(Image: https://www.iampsychiatry.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/human-givens-institute-logo.png)Types of Anxiety Disorder Medication

Medications can be a valuable tool for managing anxiety symptoms. Psychologists are trained in the use and prescription of medications. They can prescribe the right medication to minimize side effects.

Treatment for anxiety disorders is usually three-pronged: therapy, medication and exercise. SSRIs are the most popular treatment for anxiety can take several weeks to be effective.

SSRIs

Most anxiety disorders can be treated with SSRIs. Newer SSRIs have better adverse effect profiles than tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) and monoamine oxide inhibitors (MAOIs). 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 medications boost serotonin levels in the brain and may also aid in the increase of norepinephrine as well as BDNF. They are able to be used in combination with psychotherapy or on their own. SSRIs may cause negative effects, such as nausea and digestive problems, but these usually improve as the body gets used to the medication.

The precise mechanism of the action of SSRIs on anxiety is not well known. However it is believed that they inhibit the reuptake of serotonin from the post-synaptic neurons and increase the amount of serotonin in the synaptic gap. This increases the amount of signaling that occurs across the synapse, which in turn decreases anxiety symptoms.

SSRIs can help reduce anxiety and the intensity of panic attacks. They can also be employed to treat depression and other mental conditions that are frequently associated with anxiety disorders. They can be used with cognitive behavior therapy or psychotherapy to enhance their effectiveness.

In contrast to other classes of antidepressants, SSRIs don't appear to be addictive. However, it is crucial to follow the prescriptions of your doctor exactly. If you discontinue your medication suddenly it could trigger ”discontinuation syndrome” and a return of anxiety-related symptoms.

If SSRIs aren't for you, your doctor could consider a different type of antidepressants, such as mirtazapine or nefazodone. These medications are also very effective, but have a higher risk of adverse effects than the more recent SSRIs.

SSRIs can interact with certain foods, like eggs, red meat, dairy, and some fruits and vegetables. It is best to avoid these foods if you're taking these medications. In addition, it is generally recommended that you do not drink alcohol while taking SSRIs as it may make it more difficult to deal with certain side effects.

Benzodiazepines

Benzodiazepines enhance the calming effects of certain chemicals in the brain and nervous system. They work by increasing the effects of the neurotransmitter, gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) which is a substance that suppresses nerve activity. These drugs are effective in treating anxiety disorders, insomnia and various psychological disorders. However they can be addictive and should only be used for brief periods of time under medical supervision. Benzos may be harmful when used for recreational purposes or in combination with other substances, including alcohol.

When people have anxiety disorders, they typically look to medication as the first option. However, this is not the only option. Talk therapy or psychotherapy is also proven to be an effective method to decrease anxiety disorder symptoms. There are many psychotherapies that can aid and improve your life, but the most well-known and effective is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). This type of psychotherapy can teach you how to alter your thinking and behavior so that you don't feel anxious as much.

The most popular benzodiazepines include alprazolam (Xanax) and chlordiazepoxide (Librium) diazepam (Valium) Clorazepate (Tranxene) and the lorazepam (Ativan) and the quazepam (Dalmane). They all share the same pharmacological properties, but each has its own distinct side effects characteristic. Clorazepate, for example is more effective at treating seizures compared to other benzodiazepines. Lorazepam on the contrary, is more effective in treating anxiety disorders as in comparison to Quazepam.

Benzodiazepines are extremely effective, but they are not recommended for long-term use since they can lead to tolerance and physical dependence. In addition, they may cause withdrawal symptoms when you stop taking them suddenly for a short period of time, such as sweating, a heart beating and shaking. The symptoms can be uncomfortable and last for a few weeks. However, they can be minimized by reducing the medication gradually.

Benzodiazepines are highly addictive and should be taken only for a limited period of duration. Most often, it is not more than four weeks. You must monitor your heart rate, blood pressure and your breathing during this period to ensure that you don't have a severe reaction. Talk to your doctor if you are considering a drug called benzodiazepine.

Beta-blockers

Beta-blockers are an type of medication that can help to alleviate anxiety disorders meaning symptoms. These medications prevent adrenaline from binding with beta receptors in the nervous system. This is a way to stop the hormone from triggering physical reactions like heart tremors or palpitations. These drugs for anxiety disorder are typically prescribed to treat high blood-pressure and other cardiovascular conditions. However, they can be prescribed off-label to treat anxiety.

When you are anxious, your body produces a chemical called adrenaline, which signals the body to prepare for fight or flight. Adrenaline binds beta receptors found in the brain and the heart which causes your heart to beat faster and causing other physical reactions. Beta-blockers are class medications that treat hypertension and other heart-related conditions. They work by blocking adrenaline's binding action. This helps to lower the blood pressure and heart rate.

Contrary to SSRIs and benzodiazepines that require a long time to make a noticeable difference in your symptoms, beta-blockers work quickly. This makes them a good option for people who need immediate relief from their anxiety symptoms for instance, those who need to deliver a speech in public or take an airplane. They are also ideal for those who suffer from anxiety and an ongoing heart condition like atherosclerosis or congestive cardiac failure.

Although beta-blockers are effective at decreasing physical symptoms of anxiety, they fail to address the underlying cause of the disorder. As a result, they are usually prescribed as a part of a comprehensive treatment program that includes counseling and lifestyle changes. They are beneficial for those who have tried anti-anxiety medication and found it ineffective or had unpalatable side effects.

Propranolol, atenolol, and other beta-blockers are available. Your doctor will determine which beta-blocker is right for you, based on your medical background and current health condition. These medications can cause side effects such as fatigue or low blood pressure. It is essential to discuss treatment options with your physician.

MAOIs

Monoamine oxide inhibitors (MAOIs) which were first created in the 1950s as an antidepressant, have proven to be effective for certain anxiety and depression disorders. They aren't as widely used as SSRIs and other antidepressants due the strict dietary restrictions needed as well as the risk of interactions with other drugs. Some MAOIs are taken orally in tablet form, while others (such as Emsam) come in the form of a transdermal patch that's applied to the skin every day.

MAOIs block the actions of MAO and increase the amount of norepinephrine and serotonin in the brain. These neurotransmitters play a role in sleep, mood and appetite as in sexual function as well. MAOIs also have anti-anxiety effects. They are more likely than TCAs or SSRIs to trigger side effects and come with warnings about suicide.

Your doctor may prescribe additional medications or treatments for anxiety disorders to manage your symptoms in addition to the MAOIs below. For instance, a beta blocker (such as propranolol) is usually prescribed to alleviate physical symptoms of anxiety. Your doctor may recommend a relaxation method or other home remedies to ease your symptoms.

The original MAOI, Iproniazid, was discovered during research into tuberculosis in 1952. It was quickly discovered to possess mood-enhancing properties and is regarded as the first antidepressant medication. MAOIs should be used only in cases where other antidepressants are not working, since they can cause serious side effects that require immediate medical attention.

If you use an MAOI and consume foods that contain the chemical tyramine that is found in a variety of red meats, cheeses fish, shellfish, and some dietary supplements, it could trigger an unintentional reaction that results in high blood pressure. This serious reaction can result in a throbbing head pain nausea, vomiting, and a fast heartbeat. MAOIs may also interact with other medications and cause severe side effects like suicidal thoughts or behavior.

(Image: https://www.iampsychiatry.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/i-want-great-care-logo.png)Before prescribing MAOIs, your physician will discuss with you what foods to avoid. 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 food items that are safe to eat while on MAOIs. This food guide will help you stay clear of MAOI-related side effects.