Types of Anxiety Disorder Medication

Medicines can be a useful tool for managing anxiety disorder yoga symptoms. Psychiatrists are trained extensively in the use of medications and are able to make appropriate prescriptions that minimize the adverse effects.

Typical anxiety disorder treatment is three-pronged and consists of therapy, exercise and medication. SSRIs are the first-choice medications to treat anxiety, however they can take several weeks for them to take effect.

SSRIs

The majority of anxiety disorders are treated with SSRIs. The newer SSRIs are less likely to cause adverse effects than older tricyclics and monoamine oxide inhibitors (MAOIs) or tricyclic antidepressants. A variety of SSRIs have been approved by the FDA to treat generalized anxiety disorder brain 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 increase norepinephrine, or BDNF. They can be used in conjunction with psychotherapy or alone. SSRIs may cause nausea and digestive problems, but these side effects typically subside as the body becomes accustomed to the medication.

The precise mechanism behind how SSRIs help with anxiety isn't fully understood. It is believed that SSRIs hinder serotonin reuptake by post-synaptic neurons and increase the amount of serotonin in the synaptic gaps. This enhances the signaling across the synapses, which reduces anxiety symptoms.

SSRIs can decrease anxiety and the intensity of panic attacks. They can also be employed to treat depression and other mental illnesses which are often linked to anxiety disorders. They are often used in conjunction with psychotherapy and other forms of cognitive behavior therapy, which can increase their effectiveness.

SSRIs are not addictive, unlike other antidepressants. It is still essential to follow your prescriptions of your doctor. If you discontinue your medication suddenly it could trigger "discontinuation syndrome" and a return of anxiety symptoms.

If SSRIs aren't suitable for your needs, your doctor may try a different class of antidepressants, such as mirtazapine or nefazodone. These drugs may also be effective, but they are more at risk of adverse effects than the more recent SSRIs.

SSRIs can interact with certain food items such as dairy products, eggs, red meat and certain fruits and vegetables. If you are taking these drugs it is a good idea to avoid these foods. It is also recommended to stay clear of drinking alcohol while taking SSRIs since it may cause a number of side effects.

Benzodiazepines

Benzodiazepines boost the calming effect of certain chemicals found in the nervous system and brain. They work by increasing the effects of the neurotransmitter gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA), a substance that inhibits nerve 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 are dangerous when taken for recreational purposes, or mixed anxiety depressive disorder with alcohol and other substances.

If someone suffers from anxiety disorders, they typically look to medication as the first option. However this isn't the only option. Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy, has been proven to help decrease the symptoms of anxiety disorder. There are a variety of psychotherapies that can help, but the most popular and effective one 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.

The most popular benzodiazepines include alprazolam (Xanax), chlordiazepoxide (Librium) diazepam (Valium) Clorazepate (Tranxene) as well as lorazepam (Ativan) and the quazepam (Dalmane). They all have similar pharmacological properties, but each has its own distinct side effect characteristic. Clorazepate for instance, is more effective in treating seizures compared to other benzodiazepines. Lorazepam, on other hand, is superior in treating anxiety disorders when compared to Quazepam.

Although benzodiazepines may be efficient, they aren't advised for long-term use due to the fact that they can lead to physical dependence and tolerance. They can also cause withdrawal symptoms, like an increase in heart rate as well as sweating and shaking if you abruptly stop taking them. Symptoms can be very unpleasant and can last for several weeks, but they can be slowed down by slowly reducing the medication.

Benzodiazepines can be extremely addictive and should be used only for a brief period of time, usually not more than 4 weeks. You will need to monitor your blood pressure, heart rate and breathing closely during this period to ensure you don't suffer an extremely severe reaction. If you're considering getting a benzodiazepine prescription, consult your physician about your history of substance abuse.

Beta-blockers

Beta-blockers are an type of medication that is used to alleviate anxiety symptoms of anxiety disorders. These drugs block adrenaline from binding to beta receptors in your nervous system, preventing the hormone from triggering physical responses like heart palpitations and tremors. These drugs are commonly used to treat high blood pressure and other cardiovascular conditions, but they can also be prescribed for off-label use for anxiety-related disorders.

When you are anxious your body produces a chemical known as adrenaline, which signals the body to prepare for fight or flight. Adrenaline binds beta receptors in the brain and the heart which causes your heart to beat more quickly and causing other physical reactions. Beta-blockers are class medications that treat hypertension and other heart conditions. They are able to block adrenaline's binding actions. This can help lower your blood pressure and heart rate.

Unlike SSRIs and benzodiazepines that take a few weeks or months to show a significant improvement in your symptoms, beta-blockers are fast-acting. This makes them an excellent choice for those who require immediate relief from their anxiety like those who must give an address in public or take a plane. They also make a great option for those suffering from anxiety and chronic heart problems such as atherosclerosis and congestive heart failure.

Although beta-blockers are effective in alleviating physical symptoms of anxiety, they do not address the underlying cause of the condition. This is why they are typically prescribed as a part of an overall treatment program that includes counseling and lifestyle changes. However, they can be a useful option for people who have tried other anti-anxiety drugs but haven't found them to be effective or to have intolerable side effects.

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

MAOIs

In the 1950s, monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) are effective antidepressants for a variety of depression and anxiety disorders. However, they aren't commonly used as often as SSRIs or other antidepressants due the need for strict dietary restrictions and the risk of drug interactions. Certain MAOIs are available in tablet form and can be taken orally, while others (such Emsam) are applied as a transdermal patch for skin.

MAOIs block the action of MAO and increase the amount of serotonin as well as norepinephrine in the brain. These neurotransmitters are involved in mood, sleep appetite, sexual function. MAOIs also have effects on anxiety. However, they are more likely to cause side effects than TCAs and SSRIs and come with warnings in boxes for suicide.

In addition to the MAOIs listed below, your doctor may prescribe additional treatments or medications that could help manage your symptoms. For instance, a beta blocker (such as propranolol) is often prescribed to alleviate physical symptoms of anxiety. Your doctor might also suggest a relaxation method or other treatments at home to ease your symptoms.

Iproniazid was the first MAOI discovered in 1952 during research on tuberculosis. It was soon discovered to be a mood-enhancing drug and is considered the original antidepressant medication. Typically, MAOIs can only be used when other antidepressants don't work, since they can cause serious side effects that require immediate medical attention.

It could cause a risky reaction that can result in high blood pressure when you take an MAOI when you eat foods that contain tyramine. Tyramine is present in many red meats and cheeses as well as in fish, shellfish and some dietary supplement. This severe reaction could cause headache pain that is throbbing nausea, vomiting, and a rapid heartbeat. MAOIs can also interact with other drugs and cause severe side effects, like suicidal thoughts and behavior.

Before prescribing MAOIs, your doctor will talk with you about the foods you should avoid. He or she will advise you to avoid eating foods that contain tyramine while taking the drug. They will also provide a list of food that are safe to eat when taking MAOIs. This food guide can help you avoid MAOI-related side effects.