15 Things You've Never Known About Meds To Treat Anxiety
Medications to Treat Anxiety Therapy is the most effective treatment for anxiety, there are times when an infrequent course of medication is necessary. Antidepressants and tranquilizers are among the drugs that can be used to combat anxiety. SSRI antidepressants, like citalopram (Celexa), escitalopram (Lexapro) and sertraline (Zoloft) can improve communication between nerve cells within the brain and reduce anxiety. SNRIs, that target serotonin and norepinephrine are also effective. SSRIs SSRIs are often the first prescription medication recommended by doctors to treat anxiety disorders. They stop the brain's nerve cells from absorbing serotonin, a chemical that plays a crucial role in regulating mood. The medications take a while to take effect, but the majority of people are better after four to six weeks. alternative treatments for anxiety -forming and will not cause addiction, so they are safe to use for longer periods of time. Another type of antidepressant, SNRIs (serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors), also treats depression and anxiety. SNRIs are citalopram, the escitalopram and fluoxetine (Prozac) as well as paraxetine (Paxil), and sertraline. Tricyclic antidepressants such as imipramine (Tofranil) and doxepine and Anxiety Disorder stimulant are also used to treat depression and anxiety. New antidepressants like mirtazapine (Remeron) are also 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, referred to as neurotransmitters. They stop the brain from absorbing 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 Bulimia nervosa and binge-eating disorder, but it is less common. People suffering from anxiety who don't respond to SSRIs could be prescribed an antipsychotic atypical drug. Examples include quetiapine (Abilify) and aripiprazole, (Risperdal). These drugs reduce anxiety in people who have obsessive compulsive disorder. They are typically prescribed together with an antidepressant. they are less likely of serious side effects compared to other types of antipsychotics. Beta-blockers are also prescribed for anxiety, and heart conditions. Propranolol and Atenolol are two examples. 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 following surgery and also for certain chronic pain conditions. Benzodiazepines like lorazepam (Ativan) can be used to treat symptoms when other medicines aren't working. They can be addictive and can be habit-forming. SNRIs SNRIs are a type of antidepressant medication that is typically prescribed to combat anxiety. They work similarly to SSRIs, but they also increase the amount of norepinephrine and serotonin in the brain. They are therefore more effective in treating specific anxiety disorders like anxiety disorder, social anxiety and panic disorder. These medications work best in conjunction with other treatment strategies and talk therapy. In contrast to benzodiazepines, SNRIs do not cause dependence or addiction for most people. However, some patients may experience withdrawal when discontinuing the medication after a long period of use. It is important to consult your physician prior to stopping any medication. Serotonin and norepinephrine are neurotransmitters responsible for mood and stress responses. Specifically, they play an important part in the fight or flight response that many people with anxiety experience. By preventing the reuptake process, SNRIs stop nerve cells from absorption of these neurotransmitters in a rapid manner. They keep these chemicals in the body for longer periods of time and can improve mood, reduce anxiety, and even help with anxiety attacks. Norepinephrine also plays a role in anxiety, as it triggers the Amygdala. This is a deep and primitive brain region that is linked to fearful behavior. SNRIs reduce the activity of this area of the brain. This can boost mood, anxiety, and even help with panic attacks. These medications are very helpful, but they can also increase suicidal behavior in certain people. This is why they are typically prescribed in higher doses for a short time. These medications may also interact with other medications and substances. You should inform your doctor if you are taking any other prescriptions or over-the prescription medication. Also, keep them informed of any medical conditions that may be underlying such as heart issues and bleeding issues. Be aware that some patients have adverse reactions to SNRIs like dry mouth and nausea. Benzodiazepines Benzos, or benzodiazepines as they are commonly called are drugs that act quickly and reduce anxiety and related symptoms, including insomnia and muscle tension. Certain people suffering from anxiety disorders such as panic disorder or social anxiety may find them useful particularly if they've not been able to respond to other treatments such as SSRIs and psychotherapy. They are also a good temporary solution, for example, while you are waiting for an antidepressant to begin working. The medications diazepam (Valium) and lorazepam (Ativan) are the most common benzos, but other options include clonazepam (Rivotril) as well as temazepam (Restoril) and flurazepam (Dalmane). They usually start working within 30 minutes because they're quick-acting. These drugs don't last long in the body, therefore you must take them regularly to reap the benefits. Using benzos for long durations of time can lead to addiction and physical dependence, so they should be used only for the shortest period possible. Benzos should not be used by those suffering from anxiety or depression as they can increase the risk. People who take benzos for an extended period of time, without medical supervision and often without the direction of a doctor, could develop a condition known as sedative use disorders, which includes withdrawal symptoms and addiction. It is rare for people who take benzos as prescribed to develop this disorder, however. Instead, the misuse of benzos is usually the result of other causes like alcohol abuse or depression. Utilizing benzodiazepines in the long term can also cause tolerance to their sedating effects. As you get used to them, it takes more and more of the medication to produce the same effect. In some instances it can result in respiratory depression, coma, and death. It is essential to take benzodiazepines as prescribed, even on a long-term basis. Other Medicines SSRIs and SNRIs will be the primary medications that doctors prescribe to treat anxiety. They alter serotonin which affects mood, sleep, appetite and appetite. It can take up to 12 weeks to start working and may have side effects such as nausea or insomnia. SSRIs are also used to treat mental disorders, such as panic disorder, depression, and obsessive compulsive disorder. Antidepressants, unlike benzodiazepines, do not cause physical dependence. However, they can cause withdrawal symptoms when abruptly stopped. Medications in this class include sertraline (Zoloft) and fluoxetine (Prozac) and citalopram (Celexa). They can be taken on their own or in conjunction with therapy. Antidepressants are prescribed by psychiatrists, psychologists or family physicians who have specialized expertise in the field of medication management. Doctors may prescribe a class called monoamine-oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) as an antidepressant. These drugs inhibit the action of certain enzymes that break down chemicals, such as serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine. MAOIs may take three or four weeks to begin working but aren't as fast-acting as SSRIs. Clonidine is another medication that can be used to treat anxiety. It is typically used to treat anxiety but is also used to lower blood pressure. Its effectiveness is limited due to adverse effects such as hypotension and sedation. Doctors can also prescribe antihistamines, like hydroxyzine, to ease symptoms of anxiety and panic attacks. Certain patients may also experience a decrease in the effectiveness of benzodiazepines. The treatment for anxiety is usually combining psychotherapy, medication and exercise. Engaging with a therapist who is specialized in treating anxiety disorders is the most effective way to treat anxiety. They can help you identify the root causes of your anxiety, and suggest ways to manage it without medication if required. Other options for treating anxiety that do not require medication include eye movement desensitization, reprocessing, mindfulness meditation and trauma-informed yoga. Talk with your therapist about what options are best for you. Psychiatrists are trained to analyze your medical history and symptoms and develop an anxiety treatment plan that is suitable for you. They will consider your specific diagnosis, lifestyle, medical history and preferences when developing this plan and make adjustments as needed.