Types of Anxiety Disorder Medication
The use of medications is a fantastic way to treat anxiety-related symptoms. Psychologists are trained in the use and prescription of medications. They can prescribe the correct medication to minimize side effects.
 Treatment for anxiety disorders is typically 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
SSRIs are the drugs that are most commonly prescribed for anxiety disorders. The more recent SSRIs are less likely to trigger adverse effects than tricyclics older than tricyclics as well as monoamine oxide inhibitors (MAOIs) or tricyclic antidepressants. There are a variety of SSRIs have been approved by FDA to treat generalized anxiety disorder. These include fluoxetine (aka Prozac), paraxetine, (aka Paxil), and sertraline (aka Zoloft), as well as citalopram, (aka Celexa).
These medicines can boost serotonin in the brain and can also boost norepinephrine or BDNF. They can be employed in combination with psychotherapy or on their own. SSRIs may cause negative effects, such as nausea and digestive issues, but these usually improve as the body gets used to the medication.
The precise mechanism through which SSRIs help with anxiety is not understood fully. It is believed that SSRIs block the reuptake serotonin by the post-synaptic neurons and increase the concentration serotonin within the synaptic gaps. This enhances the signaling across the synapses, which in turn reduces anxiety symptoms.
SSRIs can decrease anxiety and increase the frequency of panic attacks. They can also help with depression and other mental health conditions which often co-occur with anxiety disorders. They can be used with cognitive behavior therapy or psychotherapy to enhance their effectiveness.
SSRIs are not addictive, unlike some other antidepressants. However, it is essential to follow your doctor's instructions. If you stop taking your medication suddenly and suddenly, it can trigger "discontinuation syndrome" and a recurrence of anxiety symptoms.
If SSRIs do not work for you, your doctor may try a different antidepressant class, like nefazodone or mirtazapine. These drugs can also be effective, however they have a greater risk of adverse side effects than the more recent SSRIs.
SSRIs can interact with certain foods, like eggs, red meat dairy, some vegetables and fruits. It is advised to avoid these foods if taking these medications. It is also generally advised to avoid drinking alcohol while taking SSRIs since it may increase some side effects.
Benzodiazepines
Benzodiazepines enhance the calming effects of certain chemicals in the nervous system and brain. They increase the effects of the neurotransmitter gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) which is a substance which inhibits nerve activity. These drugs are effective in treating anxiety disorders, insomnia, and other psychological disorders. They can be addictive, and should only be used for a short time under medical supervision. Benzos can be dangerous if taken recreationally or mixed with other drugs, including alcohol.
It is not uncommon for medications to be the first thing that people look for when they have an anxiety disorder however they're not the only treatment option. Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy, has been proven to reduce anxiety-related symptoms. There are a myriad of psychotherapies, but cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is the most popular and effective. This type of psychotherapy can teach you how to modify your behavior and thoughts so that you don't feel anxious as often.
The most commonly used benzodiazepines are alprazolam (Xanax) and chlordiazepoxide (Librium), diazepam (Valium), clorazepate (Tranxene), the lorazepam (Ativan), and Quazepam (Dalmane). Each one has its own set of adverse effects, but they all have similar properties in pharmacology. Clorazepate, for instance, is more effective in treating seizure disorders compared to other benzodiazepines. Lorazepam on the other hand, is better in treating anxiety disorders when compared to Quazepam.
Benzodiazepines are extremely effective, but they are not recommended for long-term use because they may cause tolerance and physical dependence. They can also cause withdrawal symptoms, such as a pounding of the heart as well as sweating and shaking if you abruptly stop taking them. The symptoms can be extremely uncomfortable and last for weeks however, they can be reduced by slowly reducing the medication.
Benzodiazepines are highly addictive and should be taken only for a limited period of time. Usually, no more than four weeks. You should be monitoring your blood pressure, heart rate and breathing throughout this period to ensure you don't suffer a severe reaction. Speak to your doctor when you're considering taking the use of a benzoodiazepine.
Beta-blockers
Beta-blockers are a type of medication that can help to treat anxiety disorders are characterised by symptoms. These drugs prevent adrenaline from binding to beta receptors within your nervous system. This stops the hormone from creating physical reactions, such as heart palpitations or tremors. These drugs are typically prescribed to treat high blood pressure and other cardiovascular conditions. However, they can be prescribed off-label to treat anxiety.
When you are anxious, your body produces a chemical called adrenaline that signals the body to prepare for fight or flight. Adrenaline binds beta receptors in the brain and heart and causes your heart to beat faster and causing other physical reactions. Beta-blockers are class medications used to treat hypertension and other heart conditions. They work by blocking adrenaline's binding actions. This helps to lower the heart rate and blood pressure.
Beta-blockers can be used quickly, in contrast to SSRIs or benzodiazepines, which take weeks or even months to show improvement in symptoms. This makes them a great choice for those who require immediate relief from anxiety-related symptoms like those who have to give an address in public or fly on an airplane. Additionally, they are a good choice for people who suffer from anxiety as well as a chronic heart condition such as atherosclerosis or congestive heart failure.
Beta-blockers can help reduce physical symptoms of anxiety, but they don't address the underlying causes. They are only prescribed in conjunction with an overall treatment plan that incorporates lifestyle adjustments and counseling. They can be beneficial for those who have tried anti-anxiety medication and found it ineffective or had unpalatable side effects.
Propranolol, atenolol, as well as other beta-blockers are also available. Your doctor will determine which beta-blocker is best for you depending on your medical history and health condition. These medications may cause adverse effects, such as fatigue or low blood pressure. It is essential to discuss your options with your physician.
MAOIs
In the 1950s, monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) are effective antidepressants that can treat depression and anxiety disorders. They aren't as frequently utilized as SSRIs or other antidepressants due the strict dietary restrictions required and the risk of interactions with other drugs. Some MAOIs can be taken by mouth in tablet form, while others (such as Emsam) come in the form of a transdermal patch that's applied to the skin every day.
MAOIs block the action of MAO and increase the amount of norepinephrine as well as serotonin in the brain. These neurotransmitters play a part in sleep, mood and appetite, as in sexual function as well. MAOIs also have effects on Anxiety disorders questionnaire. They are more likely than TCAs or SSRIs to cause side effects and are accompanied by warnings regarding suicide.
In addition to the MAOIs listed below your doctor may prescribe other medications or treatments that can help manage your symptoms. A beta-blocker, such as propranolol, is usually prescribed to alleviate the physical symptoms associated with anxiety. Your doctor may suggest a relaxation technique or other treatments at home to ease your symptoms.
The original MAOI, Iproniazid, was discovered during tuberculosis research in 1952. It was quickly discovered to possess mood-enhancing properties and is considered the original antidepressant drug. MAOIs should only be used after other antidepressants have failed because they can trigger serious side-effects that require immediate medical attention.
It could cause a risky reaction resulting in high blood pressure if you take an MAOI while eating foods that contain tyramine. Tyramine is found in a variety of cheeses and red meats as well as in shellfish, fish and a few dietary supplements. The symptoms of this reaction include a throbbing headache, nausea, vomiting, and fast heart rate. MAOIs can also interact with other medications and result in severe side effects such as suicidal thoughts or behaviors.
 Your doctor will discuss your diet requirements with you prior to prescribing MAOIs. The doctor will advise you to avoid eating foods containing tyramine while taking the drug. The doctor will also provide an inventory of food that are safe to eat when taking MAOIs. This food guide can help you stay clear of MAOI-related side effects.
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The Little-Known Benefits Of Anxiety Disorder Medication
