How Anxiety Disorder Medication Has Transformed My Life The Better
Types of Anxiety Disorder Medication
Medicines can be a useful tool to help manage anxiety symptoms. Psychologists have extensive experience in the use of drugs and are able to make appropriate prescriptions that reduce the risk of side effects.
The typical treatment for anxiety disorders is three-pronged and consists of therapy, exercise and medication. SSRIs are the first-choice medications to treat anxiety, however they can take up to a week for them to take effect.
SSRIs
SSRIs are the drug of choice for the majority of anxiety disorders. The latest SSRIs have better adverse effect profiles than older tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). There are a variety of SSRIs have been FDA-approved to treat generalized anxiety disorder . They include fluoxetine (aka Prozac), paraxetine, (aka Paxil), and sertraline (aka Zoloft), as along with citalopram (aka Celexa).
These drugs boost serotonin levels in the brain. They may also help to increase norepinephrine as well as BDNF. They can be used by themselves or in conjunction with psychotherapy. SSRIs may cause nausea and digestive issues, however these effects tend to diminish as the body becomes accustomed to the medication.
The exact mechanism by which SSRIs help with anxiety isn't fully understood. It is believed that SSRIs hinder 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 reduces anxiety symptoms.
In addition to reducing anxiety, SSRIs may reduce the frequency and intensity of panic attacks. They can also help with depression and other mental health conditions which often co-occur with anxiety disorders. They are often used in combination with psychotherapy or other types of cognitive behavior therapy, which can improve their effectiveness.
Unlike some other classes of antidepressants SSRIs are not believed to be addictive. It is still crucial to follow the prescriptions of your doctor. If you discontinue your medication suddenly and suddenly, it can trigger "discontinuation syndrome" and a return of anxiety symptoms.
If SSRIs do not work for you, your doctor might suggest a different antidepressant class, such as nefazodone, or mirtazapine. These medications are also effective, but carry more risk of having adverse reactions than the more recent SSRIs.
SSRIs can interact with certain foods, such as dairy products such as eggs, red meat as well as some fruits and vegetables. It is advised to avoid these foods if taking these medications. Additionally it is recommended that you do not drink alcohol when taking SSRIs since it can increase the severity of some adverse reactions.
Benzodiazepines
Benzodiazepines increase the calming effect of certain chemicals in the brain and nervous system. They enhance the effects of a neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) that inhibits the activity of nerves. These drugs are effective in treating insomnia, anxiety and other psychological disorders. They can be addictive and should only be used for a short time under medical supervision. They can be harmful when used for recreational purposes, or mixed with alcohol and other substances.
It is not uncommon for medications to be the first thing that people turn to when they have an anxiety disorder However, they're not the only treatment option. Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy, has been proven to help decrease the symptoms of anxiety disorder. 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 thinking and behavior so that you are less stressed.
The most popular benzodiazepines include alprazolam (Xanax) and chlordiazepoxide (Librium), diazepam (Valium), clorazepate (Tranxene) as well as lorazepam (Ativan), and quazepam (Dalmane). Each has a unique set of side effects, however, they all share similar pharmacological properties. For example, clorazepate is more effective in treating seizure disorders than the other benzodiazepines, and lorazepam is better for anxiety disorders than quazepam.
Benzodiazepines are very effective but they should not be used long-term because they may cause physical dependence and tolerance. In addition, they may lead to withdrawal symptoms when you stop taking them abruptly for a short period of time, such as a pounding heart, sweating and shaking. Symptoms can be very unpleasant and can last for weeks however, they can be minimized by gradually reducing the medication.
Benzodiazepines can be very addictive and should only be used for a short duration - typically not more than 4 weeks. You should be monitoring your blood pressure, heart rate and breathing closely during this period to ensure you don't suffer a severe reaction. Consult your physician when you're considering taking a benzodiazepine.
Beta-blockers
Beta-blockers can be used to treat anxiety symptoms. They block adrenaline from binding to beta receptors within your nervous system. This prevents the hormone creating physical reactions, such as heart tremors or palpitations. These drugs are usually used to treat high blood pressure and other cardiovascular issues however, they can also be prescribed for non-pharmacological use in cases of anxiety.
When you are anxious, your body produces a chemical known as adrenaline which signals your body to prepare for fight or flight. Adrenaline binds beta receptors found in the brain and the heart and causes your heart to beat more quickly and causing other physical reactions. Beta-blockers are a class medication used to treat hypertension and other heart ailments. They block adrenaline's binding actions. This helps to lower your heart rate and blood pressure.
Beta-blockers are quick to work, unlike SSRIs or benzodiazepines that require a long time to show a difference in symptoms. This makes them a great choice for those who require immediate relief from anxiety-related symptoms, such as those who need to deliver a speech in public or take an airplane. In addition, they are a good choice for people who suffer from anxiety and a chronic heart condition, such as atherosclerosis or congestive heart failure.
Beta-blockers can reduce the physical symptoms of anxiety but they do not address the root causes. This is why they are usually used as part of a larger treatment plan that includes counseling and lifestyle adjustments. However, they are an option for those who have tried other anti-anxiety drugs and do not find them to be effective or have intolerable side effects.
Propranolol, atenolol, and other beta-blockers are all available. Your doctor will determine which beta-blocker is best for you, based on your medical history and health condition. Taking these medications can have adverse effects, like low blood pressure or fatigue, so it is 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 some depression and anxiety disorders. They are not as commonly employed as SSRIs and other antidepressants due the strict dietary restrictions required and the risk of drug interactions. Some MAOIs are in tablet form and are taken orally, while 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 part in sleep, mood and appetite as well as sexual function. MAOIs also have anti-anxiety effects. However, they are more likely to cause side effects than TCAs and SSRIs and come with boxed warnings for suicide.
Your doctor may prescribe other medications or treatments to help manage your symptoms in addition the MAOIs below. For instance, a beta-blocker (such as propranolol) is usually prescribed to alleviate physical symptoms of anxiety. Your doctor may suggest relaxation techniques or other home remedies to help ease your symptoms.
Iproniazid was the first MAOI discovered in 1952 during research on tuberculosis. It was soon discovered to have mood-elevating qualities and is considered the original antidepressant drug. Typically, MAOIs can only be used when other antidepressants do not perform, as they could cause serious adverse effects that require immediate medical attention.
It could cause a risky reaction that can result in high blood pressure if you are taking 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. Symptoms of this severe reaction include nausea, throbbing headaches vomiting, and a rapid 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 dietary needs with you before prescribing MAOIs. The doctor will advise you against eating foods that contain tyramine if you are taking the drug. The doctor will also provide a list of food items that are safe to eat when taking MAOIs. This food guide can help you to avoid MAOI-related symptoms.