The Myths And Facts Behind Best Meds For Anxiety Disorders

Author : Cochrane Peterson | Published On : 06 May 2024

What Are the Best Medications For Anxiety Disorders?

A three-prong approach is typically suggested for treating anxiety disorders: psychotherapy, exercise and medication. The first choice for treating anxiety are antidepressants. Newer medications, such as nefazodone or mirtazapine which have a lower chance of suicide and have fewer side effects are better tolerated by patients than older antidepressants like tCAs or monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs).

Most people can manage their anxiety symptoms by taking medications to reduce the signals of fear in the brain. These include SNRIs and SSRIs.

Benzodiazepines

They work by facilitating the binding of the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA and various receptors in the central nervous system. They are considered to be a safer and less harmful class of CNS depressants than their predecessors barbiturates. They are utilized as anxiolytics (anxiety medication) as well as the hypnotics (sleep medications) and anticonvulsants to treat seizure disorders. They are typically prescribed in low doses and are less likely to cause delirium or anticholinergic toxicity than older drugs. However there are dangers and side effects that need to be assessed before taking these drugs. For example, chronic use of benzodiazepines may impair memory and cause withdrawal symptoms, particularly if the drug is combined in conjunction with other CNS depressants like opioids or alcohol. There are also those who find that it diminishes the effectiveness of antidepressants. Benzodiazepines should not be used in patients with geriatric or pediatric illnesses and should be avoided in conjunction with medical conditions such as depression.

They are available in various dosages and formulations and have a variety of pharmacological properties. They differ in how fast they perform and how long they last, and their side effects. The benzodiazepines with longer-acting effects like chlordiazepoxide, clorazepate, clobazam and diazepam are typically used for anxiety, insomnia, and seizures.

Constipation, fatigue and blurred vision are some of the most frequently reported side effects of benzodiazepines. Some sufferers also experience headaches, nausea, and weight loss. However, these side effects are generally mild and will disappear after a long period of use. It is more beneficial to lower the dose of benzodiazepines rather then stopping abruptly as they can trigger withdrawal symptoms, such as irritability and difficulty sleeping.

Other medications that can treat anxiety disorders include SSRIs, serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, SNRIs; atypical antidepressants such as mirtazapine; and beta-blockers. SSRIs, SNRIs, and beta-blockers work by increasing the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in your brain. This can help reduce anxiety. Atypical antidepressants increase these chemical levels through different pathways and can treat other mental disorders, such as depression. Beta-blockers, which are commonly heart medications, may also be used in small doses to treat anxiety, like stage fright by reducing the adrenaline rush that causes shaking and a rapid heartbeat.

SSRIs

The most commonly prescribed drugs for anxiety disorders are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). These drugs increase levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that plays a role in mood. They also increase levels of norepinephrine - another neurotransmitter which affects mood. Paroxetine and fluoxetine are the most well-known SSRIs used to treat anxiety. These SSRIs include citalopram and sertraline, and nefazodone.

There are other medicines that may help with anxiety-related symptoms. Antihistamines, beta-blockers and alpha (e.g. propranolol and Clonidine) as well as benzodiazepines and others are all available. Antihistamines are particularly helpful during a panic attack as they can cause a state of drowsiness that can ease anxiety. They can trigger adverse reactions like dry mouth, constipation, and anxiety. You can also be at risk if you take these drugs while driving.

Benzodiazepines are sedatives that function by increasing the activity of certain neurotransmitters that transmit signals between brain cells. These medications can help you relax and sleep, and are usually prescribed for short-term usage. These medications can become addictive, so you should only use them under the supervision of a physician.

Tricyclic antidepressants can also be effective in treating anxiety. These medications work similar to SSRIs and boost the levels of serotonin, norepinephrine and other chemicals in your body that influence mood. They are typically started at a low dose and gradually increased. Some of these medicines can cause weight increase and sedation, dry mouth and urinary tract issues as well as arrhythmias.

Monoamine oxidase inhibitors are older antidepressants which have been proven to be effective in treating anxiety, however, they are not widely used because of side effects like weight gain, dry mouth and sedation. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors can affect negatively certain medications and foods. This includes SSRIs and some birth control pills. They may also be affected by allergy and cold medication, acetaminophen and ibuprofen.

