It's Time To Expand Your Anxiety Disorder Medication Options
Types of Anxiety Disorder Medication The use of medications is a fantastic way to manage anxiety symptoms. Psychologists are trained in the prescription and use of medications. They can prescribe the correct medication to minimize the adverse effects. Treatment for anxiety disorders is usually three-pronged, which includes therapy, medication and exercise. SSRIs are the first choice for treating anxiety, but they may take a few weeks for them to take effect. SSRIs Most anxiety disorders are treated with SSRIs. 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 have been approved by FDA to treat generalized anxiety disorder. These include fluoxetine (aka Prozac), paraxetine, (aka Paxil), and sertraline (aka Zoloft), as and citalopram (aka Celexa). These drugs can boost serotonin in the brain and may also help to boost norepinephrine or BDNF. They can be used alone or in conjunction 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 is not fully understood. It is believed that SSRIs inhibit serotonin reuptake in post-synaptic neuron and increase the amount of serotonin in the synaptic gaps. This increases the amount of signals that cross the synapse, which consequently reduces anxiety symptoms. SSRIs can decrease anxiety and the intensity of panic attacks. They can also be employed to treat depression and other mental conditions which are often linked to anxiety disorders. They can be used with cognitive behavior therapy or psychotherapy to increase their effectiveness. SSRIs aren't addictive unlike some other antidepressants. Nevertheless, it is important to follow your doctor's instructions exactly. If you discontinue your medication suddenly and suddenly, it can trigger “discontinuation syndrome” and a recurrence of anxiety symptoms. If SSRIs are not suitable for you, your doctor could look into a different kind of antidepressants, like nefazodone or mirtazapine. These drugs may also be effective, however they are more at risk of adverse side effects than the more recent SSRIs. SSRIs may interact with certain foods such as dairy products, eggs, red meat and some fruits and veggies. If you are taking these medications it is a good suggestion to avoid these food items. Additionally, it is generally recommended that you do not drink alcohol while taking SSRIs because this can make it more difficult to deal with certain adverse effects. Benzodiazepines Benzodiazepines enhance the calming effects of certain chemicals found in the nervous system and brain. They work by increasing the effects of the neurotransmitter, gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) which is a substance that inhibits nerve activity. disorders anxiety are effective in treating insomnia, anxiety and other psychological disorders. However they can be addictive and should only be used for brief durations of time under medical supervision. Benzos are dangerous when used for recreational purposes or mixed with other substances, including alcohol. When someone is suffering from anxiety disorders, they typically look to medication as the first option. However this isn't the only option. Psychotherapy, or talk therapy, has been shown to help reduce anxiety symptoms. There are many different psychotherapies, but cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is the most popular and effective. This kind of therapy helps you to change your thinking and behavior in order to feel less anxious. Alprazolam and chlordiazepoxide as well as diazep, clorazepate and quazepam are among the most common benzodiazepines. They all have similar chemical properties, however each has its own distinct side effects and pharmacological profile. Clorazepate for instance is more effective in treating seizure disorders compared to other benzodiazepines. Lorazepam, on the contrary, is more effective in treating anxiety disorders as compared to the quazepam. While benzodiazepines are effective, they are not recommended for long-term use because they can lead to physical dependence and tolerance. They can also trigger withdrawal symptoms, like a pounding of the heart, sweating, and shaking, if you suddenly stop taking the medication. Symptoms can be very unpleasant and can last for several weeks, but they can be slowed down by slowly tapering off the medication. Benzodiazepines can be extremely addictive and should only be used for a short time, usually not more than 4 weeks. During this time, you will have to be vigilant about your blood pressure and heart rate to ensure that you don't suffer an extreme withdrawal reaction. If you're thinking of getting a prescription for benzodiazepine, consult your physician about your history of substance abuse. Beta-blockers Beta-blockers are used to treat anxiety symptoms. These drugs block adrenaline from binding to beta receptors in your nervous system, which stops the hormone from triggering physical reactions like heart tremors and heart palpitations. These medications are typically used to treat high blood pressure and other conditions of the cardiovascular system however they can be prescribed off-label in cases of anxiety. If you are stressed, your body releases a chemical called Adrenaline. This chemical signals the body to prepare itself to fight or flee. Adrenaline is a binder to beta receptors in the heart and brain and causes your heart rate to increase and can trigger other physical reactions. Beta-blockers are a class medication used to treat hypertension, and other heart-related conditions. They are able to block adrenaline's binding. This can help lower your heart rate and blood pressure. In contrast to SSRIs and benzodiazepines, which require a long time to make a noticeable difference in your symptoms, beta-blockers are fast-acting. This makes them an excellent option for people who need immediate relief from their anxiety symptoms, such as those who have to give speeches in public or fly on an airplane. They are also a good option for those suffering from anxiety and chronic heart conditions such as atherosclerosis and congestive cardiac failure. Beta-blockers can reduce the physical symptoms of anxiety, but they don't address the underlying causes. They are only prescribed as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that incorporates lifestyle changes and counseling. They can be beneficial for those who have tried medication for anxiety and found it ineffective or caused unacceptable side effects. There are several different types of beta-blockers, such as propranolol and atenolol. Your doctor will determine which one is right for you depending on your medical history and overall health. These medications can trigger side effects such as fatigue or low blood pressure. It is important to discuss your options with your physician. MAOIs In the 1950s, monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) are effective antidepressants for some anxiety and depression. They are not as commonly utilized as SSRIs or other antidepressants because of the strict dietary restrictions needed and the potential for drug interactions. Certain MAOIs are available in tablet form and can be taken orally, whereas others (such Emsam) are applied as a transdermal skin patch. MAOIs block the action of MAO and increase the amount of norepinephrine as well as serotonin in the brain. These neurotransmitters are involved in sleep, mood, appetite, and sexual function. MAOIs have an anti-anxiety effect. However, they are more likely to trigger side effects than TCAs and SSRIs and come with warnings in boxes for suicide. In addition to the MAOIs mentioned below, your doctor may prescribe other medications or treatments that can help manage your symptoms. For instance, a beta blocker (such as propranolol) is often prescribed to relieve the physical symptoms of anxiety. Your doctor may suggest relaxation techniques, or other home treatments to ease your symptoms. Iproniazid was the first MAOI discovered in 1952 while conducting research on tuberculosis. It was quickly discovered to be a mood-enhancing drug and is regarded as the first antidepressant drug. MAOIs should only be taken when other antidepressants have failed, because they can cause serious side-effects that require immediate medical attention. If you use an MAOI and consume foods containing Tyramine, a chemical found that is found in many red meats, cheeses shellfish, fish, and certain dietary supplements, it can trigger a dangerous reaction that results in high blood pressure. This severe reaction could cause an intense headache, nausea, vomiting and a fast heartbeat. MAOIs may also interact with other medications and trigger severe side effects, such as suicidal thoughts, behaviors, and even suicidal thoughts. Before prescribing MAOIs to you, your doctor will discuss with you the foods you need to avoid. They will advise you to avoid eating foods that contain tyramine if you are you are taking the medication. He or she will also provide a list of food items that are safe to eat while on MAOIs. This food guide can help you stay clear of MAOI-related side effects.