7 Tips To Make The Most Of Your Anxiety Disorder Medication
Types of Anxiety Disorder Medication
The use of medications can be a beneficial instrument to manage anxiety symptoms. Psychiatrists are trained extensively in the use of medications and are able to make appropriate prescriptions that minimize side effects.
The typical treatment for anxiety disorders is three-pronged and includes psychotherapy, exercise and medications. SSRIs are the most popular option of medication to treat anxiety can take several weeks to work.
SSRIs
Most anxiety disorders are treated with SSRIs. Newer SSRIs have more favorable adverse effects than older tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). A variety of SSRIs have been approved by the FDA to treat anxiety disorders that are generalized. This includes 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 increase norepinephrine, or BDNF. They can be used alone or in conjunction with psychotherapy. SSRIs can cause nausea and digestive issues, but these side effects usually subside as the body becomes accustomed to the medication.
The exact mechanism of the action of SSRIs on anxiety isn't fully comprehended. However it is believed they block the reuptake of serotonin from the post-synaptic neuron and increase the concentration of serotonin within the synaptic gap. This increases the amount of signals that cross the synapse, and it also reduces anxiety symptoms.
SSRIs can decrease anxiety and the severity of panic attacks. They can also be employed to treat depression and other mental illnesses that are often associated with anxiety disorders. They are often used in conjunction with psychotherapy or other types of cognitive behavior therapy to improve their effectiveness.
SSRIs are not addictive, unlike other antidepressants. It is still crucial to follow the doctor's instructions. If you suddenly stop taking your medication, it can result in "discontinuation" syndrome and anxiety symptoms to come back.
If SSRIs are not suitable for you, your doctor might look into a different kind of antidepressant, such as mirtazapine or nefazodone. These drugs may also be effective, but they have a greater chance of causing adverse reactions than the more recent SSRIs.
SSRIs can interact with certain foods, like red meat, eggs dairy, some vegetables and fruits. It is best to avoid these foods if you're taking these medications. In addition, it is generally recommended that you do not drink alcohol when taking SSRIs as it may make it more difficult to deal with certain side 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), which suppresses the activity of nerves. These drugs can be effective in treating anxiety, insomnia and other mental disorders. However they can be addictive and should only be used for brief durations of time under medical supervision. Benzos can be dangerous when taken recreationally or mixed with other drugs such as alcohol.
It is not uncommon for medications to be the first thing that people seek out when they have an anxiety disorder However, they're not the only treatment option. Psychotherapy or talk therapy has also been proven to be a way to reduce anxiety disorder symptoms. There are a variety of psychotherapies, but cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is the most popular and effective. This kind of therapy helps you to change your thoughts and behavior to are less stressed.
Alprazolam, chlordiazepoxide, diazepam, clorazepate, lorazepam and quazepam are among the most popular benzodiazepines. Each of them has a distinct set of adverse effects, but they all have similar properties pharmacologically. For instance, clorazepate is more effective for treating seizure disorders than other drugs, and lorazepam works better than quazepam.
Although benzodiazepines may be effective, they are not recommended for long-term use because they can cause physical dependence and tolerance. They can also trigger withdrawal symptoms, such as a heart pounding, sweating, and shaking if you abruptly stop taking the medication. The symptoms can be uncomfortable and last for a few weeks. However they can be reduced by reducing the medication slowly.
Benzodiazepines are highly addictive and should be taken only for a short duration. Most often, it is not more than four weeks. During this period, you'll be required to monitor your heart rate and blood pressure to ensure that you don't suffer a severe withdrawal reaction. If you're thinking about taking a benzodiazepine prescription consult your physician about your history of abuse.
Beta-blockers
Beta-blockers are employed to treat anxiety-related issues. These medications stop adrenaline from binding to beta receptors in your nervous system, preventing the hormone from triggering physical responses like heart palpitations and tremors. These medications are typically used to treat high blood pressure and other cardiovascular conditions however they can be prescribed for off-label use in the case of anxiety.
When you are anxious your body produces a chemical dubbed adrenaline which signals your body to prepare for fight or flight. Adrenaline binds to beta receptors in the brain and the heart and causes your heart rate to increase and may cause other physical reactions. Beta-blockers, which are a class of medications that treat hypertension and various heart diseases, work by blocking the adrenaline binding which can help reduce your 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 an improvement in symptoms. They are a great option for those who need immediate relief from anxiety symptoms. For instance, people who are required to deliver an address to the public or travel in an airplane. They are also a good option for those suffering from anxiety and chronic heart problems such as atherosclerosis and congestive heart failure.
Beta-blockers can help reduce physical symptoms of anxiety, but they do not address the root causes. As a result, they are typically used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that incorporates counseling and lifestyle modifications. They are beneficial for those who have tried medications for anxiety and found it ineffective or had intolerable side effects.
Propranolol, atenolol, and other beta-blockers are also available. Your doctor will decide which beta-blocker is best for you, based on your medical history and health condition. These medications may cause side effects such as low blood pressure or fatigue. It is essential to discuss treatment options with your physician.
MAOIs
Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), created in the 1950s as an antidepressant, have proven to be effective for certain depression and anxiety disorders . They are not as commonly used as SSRIs and other antidepressants due the strict dietary restrictions required and the risk of drug interactions. Some MAOIs come in tablet form and can be taken orally, whereas others (such Emsam) are applied as a transdermal patch for skin.
MAOIs block the actions of MAO and increase the amount of norepinephrine and serotonin in the brain. These neurotransmitters play a role in sleep, mood appetite, sexual function. MAOIs can reduce anxiety. They are more likely than TCAs or SSRIs to trigger side effects and come with warnings about suicide.
In addition to the MAOIs mentioned below, your doctor may prescribe additional treatments or medications that could help manage your symptoms. Beta-blockers, such as propranolol, is usually prescribed to ease physical symptoms of anxiety. Your doctor may recommend relaxation techniques or other home remedies to help ease your symptoms.
Iproniazid was the first MAOI discovered in 1952 while conducting research on tuberculosis. It was soon discovered to have properties that boost mood and is considered the first antidepressant medication. MAOIs should be used only when other antidepressants have failed since they can trigger serious side-effects that require immediate medical attention.
It can cause a dangerous reaction that results in high blood pressure when you take an MAOI when you eat foods that contain tyramine. Tyramine is found in a wide variety of cheeses and red meats as well as in fish, shellfish and some dietary supplements. This serious reaction can result in headache pain that is throbbing, nausea, vomiting and a fast heartbeat. MAOIs may also interact with other medications and trigger extreme adverse effects, including suicidal thoughts and behavior.
Before prescribing MAOIs, your doctor will talk with you about the foods you need to avoid. The doctor will advise you to avoid eating any food items that contain tyramine when you are taking the medication. The doctor will also provide a list of foods that are safe to eat while on MAOIs. This food guide can help you stay clear of MAOI-related side effects.