15 Amazing Facts About Anxiety Disorder Medication You've Never Known
Author : Parrott Higgins | Published On : 14 May 2024
Types of Anxiety Disorder MedicationMedicines are a great option to manage anxiety symptoms. Psychiatrists have extensive training in the use of drugs and are able to formulate appropriate prescriptions that minimize side effects.
The typical treatment for anxiety disorders is three-pronged, and includes psychotherapy, exercise and medication. SSRIs are the first-choice medications for treating anxiety, but they can take up to a week 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. Several SSRIs are FDA-approved to treat generalized anxiety disorder , including fluoxetine (aka Prozac), paroxetine (aka Paxil), sertraline (aka Zoloft), and citalopram (aka Celexa).
These drugs boost serotonin levels in the brain. They can aid in increasing norepinephrine as well as BDNF. They can be employed in conjunction with psychotherapy or alone. SSRIs may cause negative effects, such as stomach and nausea 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 hinder the reuptake process of serotonin from the post-synaptic neurons and increase the amount of serotonin within the synaptic gap. This increases the amount of signals that cross the synapse, which it also reduces anxiety symptoms.
SSRIs can help reduce anxiety and the severity of panic attacks. They can also be used to treat depression as well as other mental disorders which are often linked to anxiety disorders. They can be used with psychotherapy or cognitive behavior therapy to enhance their effectiveness.
Contrary to other classes of antidepressants, SSRIs do not appear to be addictive. Nevertheless, it is important to follow your doctor's instructions exactly. If you suddenly stop taking your medication, it may result in "discontinuation" syndrome and anxiety symptoms to come back.
If SSRIs do not work for you, then your physician might suggest an alternative class of antidepressants, such as nefazodone, or mirtazapine. These medications may also be effective, however they are more prone to the chance of causing adverse reactions than the newer SSRIs.
SSRIs may interact with certain foods such as dairy products and eggs, red meat, as well as some fruits and vegetables. It is recommended to stay clear of these foods if you are taking these medications. It is also generally recommended to stay clear of alcohol when taking SSRIs, as this can cause some adverse effects.
Benzodiazepines
Benzodiazepines enhance the calming effects of certain chemicals found in the nervous system and brain. They function by enhancing the effects of a neurotransmitter named gamma-aminobutyric acids (GABA) that inhibits the activity of nerves. These drugs are effective in treating insomnia, anxiety disorders, and other psychological disorders. However they can be addictive and should only be used for short durations under medical supervision. They can be harmful when used in a recreational manner, or when combined with alcohol and other substances.
When people have anxiety disorders, they usually look to medication as the first option. However it's not the only option. Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy, has been shown to help reduce anxiety-related symptoms. There are many different psychotherapies, but cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) is the most well-known and effective. This type of psychotherapy can teach you how to change your thinking and behavior to make you less anxious as much.
Alprazolam, chlordiazepoxide and diazepam, clorazepate and quazepam are the most popular benzodiazepines. They all share similar chemical properties, however each has its own distinct side effects profile. For instance, clorazepate is more effective for treating seizure disorders than other benzodiazepines, and lorazepam is better than quazepam.
Benzodiazepines are extremely effective, but they are not recommended for long-term use because they can cause physical dependence and tolerance. They can also cause withdrawal symptoms, such as a pounding of the heart, sweating, and shaking if you abruptly stop taking them. The symptoms can be extremely uncomfortable and last for several weeks, but they can be reduced by slowly reducing the medication.
Benzodiazepines are extremely addictive and should only be used for a brief period of duration - typically not more than 4 weeks. You should be monitoring your heart rate, blood pressure and breathing closely during this time to ensure that you do not have an extreme reaction. Consult your physician if you are considering a benzodiazepine.
Beta-blockers
Beta-blockers can be used to treat anxiety symptoms. These drugs prevent adrenaline from binding with beta receptors in the nervous system. This stops the hormone from producing physical reactions such as heart palpitations or tremors. These drugs are commonly used to treat high blood pressure and other cardiovascular issues however, they can also be prescribed for off-label use in cases of anxiety.
If you are stressed, your body produces a chemical called adrenaline, which signals the body to prepare for fight or flight. Adrenaline is a beta receptor that is found in the brain and heart, causing your heart to beat more quickly and triggering other physical reactions. Beta-blockers are a class medication used to treat hypertension and other heart-related conditions. They block adrenaline's binding action. This helps to lower your blood pressure and heart rate.
Beta-blockers work quickly, unlike SSRIs or benzodiazepines, which require weeks or even months to show a difference in symptoms. This makes them a good alternative for those who require immediate relief from their anxiety symptoms, such as those who need to deliver an address in public or travel on an airplane. They also make a great alternative for people suffering from anxiety and chronic heart conditions, such as atherosclerosis or congestive heart failure.
Although beta-blockers are effective in reducing the physical symptoms of anxiety, they do not address the underlying cause of the disorder. They are only prescribed as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that incorporates lifestyle changes and counseling. They can be beneficial for those who have tried anti-anxiety medication but found it to be ineffective or had intolerable side effects.
Propranolol, atenolol, as well as other beta-blockers are all available. Your doctor will decide which beta-blocker is best for you, based on your medical history and health status. These medications can trigger side effects, such as low blood pressure or fatigue It is therefore important to discuss your treatment options with your physician.
MAOIs
The first MAOIs were developed in the 1950s. monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) are effective antidepressants for a variety of anxiety and depression disorders. They are not as commonly utilized as SSRIs or other antidepressants because of the strict dietary restrictions needed as well as the risk of drug interactions. 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 and appetite, as in sexual function as well. MAOIs can reduce anxiety. They are more likely than TCAs or SSRIs to cause adverse effects and are accompanied by warnings regarding suicide.
Your doctor may prescribe additional medications or treatments to help manage your symptoms, in addition to the MAOIs below. A beta-blocker, like propranolol, is usually prescribed to alleviate the physical symptoms associated with anxiety. Your doctor may suggest relaxation techniques or other home remedies to alleviate your symptoms.
Iproniazid was the first MAOI discovered in 1952 during research on tuberculosis. It was quickly discovered that it could 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 effects that require immediate medical attention.
If you use an MAOI and consume foods that contain Tyramine, a chemical found that is found in many red meats, cheeses shellfish, fish, as well as some nutritional supplements, it can trigger an unintentional reaction that results in high blood pressure. The symptoms of this reaction include a throbbing headache, nausea vomiting, and a rapid heart rate. MAOIs can also interact other medications and trigger severe adverse effects, including 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 stay clear of eating foods containing tyramine while taking the drug. He or she may also give you a list of food that are safe to consume when taking MAOIs. The food guide provided can help you avoid MAOI-related side effects.