You will feel more relaxed and in control of your life by taking right medication for your anxiety. It is also important to master stress management techniques. Avoiding unhealthy foods and exercise, avoiding alcohol and tobacco, and eliminating watching or reading news reports that cause anxiety are important steps. Joining a support group for anxiety will help you meet people who share similar struggles and teach you coping techniques.

Tricyclic antidepressants

A variety of medications can be used to treat anxiety disorders, including SSRIs, benzodiazepines, and tricyclic antidepressants. Some of these drugs boost the levels of certain brain chemicals such as serotonin or norepinephrine. These medications can be taken regularly or as required. Some drugs take a few weeks to take effect, but they can eliminate anxiety or make it easier to manage. However, they won't be effective if the medication is stopped.

SSRIs can be used to treat anxiety, and prevent symptoms from returning. These include citalopram and escitalopram, fluvoxamine and sertraline. SSRIs have no adverse effects and are generally safe. SSRIs are often combined with other treatments for anxiety, including psychotherapy or exercise.

Beta blockers are a different kind of medication that can be used to treat anxiety. These are usually used to treat heart issues, but can be helpful for people suffering from anxiety and fears. They aid in reducing anxiety symptoms by reducing heart rate and decreasing blood pressure. Propranolol, and atenolol are the most frequently prescribed beta blockers.

People suffering from panic disorder or a phobia can benefit from sedatives taken as needed, such as lorazepam. These medications can be taken prior to an event that is stressful and can be used to ease anxiety symptoms. They can be habit-forming, therefore it is crucial to only use them when needed.


In general, SSRIs and SNRIs can be utilized as first-line medication to treat anxiety. They are well-tolerated as well as safe and effective in controlled studies that are randomized. However, the unique drug characteristics and comorbid conditions of patients must be considered. mixed anxiety depressive disorder with a depression history may need an increased dose than a person who is not depressed.

Monoamine oxide (MAOI) is the most effective treatment of social anxiety or performance anxiety. These medications increase the amount of neurotransmitters which regulate mood. They are usually taken at a low dose and then gradually increased. They can be taken on their own or in combination with benzodiazepine. MAOIs may interact with other medications, including SSRIs as well as certain birth control pills. They may also interact with acetaminophen Ibuprofen, cold and allergy medicines.

Monoamine oxidase inhibitors

Many medications are used to treat anxiety disorders and work well for many people. These include benzodiazepines and anticonvulsants and antidepressants. Benzodiazepines act as GABA-A agonists and can be beneficial in the short term to reduce anxiety symptoms. They also aid in decreasing muscle spasms, seizures and hypnotic state. However, benzodiazepines aren't suitable for long-term use and may cause dependence. Antidepressants however, can help to reduce both anxiety and depression. These drugs can take as long as six weeks to begin working, but are highly effective for the majority of people. These drugs can cause sexual side effects in some individuals, but they are generally manageable.

SSRIs and SNRIs raise levels of serotonin and norepinephrine. These are two important hormones and neurotransmitters that influence mood. They are typically the first line treatment for most anxiety disorders. They can be taken regularly to treat symptoms or as needed. Antidepressants can cause dry mouth, nausea and weight increase. They can also increase the risk of suicidal thoughts, so they should only be used as long as necessary.

Another option is beta-blockers, which are typically used to treat heart conditions. Propranolol or Inderal, is often prescribed to treat social anxiety disorders off-label. This medication is an excellent choice to relieve the physical symptoms of anxiety, including shaking and high blood pressure. It can also reduce stress hormones like norepinephrine and adrenaline, which are present in a state of anxiety.

Anticonvulsants, such as gabapentin pregabalin and tiagabine possess GABAergic effects. These drugs are approved by the FDA approval for neuropathic pain and antidepressant pain.

TCAs are also tricyclic antidepressants, which boost the levels of serotonin within the brain. They also inhibit the activity of monoamine oxidese, responsible for breaking down these chemicals. They can also help reduce the effects of bipolar and mania disorder. These drugs can cause many side effects, such as dry mouth, weight gain and sedation. They can also increase your risk of developing hypotension, urinary hesitancy or retention and arrhythmias.