5 Facts Anxiety Disorder Medication Is Actually A Great Thing
Types of Anxiety Disorder Medication The use of medications is a fantastic way to treat anxiety-related symptoms. Psychologists have extensive experience in the use of medication 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 are the most popular treatment for anxiety can take several weeks to take effect. SSRIs The majority of anxiety disorders are treated with SSRIs. The more recent SSRIs are less likely to cause adverse effects than older tricyclics and monoamine oxide inhibitors (MAOIs) or tricyclic antidepressants. There are a variety of SSRIs are FDA-approved to treat generalized anxiety disorder, including fluoxetine (aka Prozac), paroxetine (aka Paxil) and sertraline (aka Zoloft), and citalopram (aka Celexa). These medications boost serotonin levels in the brain. They may aid in increasing norepinephrine levels and BDNF. They are able to be utilized in conjunction with psychotherapy, or by themselves. SSRIs can cause side effects, like nausea and digestive issues however, they tend to improve as the body gets used to the medication. The precise mechanism behind how SSRIs are effective in treating anxiety is not fully understood. It is believed that SSRIs inhibit serotonin reuptake in post-synaptic neurons and increase the amount of serotonin in the synaptic gaps. This enhances the signaling across the synapses, which 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 and other mental conditions which are often linked to anxiety disorders. They can be used with cognitive behavior therapy or psychotherapy to increase their effectiveness. SSRIs are not addictive, unlike other antidepressants. It is nevertheless important to follow the prescriptions of your doctor. If you suddenly stop taking your medication, it could result in “discontinuation” syndrome and anxiety symptoms to come back. If SSRIs are not working for you, then your doctor may try an alternative class of antidepressants, such as nefazodone, or mirtazapine. These drugs are also effective, but have greater risk of adverse reactions than the more recent SSRIs. SSRIs can interact with certain foods, including red meat, eggs dairy, certain vegetables and fruits. It is best to avoid these foods if taking these medications. In addition, it is generally recommended that you do not drink alcohol when taking SSRIs because this can increase the severity of some adverse reactions. Benzodiazepines Benzodiazepines boost the calming effect of certain chemicals in the brain and nervous system. They enhance the effects of a neurotransmitter named Gamma-aminobutyric Acid (GABA) which inhibits the nerves' 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 short durations of time under medical supervision. Benzos are dangerous when taken in a recreational manner, or when mixed with alcohol or other substances. When someone is suffering from anxiety disorders, they typically turn to medication as their first choice. However this isn't the only option. Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy, has also been proven to help decrease anxiety symptoms. There are a myriad of psychotherapies, but cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is the most well-known and effective. This kind of therapy teaches you to alter your thinking and behavior to feel less anxious. The most popular benzodiazepines include alprazolam (Xanax) and chlordiazepoxide (Librium) diazepam (Valium), clorazepate (Tranxene) as well as lorazepam (Ativan) and the quazepam (Dalmane). They all share the same physical properties, but each has its own unique side effects profile. Clorazepate for instance is more effective in treating seizure disorders than other benzodiazepines. Lorazepam, on contrary, is more effective in treating anxiety disorders when in comparison to Quazepam. While benzodiazepines are effective, they are not 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 a heart pounding as well as sweating and shaking, if you suddenly stop taking the medication. The symptoms can be uncomfortable and last for several weeks. However, they can be minimized if you taper off the medication slowly. Benzodiazepines can be very addictive and should be taken only for a short time, usually not more than 4 weeks. During this period, you'll be required to monitor your heart rate and blood pressure to ensure you don't suffer an extreme withdrawal reaction. Consult your physician in the event that you are thinking of taking the use of a drug called benzodiazepine. Beta-blockers Beta-blockers are an type of medication that helps to treat anxiety-related symptoms. These drugs prevent adrenaline from binding with beta receptors in your nervous system. This stops the hormone from creating physical reactions, such as heart tremors or palpitations. These drugs are typically used to treat high blood pressure and other cardiovascular ailments. However, they can be prescribed off-label to treat anxiety. When you are feeling anxious your body releases a chemical known as Adrenaline. This chemical signals the body to prepare itself to fight or flee. Adrenaline binds beta receptors in the heart and brain which causes your heart to beat faster and causing other physical reactions. Beta-blockers are a class medication that treat hypertension and other heart ailments. They work by blocking adrenaline's binding action. This helps to lower your blood pressure and heart rate. Unlike SSRIs and benzodiazepines, which take a few weeks or months to make a noticeable difference in your symptoms, beta-blockers are fast-acting. This makes them a great alternative for those who require immediate relief from their anxiety for instance, those who have to give a speech in public or take a plane. They are also a good choice for people who suffer from anxiety as well as an ongoing heart condition such as atherosclerosis or congestive heart failure. Although beta-blockers are effective in alleviating physical symptoms of anxiety, they don't treat the root of the disorder. They are only prescribed in conjunction with an extensive treatment plan that includes lifestyle changes and counseling. However, they are an effective option for those who have tried other anti-anxiety medications and have not found them to be effective or cause uncontrollable side effects. There are a variety of different kinds of beta-blockers, including propranolol and atenolol. Your doctor will determine the best beta-blocker for you, based on your medical background and current health status. Taking panic anxiety disorder can have side effects, such as fatigue or low blood pressure It is therefore important to discuss your treatment options with your doctor. MAOIs Monoamine oxide inhibitors (MAOIs), created in the 1950s as an antidepressant, are effective for certain anxiety and depression disorders. They are not as commonly employed as SSRIs and other antidepressants due to the strict dietary restrictions that are required and the risk of interactions with other drugs. Certain MAOIs are administered by mouth in tablet form, while others (such as Emsam) come in the form of a transdermal patch applied to the skin each day. MAOIs inhibit the action of MAO which increases the amount of serotonin as well as norepinephrine in the brain. These neurotransmitters play a part in sleep, mood and appetite, as well as sexual function. MAOIs also have anti-anxiety properties. However, they are more likely to trigger side effects than TCAs and SSRIs and come with boxed warnings for suicide. In addition to the MAOIs listed below, your doctor may prescribe other treatments or medications that could help manage your symptoms. Beta-blockers, such as propranolol, is usually prescribed to alleviate the physical symptoms of anxiety. Your doctor may also suggest an exercise routine or other at-home treatments to ease your anxiety symptoms. The original MAOI, Iproniazid, was discovered during research into tuberculosis in 1952. It was soon discovered to have mood-elevating qualities and is regarded as the first antidepressant drug. Typically, MAOIs can only be used when other antidepressants do not work, as they may cause serious adverse reactions that require immediate medical attention. It could cause a risky reaction that can result in high blood pressure if you are taking an MAOI while eating foods that contain tyramine. Tyramine is found in many red meats and cheeses as well as in shellfish, fish and a few dietary supplements. Symptoms of this severe reaction include nausea, throbbing headaches, vomiting, and fast heart rate. MAOIs can also interact other medications and trigger severe adverse effects, including suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Your doctor will discuss your diet needs with you prior to prescribing MAOIs. The doctor will advise you against eating foods that contain tyramine if you are you are taking the medication. They might also provide you with the list of foods that are safe to consume when taking MAOIs. This food guide will help prevent MAOI-related side effects.