The Time Has Come To Expand Your Anxiety Disorder Medication Options
Types of Anxiety Disorder Medication
Medications are a great way to treat anxiety-related symptoms. Psychiatrists are trained in the prescription and use of medications. They can prescribe the appropriate medication to minimize side effects.
Typical anxiety disorder treatment is three-pronged and consists of psychotherapy, exercise and medications. SSRIs, the first option of medication to treat anxiety, can take up to several weeks to be effective.
SSRIs
SSRIs are the medication of choice for the majority of anxiety disorders. The more recent SSRIs are less likely to trigger adverse effects than tricyclics older than tricyclics as well as monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or tricyclic antidepressants. Several 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 medications boost serotonin levels in the brain. They may also help to increase norepinephrine as well as BDNF. They can be taken on their own or in combination with psychotherapy. SSRIs can have side effects, like stomach and nausea, but these usually improve as the body gets used to the medication.
The precise mechanism through which SSRIs are effective in treating anxiety is not fully understood. It is believed that SSRIs block serotonin reuptake in post-synaptic neurons and increase the amount of serotonin in the synaptic gaps. This increases the amount of signals that cross the synapse, which in turn decreases anxiety symptoms.
SSRIs can reduce anxiety and increase the frequency of panic attacks. They can also be used to treat depression and other mental disorders which are often linked to anxiety disorders. They can be used in conjunction with psychotherapy or other types of cognitive behavior therapy, which could enhance their effectiveness.
SSRIs aren't addictive, unlike other antidepressants. It is nevertheless important to follow the prescriptions of your doctor. If you discontinue your medication suddenly it could trigger "discontinuation syndrome" and a recurrence of anxiety-related symptoms.
If SSRIs aren't suitable for your needs, your doctor may look into a different kind of antidepressants, like nefazodone or mirtazapine. These drugs can be effective, but they are more at risk of adverse effects than the more recent SSRIs.
SSRIs may interact with certain food items such as dairy products such as eggs, red meat, as well as some fruits and vegetables. If you are taking these medications it is a good suggestion to avoid these food items. It is also advised to avoid drinking alcohol when you are taking SSRIs because it can increase some side effects.
Benzodiazepines
Benzodiazepines enhance the calming effects of certain chemicals in the brain and nervous system. They work by enhancing the effects of a neurotransmitter known as gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) which inhibits the nerves' activity. These drugs are effective in treating anxiety disorders, insomnia and other mental disorders. However, they can be addictive and should only be used for brief durations of time under medical supervision. Benzos may be harmful if taken recreationally or in combination with other substances like alcohol.
The use of medication is often the first thing that 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 help decrease the symptoms of anxiety disorder. There are many psychotherapies that can aid and improve your life, but the most well-known and effective is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). This kind of psychotherapy teaches you how to change your thinking and behavior so that you don't feel anxious as often.
Alprazolam, chlordiazepoxide and diazepam, clorazepate and quazepam are among the most commonly used benzodiazepines. Each has a unique list of side effects however, they all share similar pharmacological properties. For instance, clorazepate can be more effective in treating seizure disorders than the other benzodiazepines. Likewise, lorazepam is better for anxiety disorders than quazepam.
Benzodiazepines are extremely effective, but they are not recommended for long-term use since they can lead to tolerance and physical dependence. They can also cause withdrawal symptoms, such as an increase in heart rate as well as sweating and shaking if you abruptly stop taking the medication. The symptoms can be extremely uncomfortable and last for weeks, but they can be reduced by slowly reducing the medication.
Benzodiazepines can be extremely addictive and should be used only for a short period of duration - typically not more than 4 weeks. During this time, you will have to be vigilant about your blood pressure and heart rate to ensure you don't suffer an extreme withdrawal reaction. Consult your physician in the event that you are thinking of taking a benzodiazepine.
IamPsychiatry -blockers
Beta-blockers are a type of medication that is used to alleviate anxiety symptoms. They block 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 usually prescribed to treat high blood-pressure and other cardiovascular issues. However, they can be prescribed off-label to treat anxiety.
When you're stressed, your body produces a chemical called adrenaline, which signals the body to prepare for fight or flight. Adrenaline is a binder to beta receptors in the brain and heart which causes your heart to beat faster and can trigger other physical reactions. Beta-blockers are class medications used to treat hypertension and other heart ailments. They are able to block adrenaline's binding. This helps to lower the blood pressure and heart rate.
Beta-blockers work quickly, unlike SSRIs or benzodiazepines, which require weeks or even months to show an improvement in symptoms. They are a good option for those who need immediate relief from anxiety symptoms. For example, those who have to give a public speech or fly in an airplane. They also make a great option for those suffering from anxiety and chronic heart issues like atherosclerosis or congestive heart failure.
Although beta-blockers are effective in alleviating physical symptoms of anxiety, they do not treat the root of the condition. They are therefore only prescribed in conjunction with an extensive treatment plan that incorporates lifestyle modifications and counseling. They can be beneficial for those who have tried medications for anxiety and found it ineffective or had intolerable side effects.
Propranolol, atenolol, as well as other beta-blockers are also available. Your doctor will decide which beta-blocker is best for you according to your medical history and health condition. These medications can cause adverse effects, such as fatigue or low blood pressure. It is important to discuss the options for treatment with your doctor.
MAOIs
Developed in the 1950s, monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) are effective antidepressants that can treat depression and anxiety disorders. They aren't as widely utilized as SSRIs or other antidepressants due the strict dietary restrictions needed as well as the risk of drug interactions. Certain MAOIs are administered by mouth in tablet form, while others (such as Emsam) come in the form of a transdermal patch applied to the skin each day.
MAOIs block the action of MAO and increase the amount of norepinephrine and serotonin in the brain. These neurotransmitters play a role in sleep, mood, and appetite, as also in sexual function. MAOIs also have anti-anxiety properties. They are more likely than TCAs or SSRIs to cause side effects and are accompanied by warnings about suicide.
In addition to the MAOIs listed below, your doctor may prescribe additional treatments or medications that could aid in managing your symptoms. A beta-blocker, such as propranolol, is usually prescribed to ease physical symptoms of anxiety. Your doctor may recommend relaxation techniques or other home remedies to ease your symptoms.
The original MAOI, Iproniazid, was discovered during tuberculosis research in 1952. It was quickly discovered to have mood-elevating qualities and is considered to be the first antidepressant medication. Typically, MAOIs can only be employed when other antidepressants fail to work, as they may cause serious adverse effects that require immediate medical attention.
If you use an MAOI and consume foods that contain Tyramine, a chemical found in many cheeses, red meats, shellfish, fish, as well as some nutritional supplements, it can trigger a dangerous reaction that results in high blood pressure. The symptoms of this reaction include nausea, throbbing headaches vomiting, and a rapid heart rate. MAOIs can also interact other medications and trigger extreme side effects, like suicidal thoughts and behaviors.
Your doctor will discuss your dietary requirements with you prior to prescribing MAOIs. They will advise you against eating foods that contain tyramine while you are taking the medication. They may also give you the list of foods that is safe to eat when taking MAOIs. This food guide can help you to avoid MAOI-related symptoms.