such as nefazodone, mirtazapine. These medications are also efficient, but they carry more risk of having adverse reactions than the more recent SSRIs.

SSRIs may interact with certain foods such as dairy products, red meat, eggs and some fruits and veggies. It is advised to avoid these foods if taking these medications. It is also recommended that you avoid drinking alcohol when you are taking SSRIs because it can increase some side effects.

Benzodiazepines

Benzodiazepines improve the calming effect of certain chemicals within the nervous system and brain. They work by enhancing the effects of a neurotransmitter named Gamma-aminobutyric Acid (GABA) which inhibits the nerves' activity. These drugs are effective in treating insomnia, anxiety disorders, and other psychological disorders. They can be addictive, and should be used only for a short time under medical supervision. Benzos are dangerous when used for recreational purposes or in combination with other substances such as alcohol.

The use of medication is often the first thing that people turn to when they have an anxiety disorder However, they're not the only treatment option. Psychotherapy or talk therapy has also been proven to be a way to reduce separation anxiety disorder symptoms in adults symptoms. There are a variety of psychotherapies, but cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) is the most popular and efficient. This kind of psychotherapy teaches you how to modify your behavior and thoughts to make you less stressed as much.

Alprazolam and chlordiazepoxide as well as diazep Clorazepate, lorazepam, and quazepam are the most commonly used benzodiazepines. They all have similar pharmacological properties, but each has its own unique side effect and pharmacological profile. Clorazepate, for example is more effective at treating seizures compared to other benzodiazepines. Lorazepam on the contrary, is more effective at treating anxiety disorders than Quazepam.

Benzodiazepines are very effective but they are not recommended for long-term use since they can lead to physical dependence and tolerance. In addition, they may lead to withdrawal symptoms if you stop taking them suddenly like a pounding heart, sweating and shaking. Symptoms can be very unpleasant and can last for a long time but they can be slowed down by slowly tapering off the medication.

Benzodiazepines are highly addictive and should be used only for a brief period of period of time. In general, not more than four weeks. You should be monitoring your blood pressure, heart rate and your breathing during this time to ensure that you don't have an extremely severe reaction. If you're thinking of getting a benzodiazepine prescription, talk to your doctor about your history of using substances.

Beta-blockers

Beta-blockers are used to treat anxiety-related symptoms. They block adrenaline from binding to beta receptors in the nervous system. This is a way to stop the hormone from producing physical reactions such as heart palpitations or tremors. These medications are typically used to treat high blood pressure and other cardiovascular conditions however, they can also be prescribed for off-label use in the case of anxiety.

If you are stressed, your body produces a chemical called adrenaline which signals your body to prepare for fight or flight. Adrenaline binds beta receptors found in the heart and brain and causes your heart to beat more quickly and causing other physical reactions. Beta-blockers are class medications used to treat hypertension, and other heart ailments. They work by blocking adrenaline's binding action. This helps to lower your heart rate and blood pressure.

Beta-blockers work quickly, unlike SSRIs or benzodiazepines, which require a long time to show a difference in symptoms. This makes them a great choice for those who require immediate relief from anxiety-related symptoms, such as those who have to give a speech in public or travel on planes. In addition, they are ideal for those who suffer from anxiety as well as a chronic heart issue such as atherosclerosis or congestive cardiac failure.

Although beta-blockers are effective at reducing the physical symptoms of anxiety, they don't treat the root of the condition. This is why they are usually prescribed as part of a larger treatment plan that includes counseling and lifestyle adjustments. However, they are an effective option for those who have tried other anti-social anxiety disorder symptoms medications and have not found them to be effective or cause unacceptable side effects.

Propranolol, atenolol, as well as other beta-blockers are also available. Your doctor will determine which beta-blocker is right for you depending on your medical background and current health status. These medications can cause adverse effects, such as low blood pressure or fatigue. It is crucial to discuss treatment options with your physician.

MAOIs

Monoamine oxide inhibitors (MAOIs), developed in the 1950s as an antidepressant, work for a variety of anxiety and depression disorders. They aren't as frequently used as SSRIs and other antidepressants due to 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 patch for skin.

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 mood, sleep appetite, sexual function. MAOIs can reduce anxiety. However, they are more likely to trigger 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 other medications or treatments that can help you manage your symptoms. For example, a beta-blocker (such as propranolol) is frequently prescribed to alleviate physical symptoms of anxiety. Your doctor may suggest a relaxation method or other home remedies to ease your symptoms.

The original MAOI, Iproniazid, was discovered during tuberculosis research in 1952. It was later discovered to have mood-elevating properties and is considered the first antidepressant medication. Typically, MAOIs are employed when other antidepressants fail to perform, as they could cause serious side effects that require immediate medical attention.

If you use an MAOI and eat foods that contain tyramine, a substance in many red meats, cheeses, shellfish, fish, and some dietary supplements, it can trigger an adverse reaction that can result in high blood pressure. This severe reaction could cause an intense headache, nausea, vomiting and a rapid heartbeat. MAOIs may also interact with other medications and result in severe side effects such as suicidal thoughts or behavior.

Before prescribing MAOIs, your doctor will discuss with you what anxiety disorder feels like foods you should avoid. He or she will advise you against eating foods that contain tyramine when taking the drug. He or she will also provide a list of food items that are safe to eat when taking MAOIs. The food guide provided can help you avoid MAOI-related side effects.