Types of Anxiety Disorder Medication
The use of medications can be a beneficial tool to help manage anxiety symptoms. Psychiatrists are trained extensively in the use of medication and are able to formulate the right prescriptions to minimize side effects.
Typical anxiety disorder treatment is three-pronged and includes psychotherapy, exercise and medication. SSRIs, the first option of medication to treat anxiety, can take up to several weeks to work.
SSRIs
The majority of anxiety disorders are treated with SSRIs. The latest SSRIs have more favorable adverse effects than tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) and monoamine oxide inhibitors (MAOIs). 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 can increase serotonin in the brain, and may also help to boost norepinephrine or BDNF. They can be used alone or in conjunction with psychotherapy. SSRIs may cause adverse effects, such as nausea and digestive issues However, these tend to improve as the body becomes used to the medication.
The precise mechanism through which SSRIs are effective in treating anxiety is not fully understood. However, it is believed that they inhibit the reuptake of serotonin from the post-synaptic neuron and increase the concentration of serotonin within the synaptic gap. This enhances the signaling across the synapses, which reduces anxiety symptoms.
In addition to decreasing anxiety, SSRIs may reduce the frequency and intensity of panic attacks. They can also help with depression and other mental health conditions that are often associated with anxiety disorders. They can be utilized in combination with psychotherapy or other forms of cognitive behavior therapy to increase their effectiveness.
In contrast to other classes of antidepressants, SSRIs don't appear to be addictive. Nevertheless, it is important to follow your doctor's instructions exactly. If you suddenly stop taking your medication, it can cause "discontinuation" syndrome and anxiety symptoms to come back.
If SSRIs do not work for you, then your doctor might suggest a different antidepressant class, like nefazodone or mirtazapine. These medications are also efficient, but they carry greater risk of adverse effects than the more recent SSRIs.
SSRIs may interact with certain foods such as dairy products such as eggs, red meat, and certain fruits and vegetables. It is advised to avoid these foods if you're taking these medications. It is also generally advised to avoid drinking alcohol when you are taking SSRIs since it may increase some side effects.
Benzodiazepines
Benzodiazepines increase the calming effect of certain chemicals found in 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 drugs are effective in treating insomnia, anxiety disorders, and other mental disorders. However they can also be addictive and should only be used for short durations under medical supervision. They can be harmful when used for recreational purposes, or mixed with alcohol or other substances.
It is not uncommon for medications to be the first thing people look for when they have an anxiety disorder, but they're not the only option for treatment. Psychotherapy or talk therapy has also been proven to be an effective way to reduce anxiety disorder symptoms. There are many psychotherapies that can help however the most well-known and effective is cognitive behavior therapy (CBT). This kind of psychotherapy teaches you how to change your thoughts and behaviors so that you don't feel anxious as often.
Alprazolam, chlordiazepoxide, diazepam Clorazepate, lorazepam, and quazepam are the most commonly used benzodiazepines. Each one has its own list of side effects although they all share similar properties in pharmacology. For instance, clorazepate can be more effective for treating seizure disorders than the other drugs, and lorazepam works more effective for treating anxiety disorders than quazepam.
Although benzodiazepines can be very efficient, they are not recommended for long-term use as they can cause physical dependence and tolerance. In addition, they can lead to withdrawal symptoms when you stop taking them abruptly for a short period of time, such as a pounding heart, sweating and shaking. The symptoms can be unpleasant and last for a long time. However, they can be minimized if you taper off the medication slowly.
Benzodiazepines are highly addictive and should be taken only for a brief period of time. Most often, it is not more than four weeks. During this time, you will be required to monitor your blood pressure and heart rate to ensure that you don't suffer a severe withdrawal reaction. Speak to your doctor in the event that you are thinking of taking using a drug called benzodiazepine.
Beta-blockers
Beta-blockers are a kind of medication that is used to treat anxiety symptoms. They prevent adrenaline from binding to beta receptors in your nervous system, which prevents the hormone from triggering physical reactions like heart palpitations and tremors. These drugs are commonly used to treat high blood pressure and other conditions of the cardiovascular system however, they can also be prescribed for off-label use in the case of anxiety.
When you feel anxious your body releases a chemical known as Adrenaline. This chemical signals your body to prepare itself to fight or flee. Adrenaline binds beta receptors found in the brain and heart, causing your heart to beat faster and triggering other physical reactions. Beta-blockers are an class of drugs that is used to treat hypertension and other heart conditions are able to block the action of adrenaline on its binding which reduces the heart rate and blood pressure.
Contrary to SSRIs and benzodiazepines that take a few weeks or months to make a noticeable difference in your symptoms, beta-blockers work quickly. They are a good choice for those who require immediate relief from anxiety symptoms. For instance, those who must give a public speech or fly in an airplane. They are also a good option for people with anxiety and chronic heart issues such as atherosclerosis and congestive heart failure.
Beta-blockers may reduce physical symptoms of anxiety but they don't address the root causes. They are only prescribed as part of an extensive treatment plan that incorporates lifestyle modifications and counseling. However, they can be a useful option for people who have tried other anti-anxiety medications and have not found them to be effective or to cause uncontrollable side effects.
Propranolol and atenolol as well as other beta-blockers are available. Your doctor will determine which beta-blocker is right for you depending on your medical history and current health status. These medications can cause adverse effects, such as low blood pressure or fatigue. It is essential to discuss treatment options with your physician.
MAOIs
Developed in the 1950s, monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) are effective antidepressants that can treat depression and anxiety disorders. However, they are not used as frequently as SSRIs or other antidepressants due the need for strict diet restrictions and risks of drug interactions. Some MAOIs come in tablet form and are taken orally, whereas others (such Emsam) are applied as a transdermal skin patch.
MAOIs inhibit the action of MAO, thereby increasing the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine within the brain. These neurotransmitters are involved in mood, sleep, appetite, and 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 treatments or medications that could help manage your symptoms. Beta-blockers, such as propranolol, is usually prescribed to alleviate the physical symptoms of anxiety. Your doctor may also recommend 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 soon found to have mood-elevating properties and is considered the first antidepressant medication. Generally, MAOIs are only used when other antidepressants don't perform, as they could cause serious side effects that require immediate medical attention.
It can cause a dangerous reaction resulting in high blood pressure if you are taking an MAOI while eating foods that contain tyramine. Tyramine is present in many cheeses and red meats as well as in shellfish, fish and some dietary supplement. The symptoms of this serious reaction include nausea, throbbing headaches vomiting, as well as a fast heart rate. MAOIs can also interact other medications and trigger severe side effects, like suicidal thoughts, behaviors, and even suicidal thoughts.
Your doctor will discuss your dietary needs with you before prescribing MAOIs. The doctor will advise you to avoid eating foods that contain tyramine when taking the medication. He or she will also provide an inventory of food that is safe to eat when taking MAOIs. This food guide will help you to avoid MAOI-related symptoms.