Medications to Treat Anxiety
Although therapy is the best treatment for anxiety, there are times when an infrequent course of medication is required. Antidepressants and tranquilizers are two of the medications that can be used to combat anxiety.
SSRI antidepressants, such as citalopram (Celexa), the escitalopram (Lexapro) and sertraline (Zoloft), improve communication between nerve cells in the brain, and may reduce anxiety. SNRIs, which target the chemicals serotonin and norepinephrine can also be effective.
SSRIs
SSRIs are the first line of medication doctors prescribe to treat anxiety disorders. They block nerve cell re-absorption of serotonin in the brain, a chemical that is important for mood regulation. It takes time for the medications to be effective however, people typically start feeling better after 4 to six weeks. SSRIs do not form an addiction and are not addictive, so they can be used for a long time.
Another type of antidepressant, SNRIs (serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors), also treats depression and anxiety. Examples of SNRIs are citalopram (Celexa) as well as the escitalopram (Lexapro) and fluoxetine (Prozac) and paroxetine (Paxil) and sertraline (Zoloft). Tricyclic antidepressants, such as imipramine (Tofranil) and doxepine (Anxiety Disorder Stimulant) also treat anxiety and depression. Mirtazapine is a new antidepressant is sometimes used to treat anxiety disorders.
Doctors don't know exactly how SSRIs and SNRIs function however they do know that they boost activity of certain chemical messengers within the brain, known as neurotransmitters. They prevent the brain from absorbing these chemicals and allow them to bind with their receptors.
SSRIs are used to treat generalized anxiety disorder, GAD; obsessive-compulsive disorder, OCD; panic disorder/agoraphobia; and posttraumatic stress disorder, PTSD. They can also be helpful with bulimia, however it is not as common.
Atypical antipsychotic medications can be prescribed to those suffering from anxiety who do not respond to SSRIs. Examples include quetiapine (Abilify) and Aripiprazole (Risperdal). These medications reduce anxiety in people with obsessive-compulsive disorders. They are often given together with an antidepressant. they are less likely for serious side effects when compared to other types of antipsychotics.
Beta-blockers can also be prescribed to treat anxiety, and heart conditions. Examples are propranolol (Inderal) and atenolol (Tenormin). They can ease physical symptoms of anxiety in people who suffer from social anxiety disorder. They can also aid in reducing anxiety prior to or after surgery, and for certain chronic pain issues. Benzodiazepines, like lorazepam or Ativan (Ativan) are able to be used in situations where other medications don't work. However, benzodiazepines create a habit and can lead to addiction.
SNRIs
SNRIs are a kind of antidepressant medication that is typically prescribed to treat anxiety. They function similarly to SSRIs but they also enhance the supply of serotonin and norepinephrine within the brain. In turn, they are usually more effective in treating specific types of anxiety disorders, such as social anxiety disorder and panic disorder. Like other medications, these are most effective when they are used in conjunction with therapy for talk and other treatment strategies.
Contrary to benzodiazepines, SNRIs do not create dependence or addiction in most people. However, some patients might feel withdrawal symptoms when stopping the medication after a long duration of use. This is why it is crucial to talk with your physician prior to stopping any medication.
Neurotransmitters such as serotonin and norepinephrine control mood and stress. Particularly, they play a key role in the fight-or-flight response that a large portion of people suffering from anxiety experience. SNRIs stop nerve cells from rapidly soaking up these neurotransmitters by blocking the process of reuptake. They keep these chemicals in the body for longer periods of time and can boost mood, decrease anxiety, and even ease anxiety attacks.
Norepinephrine also plays a part in anxiety as it activates the Amygdala. It is a nebulous and primitive brain region that is associated with fearful behavior. SNRIs decrease the activity in this part of the brain. This can boost mood, anxiety and alleviate panic attacks.
