Types of Anxiety Disorder Medication

Medicines can be a useful tool to help manage anxiety symptoms. Psychiatrists are trained in the use and prescription of medication. They can prescribe the appropriate medication to minimize side effects.

The typical treatment for anxiety disorders is three-pronged and includes therapy, exercise and medication. SSRIs are the most popular choice of medications for treating anxiety can take several weeks to work.

SSRIs

SSRIs are the drugs that are most commonly prescribed for anxiety disorders. The latest SSRIs are less likely to trigger adverse effects than older tricyclics and monoamine oxide inhibitors (MAOIs) or tricyclic antidepressants. A variety of 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 increase serotonin levels in the brain and may also help to increase norepinephrine and BDNF. They can be used alone or in combination with psychotherapy. SSRIs can have side effects, like nausea and digestive issues, but these usually improve as the body gets used to the medication.

The precise mechanism behind how SSRIs help with anxiety isn't fully understood. However it is believed they hinder the reuptake process of serotonin from the post-synaptic neuron and increase the amount of serotonin within the synaptic gap. This increases the amount of signals that cross the synapse, which in turn decreases anxiety symptoms.

In addition to decreasing anxiety disorders Effects, SSRIs may reduce the frequency and severity of panic attacks. They also can help with depression and other mental health disorders that are often associated with anxiety disorders. They can be combined with cognitive behavior therapy or psychotherapy to improve their effectiveness.

SSRIs aren't addictive, unlike some other antidepressants. However, it is crucial to follow the prescription of your doctor. If you suddenly stop taking your medication, it could result in "discontinuation" syndrome and anxiety symptoms to return.

If SSRIs do not work for you, your doctor may try an alternative class of antidepressants, such as nefazodone, mirtazapine. These drugs may be effective, but they are more prone to the risk of adverse side effects than the newer SSRIs.

SSRIs can interact with certain foods, such as red meat, eggs dairy, certain fruits and vegetables. If you are taking these medications it is a wise idea to stay clear of these foods. It is also generally recommended that you avoid alcohol when taking SSRIs since it may cause a number of side effects.

Benzodiazepines

Benzodiazepines boost the calming effect of certain chemicals in the nervous system and brain. They increase the effects of the neurotransmitter gamma aminobutyric acids (GABA) which is a substance which inhibits nerve activity. These medications can be very effective in treating anxiety, insomnia and other psychological disorders. They can be addictive and should be used only for brief periods under medical supervision. They can be harmful when used for recreational purposes, or mixed with alcohol an used to treat anxiety disorder help-related symptoms. These drugs block adrenaline from binding to beta receptors in your nervous system, which prevents the hormone from triggering physical responses such as heart palpitations and tremors. These medications are usually prescribed to treat high blood pressure and other cardiovascular issues. However they are also available off-label to treat anxiety.

When you feel anxious, your body releases a chemical known as Adrenaline. This chemical signals your body to prepare itself for fight or flight. Adrenaline binds to beta receptors in the brain and the heart which causes your heart to beat faster and can trigger other physical reactions. Beta-blockers, a class of medications that treat hypertension and other heart conditions they work by preventing the adrenaline binding, which helps to reduce the heart rate and blood pressure.

Beta-blockers are quick to work, unlike SSRIs or benzodiazepines which can require a long time to show a difference in symptoms. They are an excellent option for those who need immediate relief from the symptoms of anxiety. For example, those who are required to deliver an address to the public or travel in an airplane. Additionally, they are an excellent choice for those who suffer from anxiety as well as a chronic heart issue, such as atherosclerosis or congestive cardiac failure.

Beta-blockers may reduce physical symptoms of anxiety, but they don't address the root causes. They are only prescribed in conjunction with a comprehensive treatment plan that incorporates lifestyle changes and counseling. They can be beneficial for those who have tried medication for hyper anxiety disorder and found it to be ineffective, or had intolerable side effects.

Propranolol, atenolol, as well as other beta-blockers are all available. Your doctor will decide which one is best for you depending on your medical history and health status. These medications can cause adverse effects, such as low blood pressure or fatigue. It is essential to discuss treatment options with your physician.

MAOIs

The first MAOIs were developed in the 1950s. monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) are effective antidepressants for some anxiety and depression disorders. However, they aren't utilized as often as SSRIs or other antidepressants due the requirement for strict dietary restrictions and the potential for interactions with other drugs. Certain MAOIs are administered orally in tablet form, while others (such as Emsam) are available in the form of a transdermal patch that's applied to the skin every day.

MAOIs inhibit the action of MAO which increases the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine within the brain. These neurotransmitters are involved in mood, sleep, appetite, and sexual function. MAOIs can reduce anxiety. However they are more likely to cause adverse effects than TCAs and SSRIs and carry warnings on suicide in a box.

Your doctor may prescribe additional medications or treatments to help manage your symptoms in addition to the MAOIs below. Beta-blockers, such as propranolol, is usually prescribed to ease physical symptoms that are associated with anxiety. Your doctor might suggest a relaxation method, or other home treatments to alleviate your symptoms.

Iproniazid was the first MAOI discovered in 1952 while conducting research on tuberculosis. It was later discovered to have mood-elevating properties and is believed to be the first antidepressant medication. MAOIs should only be used in cases where other antidepressants have failed because they can trigger serious side-effects that require immediate medical attention.

It can cause a dangerous reaction resulting in high blood pressure if you take an MAOI when you eat foods that contain tyramine. Tyramine is present in a variety of red meats and cheeses as well as in fish, shellfish and some dietary supplement. This severe reaction could cause a throbbing head pain nausea, vomiting, and a rapid heartbeat. MAOIs can also interact with other medications and can cause serious side effects, such as suicidal thoughts and behaviors.

Your doctor will discuss your dietary needs with you prior anxiety disorders effects to prescribing MAOIs. They will advise you against eating foods that contain tyramine when you are taking the medication. He or she will also provide a list of foods that are safe to eat while on MAOIs. This food guide will help you stay clear of MAOI-related side effects.