5 Reasons Anxiety Disorder Medication Is Actually A Great Thing
Types of Anxiety Disorder Medication
Medications can be a valuable tool for managing anxiety symptoms. Psychiatrists are trained extensively in the use of medication and are able to formulate appropriate prescriptions that minimize the adverse effects.
Treatment for anxiety disorders is usually three-pronged: medication, psychotherapy and exercise. SSRIs are the first choice to treat anxiety, however they may take a few weeks for them to be effective.
SSRIs
The majority of anxiety disorders are treated with SSRIs. The latest SSRIs have more favorable adverse effects than tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). 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 can boost serotonin in the brain, and may also help to boost norepinephrine or BDNF. They can be taken on their own or in combination with psychotherapy. SSRIs can cause nausea or digestive issues, however these effects tend to diminish as the body gets used to the medication.
The precise mechanism through which SSRIs are effective in treating anxiety is not fully understood. However it is believed they hinder the reuptake process of serotonin from the post-synaptic neurons and increase the amount of serotonin in the synaptic gap. This improves the signaling between the synapses, which reduces anxiety symptoms.
In addition to reducing anxiety, SSRIs may reduce the frequency and severity of panic attacks. They can also help with depression and other mental health disorders that often co-occur with anxiety disorders. They can be combined with psychotherapy or cognitive behavior therapy to enhance their effectiveness.
SSRIs are not addictive, unlike some other antidepressants. However, it is crucial to follow your doctor's instructions precisely. If you stop taking your medication abruptly, this can cause "discontinuation syndrome" and a return of anxiety-related symptoms.
If SSRIs aren't for your needs, your doctor may try a different class of antidepressants, like nefazodone or mirtazapine. These drugs can also be effective, however they are more at risk of adverse effects than the newer SSRIs.
SSRIs may interact with certain foods, such as dairy products and red meat, eggs as well as some fruits and vegetables. If you are taking these medications, it is a good idea to stay clear of these foods. In addition it is generally advised that you do not drink alcohol while taking SSRIs since it can increase the severity of some side effects.
Benzodiazepines
Benzodiazepines increase the calming effect of certain chemicals found in the brain and nervous system. They increase the effects of the neurotransmitter gamma aminobutyric acids (GABA) which is a chemical which inhibits nerve activity. These drugs are effective in treating insomnia, anxiety, and other mental disorders. However they can also be addictive and should only be used for short durations of time under medical supervision. They can be harmful when used in a recreational manner, or when mixed with alcohol or other substances.
Medications are often the first thing people look for when they have an anxiety disorder however they're not the only option for treatment. Psychotherapy or talk therapy has also been proven to be an effective method to decrease anxiety symptoms. There are many psychotherapies that can aid, but the most popular and effective is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). This kind of therapy helps you to alter your thinking and behavior to are less stressed.
Alprazolam, chlordiazepoxide, diazepam Clorazepate, lorazepam, and quazepam are the most popular benzodiazepines. Each of them has a distinct set of adverse effects, although they all share similar properties pharmacologically. For instance, clorazepate can be more effective for treating seizures than other benzodiazepines. Likewise, lorazepam is better for anxiety disorders than quazepam.
Although benzodiazepines may be effective, they are not advised for long-term use due to the fact that they can cause physical dependence and tolerance. In addition, they can lead to withdrawal symptoms in the event that you stop taking them suddenly like sweating, a pounding heart and shaking. The symptoms can be unpleasant and last for several weeks. However, they can be minimized when you reduce the medication gradually.
Benzodiazepines are highly addictive and should be used only for a limited period of time. Usually, no more than four weeks. You must monitor your heart rate, blood pressure and your breathing during this time to ensure that you don't have an extreme reaction. Talk to your doctor in the event that you are thinking of taking using a benzoodiazepine.
Beta-blockers
Beta-blockers are an type of medication that can help to alleviate anxiety symptoms. These drugs prevent 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 issues however they can be prescribed for off-label use in the case of anxiety.
When you're stressed your body produces a chemical dubbed adrenaline that signals the body to prepare for fight or flight. Adrenaline is a beta receptor that is found in the heart and brain and causes your heart to beat more quickly and triggering a variety of physical reactions. Beta-blockers are a class of medication used to treat hypertension and other heart ailments. They block adrenaline's binding. This can help lower the blood pressure and heart rate.
Beta-blockers can be used quickly, in contrast to SSRIs or benzodiazepines that require weeks or even months to show improvement in symptoms. They are a good choice for people who require immediate relief from the symptoms of anxiety. For example, those who must give an address to the public or travel in an airplane. They are also a good option for those suffering from anxiety and chronic heart issues, such as atherosclerosis or congestive cardiac failure.
Beta-blockers can help reduce physical symptoms of anxiety, but they do not address the root causes. They are only prescribed in conjunction with a comprehensive treatment plan that includes lifestyle modifications and counseling. However, they are a useful option for people who have tried other anti-anxiety drugs and do not find them to be effective or to have intolerable side effects.
There are many different kinds of beta-blockers, including propranolol and atenolol. Your doctor will determine which one is best for you depending on your medical history and health status. These medications can trigger negative side effects like 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 for some anxiety and depression disorders. They are not as commonly utilized as SSRIs or other antidepressants because of the strict dietary restrictions that are required as well as the risk of drug interactions. Certain MAOIs are available in tablet form and are taken orally, while others (such Emsam) are applied as a transdermal patch for skin.
MAOIs inhibit the action of MAO which increases the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. These neurotransmitters play an important role in sleep, mood, and appetite as also in sexual function. MAOIs have an anti-anxiety effect. However, panic anxiety disorder are more likely to cause side effects than TCAs and SSRIs and are accompanied by warnings in boxes for suicide.
Your doctor may prescribe additional medicines or treatments to treat your symptoms in addition the MAOIs below. A beta-blocker, like propranolol, is often prescribed to reduce physical symptoms of anxiety. Your doctor may suggest relaxation techniques or other home remedies to alleviate your symptoms.
The first MAOI, Iproniazid, was discovered during tuberculosis research in 1952. It was quickly discovered that it could have mood-elevating qualities and is considered to be the first antidepressant drug. MAOIs should be used only after other antidepressants have failed, as they can trigger serious side-effects that require immediate medical attention.
It could trigger a serious reaction resulting in high blood pressure if you are taking an MAOI when you eat foods that contain tyramine. Tyramine is present in a variety of red meats and cheeses as well as in shellfish, fish and some dietary supplement. The symptoms of this serious reaction include nausea, throbbing headaches vomiting, and a rapid heart rate. MAOIs can also interact with other medications and cause serious side effects, such as suicidal thoughts or behavior.
Your doctor will discuss your diet requirements with you prior to prescribing MAOIs. The doctor will advise you to stay clear of eating foods that contain tyramine while taking the drug. He or she will also provide a list of foods that are safe to consume while on MAOIs. This food guide can help to avoid MAOI-related symptoms.