10 Unexpected Anxiety Disorder Medication Tips
Types of Anxiety Disorder Medication Medications are a great way to manage anxiety symptoms. Psychiatrists have extensive training in the use of medications and are able to write appropriate prescriptions that minimize the adverse effects. Typical anxiety disorder treatment is three-pronged and includes psychotherapy, exercise and medication. SSRIs, the first treatment for anxiety, can take up to several weeks to be effective. SSRIs SSRIs are the drugs of choice for the majority of anxiety disorders . The most recent SSRIs have better adverse effect profiles than tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) and monoamine oxide inhibitors (MAOIs). There are a variety of SSRIs have been approved by FDA to treat generalized anxiety disorder . This includes fluoxetine (aka Prozac), paraxetine, (aka Paxil), and sertraline (aka Zoloft), as along with citalopram (aka Celexa). These drugs can boost serotonin in the brain, and may also help to increase norepinephrine, or BDNF. They can be utilized in conjunction with psychotherapy, or by themselves. SSRIs may cause nausea and digestive issues, but these effects tend to diminish when the body is accustomed to the medication. The precise mechanism behind the SSRIs' effect on anxiety isn't well comprehended. It is believed that SSRIs inhibit serotonin reuptake in post-synaptic neuron and increase the concentration serotonin within the synaptic gaps. This enhances the signaling across the synapses, which in turn reduces anxiety symptoms. In addition to reducing anxiety, SSRIs may reduce the frequency and severity of panic attacks. They can also be used to treat depression as well as other mental conditions that are frequently associated with anxiety disorders. They can be utilized in combination with psychotherapy or other forms of cognitive behavior therapy, which can improve their effectiveness. Contrary to other classes of antidepressants, SSRIs are not believed to be addictive. It is still important to follow the doctor's instructions. If you suddenly stop taking your medication, it could result in “discontinuation” syndrome and anxiety symptoms to return. If SSRIs are not suitable for your needs, your doctor may try a different class of antidepressants, like mirtazapine or nefazodone. These medications are also very efficient, but they carry a higher risk of side effects than the newer SSRIs. SSRIs can interact with certain foods, including red meat, eggs dairy, certain fruits and vegetables. If you are taking these medications it is a wise idea to avoid these foods. Additionally it is generally advised that you avoid drinking alcohol while taking SSRIs since it can cause more severe adverse reactions. Benzodiazepines Benzodiazepines enhance the calming effects of certain chemicals found in the brain and nervous system. They enhance the effects of a neurotransmitter called Gamma-aminobutyric Acid (GABA) that inhibits the nerves' activity. These drugs can be effective in treating insomnia, anxiety and other psychological disorders. However they can also be addictive and should only be used for short durations under medical supervision. Benzos may be harmful when taken recreationally or in combination with other substances such as alcohol. When someone is suffering from anxiety disorders, they often turn to medication as their first choice. However, this is not the only option. Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy, has been proven to reduce anxiety-related symptoms. There are a variety of psychotherapies that can help, but the most popular and effective is cognitive behavior therapy (CBT). This kind of therapy teaches you to change your thoughts and behavior so that you are less stressed. The most popular benzodiazepines include alprazolam (Xanax) and chlordiazepoxide (Librium) diazepam (Valium), clorazepate (Tranxene) and lorazepam (Ativan), and Quazepam (Dalmane). Each one has its own list of side effects however, they all share similar pharmacological properties. For example, clorazepate is more effective in treating seizure disorders than the other benzodiazepines. Likewise, lorazepam is more effective for treating anxiety disorders than quazepam. Although benzodiazepines can be very efficient, they are not advised for long-term use due to the fact that they can lead to physical dependence and tolerance. They can also trigger withdrawal symptoms, such as an increase in heart rate shaking, sweating, and shaking if you abruptly stop taking the medication. The symptoms can be unpleasant and last for a few weeks. However they can be slowed down when you reduce the medication gradually. Benzodiazepines are extremely addictive and should be used only for a limited period of period of time. Most often, it is not more than four weeks. During this period, you'll have to be vigilant about your blood pressure and heart rate to ensure you don't suffer an extreme withdrawal reaction. If you're thinking about getting a prescription for benzodiazepine, speak with your doctor about your past history of using substances. Beta-blockers Beta-blockers are a type of medication that helps to alleviate anxiety symptoms. These medications stop 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 typically used to treat high blood pressure and other conditions of the cardiovascular system, but they can also be prescribed for off-label use for anxiety-related disorders. 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 with beta receptors in the brain and heart and causes your heart rate to increase and can trigger other physical reactions. Beta-blockers are class medications used to treat hypertension, and other heart-related conditions. They work by blocking adrenaline's binding. This assists in lowering the blood pressure and heart rate. Beta-blockers are quick to work, unlike SSRIs or benzodiazepines, which require weeks or even months to show an improvement in symptoms. They are an excellent option for those who need immediate relief from anxiety-related symptoms. For example, those who are required to deliver a public speech or fly in an airplane. They are also a good option for people with anxiety and chronic heart problems, such as atherosclerosis or congestive cardiac failure. Beta-blockers can help reduce physical symptoms of anxiety, but they don't address the underlying causes. They are only prescribed in conjunction with an extensive treatment plan that incorporates lifestyle modifications and counseling. They can be beneficial for those who have tried medication for anxiety and found it ineffective or had intolerable side effects. There are several different types of beta-blockers such as propranolol and atenolol. Your doctor will decide which beta-blocker is best for you according to your medical history and current health status. These medications can trigger side effects such as low blood pressure or fatigue. It is crucial to discuss the options for treatment with your doctor. MAOIs Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), created in the 1950s as an antidepressant, are effective for certain anxiety and depression disorders. However, they aren't commonly used as often as SSRIs or other antidepressants due the requirement for strict dietary restrictions and the risk of interactions with other drugs. Some MAOIs are taken by mouth in tablet form, while others (such as Emsam) come in the form of a transdermal patch that's applied to the skin each day. MAOIs block the action of MAO, thereby increasing the amount of serotonin and norepinephrine within the brain. These neurotransmitters play an important role in sleep, mood and appetite as also in sexual function. MAOIs also have anti-anxiety properties. They are more likely than TCAs or SSRIs to trigger side effects and come with warnings regarding suicide. Your doctor may prescribe additional medicines or treatments to manage your symptoms in addition to the MAOIs listed below. A beta-blocker, such as propranolol is frequently prescribed to alleviate the physical symptoms associated with anxiety. Your doctor might also suggest a relaxation method or other treatments at home to ease your anxiety symptoms. The original MAOI, Iproniazid, was discovered during research into tuberculosis in 1952. It was soon found to have properties that boost mood and is regarded as the first antidepressant medication. MAOIs should be used only after other antidepressants are not working, as they can trigger serious side-effects that require immediate medical attention. If you use an MAOI and consume foods that contain Tyramine, a chemical found in many red meats, cheeses shellfish, fish, as well as certain dietary supplements, it can trigger a dangerous reaction that results in high blood pressure. This serious reaction can result in a throbbing head pain nausea, vomiting, and a rapid heartbeat. MAOIs can also interact with other medications and trigger serious adverse effects, including suicidal thoughts and behavior. Before prescribing MAOIs, your doctor will talk with you about the foods you need to avoid. The doctor will advise you to avoid eating any food items that contain tyramine when you are taking the drug. He or she will also provide an inventory of food that are safe to eat when taking MAOIs. Using this food guide can help you avoid MAOI-related side effects.