Medications to Treat Anxiety
Therapy is the most effective treatment for anxiety, there are times when an infrequent course of medication is required. treatments for anxiety and tranquilizers are two of the medications that can be utilized to treat anxiety.
SSRI antidepressants such as citalopram, sertraline, and escitalopram are able to reduce anxiety. SNRIs, that target serotonin and norepinephrine, can also be effective.
SSRIs
SSRIs are typically the first medication prescribed by doctors to treat anxiety disorders. They stop nerve cells from re-absorption of serotonin in the brain, a chemical which is essential for regulating mood. It takes some time for the medication to be effective but most people start to feel better after 4 to six weeks. SSRIs are non-habit-forming and do not cause addiction, which means they can be used for extended periods of time.
Another type of antidepressant, SNRIs (serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors), also treats depression and anxiety. Examples of SNRIs include citalopram (Celexa), escitalopram (Lexapro) and fluoxetine (Prozac), paroxetine (Paxil) and sertraline (Zoloft). Tricyclic antidepressants like imipramine (Tofranil), doxepine, and an anxiety Disorder stimulant are also used to treat depression and anxiety. Mirtazapine, an antidepressant that is novel, is sometimes used to treat anxiety disorders.
Doctors aren't sure exactly how SSRIs and SNRIs function however they do know that they enhance activity of certain chemical messengers in the brain, known as neurotransmitters. They prevent the brain from reabsorbing these chemicals and allow them to bind to 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 aid in the bulimia nervosa disorder and binge eating disorder, but it is less common.
Atypical antipsychotic drugs may be prescribed to patients with anxiety who do not respond to SSRIs. Examples include quetiapine, (Abilify) and aripiprazole (Risperdal). These medications ease anxiety for people suffering from obsessive compulsive disorders. They are usually prescribed in conjunction with an antidepressant. they are less prone for serious side effects when compared to other types of antipsychotics.
Beta-blockers are also prescribed to treat anxiety and heart problems. Examples are propranolol (Inderal) and atenolol (Tenormin). They can reduce physical symptoms of anxiety in those who suffer from social anxiety disorder. They can be helpful in reducing anxiety, particularly before or after surgery. The benzodiazepines, including lorazepam or Ativan (Ativan), can be used in situations where other medications do not work. However, benzodiazepines are habit-forming and can lead to addiction.
SNRIs
SNRIs are a kind of antidepressant medication that is often prescribed to combat anxiety. They function similarly to SSRIs but they also enhance the supply of serotonin and norepinephrine within the brain. They are therefore more effective in treating specific anxiety disorders such as anxiety disorder, social anxiety and panic disorder. Similar to other medications, they are most effective when used in conjunction with therapy for talk and other treatment strategies.
Contrary to benzodiazepines, SNRIs aren't a dependence or addiction for most people. Some patients might experience withdrawal symptoms after stopping a medication after an extended period of usage. It is crucial to talk with your physician prior to discontinuing any medication.
Serotonin and norepinephrine are neurotransmitters responsible for mood and stress responses. They play a significant part in the fight or flight response that a large portion of people suffering from anxiety experience. By blocking the reuptake process, SNRIs prevent nerve cells from rapidly absorbing these neurotransmitters. This way they hold these chemicals in the brain longer and as a result, they have the potential to improve mood and reduce anxiety and assist in the relief of symptoms of panic attacks.
Norepinephrine also plays a part in anxiety, as it activates the Amygdala. This is a very deep and primitive brain region that is associated with anxiety-related behavior. SNRIs can reduce activity in this part of the brain. This can boost mood, anxiety, and even alleviate panic attacks.
Although these drugs can be very beneficial, it is important to keep in mind that they can have the potential of causing increased suicidal thoughts in some individuals. Due to this, they are typically prescribed at higher doses and for a short period of time. In addition, these medications can interact with several other drugs and other substances. It is important to inform your doctor if you are taking any other prescriptions, or over-the generic medications. Also, keep them informed of any medical conditions that may be underlying like heart issues and bleeding disorders. Be aware that some patients report adverse reactions to SNRIs such as dry mouth and nausea.
Benzodiazepines
Benzos, also known as benzodiazepines, as they're often called -- are medications that act quickly that help reduce anxiety and anxiety-related symptoms like insomnia and muscle tension. They are useful in some people with anxiety disorders, including social anxiety and panic disorder particularly if other treatments, such as SSRIs or psychotherapy (talk therapy) aren't working. They are also a good short-term solution, such as while you are waiting for an antidepressant to begin working. Medications such as diazepam (Valium) and lorazepam (Ativan) are the most popular benzos, although other options include clonazepam (Rivotril) and temazepam (Restoril) and flurazepam (Dalmane).
They usually start working within 30 minutes due to the fact that they are rapid-acting. They don't remain in the body for very long, which is why they must be taken on a regular basis to reap the full benefits. Benzos should not be used for prolonged periods of time as they can trigger physical dependence and addiction. Benzos should not be taken by people with depression or anxiety disorders as they could increase the risk.
Benzo users who take them for an extended period of time without medical supervision, and often without the advice of a physician, may develop a condition called sedative-use disorders, which includes withdrawal symptoms and addiction. This problem is rare in people who take benzos according to prescription. Instead, the misuse of benzos is usually the result of other causes like alcohol abuse or depression.
Tolerance to benzodiazepines can also develop when they are taken for a long time. Tolerance means that you require more medication to get the same effects. In certain cases this could lead to respiratory depression, coma, and death. Even if you're taking benzodiazepines for a long period of time, it is essential to adhere to the prescription.
Other Medications
SSRIs and SNRIs are the primary medications doctors typically prescribe for anxiety. They affect serotonin which is responsible for mood, sleep, appetite and appetite. They may take a long time to begin effect, ranging from to 12 weeks, and may cause some side effects like nausea or insomnia. SSRIs are also used to treat mental health disorders such as depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder and panic disorder. In contrast to benzodiazepines they don't create physical dependence, but they can trigger withdrawal symptoms if abruptly discontinued.
Medications in this class include sertraline (Zoloft) and the fluoxetine (Prozac) and citalopram (Celexa). They can be used alone or in combination with therapy. Antidepressants are prescribed by psychologists, psychiatrists or family doctors with specialized expertise in the field of medication management.
Doctors can prescribe a class called monoamine-oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) as an antidepressant. They block the actions of enzymes that break chemicals down, including dopamine, serotonin and norepinephrine. MAOIs can take up to four weeks to begin working however, they aren't as quick-acting as SSRIs.
Another medication that can help manage anxiety is clonidine. It is used to manage high blood pressure but has limited use in treating anxiety. Its effectiveness is limited by side effects such as hypotension and sedation. Doctors can also prescribe antihistamines, such as hydroxyzine, to reduce symptoms of panic attacks and anxiety. Some patients may also experience a decrease in the effectiveness of benzodiazepines.
The treatment for anxiety is usually the combination of medication, psychotherapy and exercise. A therapist who is specialized in treating anxiety disorders is the most effective method to treat anxiety. They can help you identify the root causes of your anxiety, and suggest ways to manage it without medication if necessary. Other options for anxiety treatment that don't require medication include eye movement desensitization, mindfulness meditation, and Yoga that is trauma-informed. Talk with your therapist about what options are most suitable for you. Psychologists are trained to assess your medical history and symptoms and create a treatment plan that is suited to you. When preparing the plan, they consider your lifestyle, diagnosis, medical background, and preferences. They can also make adjustments over time.