Although these drugs can be extremely beneficial but it is important to note that they come with a risk of increasing suicidal thoughts in some individuals. Because of this, they are typically prescribed in higher doses for a short-term time. In addition, these medicines may interact with other medications and substances. If you are on any other prescription or over-the counter medication, make sure to discuss this with your doctor and keep them informed of any underlying medical conditions you suffer from including heart problems and bleeding-related diseases. Be aware that some patients report adverse reactions to SNRIs such as dry mouth and nausea.
Benzodiazepines
Benzos, also known as benzodiazepines commonly referred to as -- are medications that act quickly that reduce anxiety and anxiety-related symptoms like muscle tension and insomnia. They are useful in some patients suffering from anxiety disorders, such as panic disorder and social anxiety particularly when other treatments, such as SSRIs or psychotherapy (talk therapy), don't work. They can be utilized as a temporary solution as you wait for your antidepressant medication to take effect. The Benzos include diazepam and lorazepam flurazepam, temazepam, and.
Because they're fast-acting, they typically begin working within 30 minutes. They don't last for very long in the body, therefore it is essential to take them regularly to reap the benefits. Benzos should not be used for prolonged periods of time as they can cause physical dependence and addiction. Benzos are not recommended by people suffering from anxiety or depression disorders since they may increase the risk.
Benzo users who use them for a long period of time, often without medical supervision, can develop a condition called sedative-use disorder, which includes withdrawal symptoms and addiction. It is rare for people who are prescribed benzos to develop this condition however. Benzo abuse is usually the result of other factors such as alcohol abuse and depression.
Taking benzodiazepines for the long-term may also lead to tolerance to their effects of sedation. When you become tolerant to the effects, you require more of the medication to produce the same effect. In certain cases this could lead to respiratory depression, coma and death. It is crucial to take benzodiazepines in the prescribed dosage and on a regular basis.
Other Medications
SSRIs and SNRIs will be the primary medications that doctors prescribe to treat anxiety. They affect serotonin which affects mood sleep, appetite, and appetite. They can take up to 12 weeks before they begin to work and can cause negative effects like insomnia or nausea. SSRIs can also be used to treat mental disorders like panic disorder, depression, and obsessive compulsive disorder. Contrary to benzodiazepines, antidepressants do not cause physical dependence. However, they could cause withdrawal symptoms if abruptly stopped.
Sertraline (Zoloft), Prozac (Prozac), and Celexa (Citalopram) are the three medications that fall under this class. They can be used as a single drug or in conjunction with therapy. Antidepressants are prescribed by psychologists, psychiatrists or family physicians who have specialized training in medication management.
Doctors can prescribe a particular class of antidepressants called monoamine oxidase inhibitors, or MAOIs. These medications block the action of certain enzymes that break down chemicals like serotonin and norepinephrine, and dopamine. MAOIs can take as long as four weeks to start working, but they are not as quick-acting as SSRIs.
Another medication used to treat anxiety is clonidine, which is used to lower high blood pressure but has limited use in treating anxiety. natural anxiety treatments is limited due to adverse effects like hypotension and sedation. Doctors may prescribe antihistamines, such as hydroxyzine, to help reduce the symptoms of panic attacks and anxiety. Certain patients might also experience a reduction in the effectiveness of benzodiazepines.
Anxiety is usually treated using a combination of psychotherapy, exercise and medication. Working with a therapist that has a specialization in anxiety disorders is the most effective method to manage anxiety. They can help you determine the underlying causes for anxiety and recommend strategies to manage it without medication, if needed. Other options for anxiety treatment that don't require medication include eye movement desensitization mindfulness meditation, and trauma-informed Yoga. Speak to your therapist to determine the best options for you. Psychiatrists have the training to assess your medical history, symptoms, and develop an appropriate treatment plan for anxiety that is suitable for you. When preparing the plan, they will take into account your medical diagnosis, lifestyle as well as your medical background and preferences. They may also make adjustments as time passes.