Why You'll Need To Find Out More About Meds To Treat Anxiety

Medications to Treat Anxiety

Therapy is the best method to manage anxiety, however sometimes a short-term course medication may be necessary. Treatment options for anxiety include antidepressants and tranquilizers.

SSRI antidepressants, such as citalopram (Celexa), Escitalopram (Lexapro) and sertraline (Zoloft), improve the communication between nerve cells in the brain, and may reduce anxiety. SNRIs that target the chemicals serotonin and norepinephrine may also be effective.

SSRIs

SSRIs are typically the first prescription medication recommended by doctors to treat anxiety disorders. They block nerve cell re-absorption of serotonin in the brain, a substance that is important for mood regulation. It takes some time for the medications to take effect however, people typically begin to feel better after 4 to 6 weeks. SSRIs do not develop a habit and aren't addicting, therefore they can continue to be used for a long period of time.

Another type of antidepressant, SNRIs (serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors), also treats depression and anxiety. Examples of SNRIs are citalopram (Celexa), Escitalopram (Lexapro), the fluoxetine (Prozac), paroxetine (Paxil) and sertraline (Zoloft). Tricyclic antidepressants, such as imipramine (Tofranil), doxepine, and an Anxiety Disorder stimulant are also used to treat anxiety and depression. Novel antidepressants, such as mirtazapine (Remeron) are also sometimes used to treat anxiety disorders.

Doctors aren't sure how SNRIs or SSRIs work however they do know that they boost the activity of chemical messengers known as neurotransmitters in the brain. They prevent the brain from reabsorbing chemicals and allow these chemicals to bind to 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, however this is less frequent.

People suffering from anxiety who are not responding to SSRIs may be prescribed an atypical antipsychotic drug. Examples include quetiapine, (Abilify), and aripiprazole (Risperdal). These medications ease anxiety for people suffering from obsessive compulsive disorders. They are usually prescribed in combination with an antidepressant. They have a lower chance of serious adverse effects than other kinds of antipsychotics.

Beta-blockers are also prescribed for anxiety, and heart issues. Examples include propranolol (Inderal) and atenolol (Tenormin). They can help reduce physical symptoms of anxiety for people who suffer from social anxiety disorder. They can also aid in reducing anxiety before or following surgery and also for certain chronic pain issues. Benzodiazepines, such as lorazepam or Ativan (Ativan), can be utilized when other treatments aren't working. The use of benzodiazepines can become addictive and can be habit-forming.

SNRIs

SNRIs are a different kind of antidepressant medications often prescribed to treat anxiety. They work in a similar way similar to SSRIs but they also increase the amount of norepinephrine and serotonin. They are therefore more efficient in treating certain anxiety disorders, such as social anxiety disorder and anxiety panic disorder. They are most effective when combined with other treatments and talk therapy.

Unlike other benzodiazepines, SNRIs aren't able to cause addiction or dependence in the majority of people. However, some patients might feel withdrawal symptoms when stopping the medication after a lengthy period of use. This is why it is important to speak with your doctor before stopping any medication.

Neurotransmitters such serotonin as well as norepinephrine regulate stress and mood. They play a crucial role in the fight or flight response that many sufferers of anxiety feel. The SNRIs hinder nerve cells from quickly mopping up neurotransmitters by preventing the process of reuptake. They hold these chemicals in the body for longer, and can improve mood, reduce anxiety, and even ease panic attacks.

Norepinephrine is also crucial for anxiety as it stimulates the amygdala, a deep and primal part of the brain that is associated with fear-related behavior. SNRIs have been shown to reduce activity in this part of the brain, which can positively affect mood and anxiety, as well as alleviate anxiety attacks.

While these medications can be very beneficial, it is important to keep in mind that they do have the potential of causing increased suicidal thoughts in some individuals. Because of this, they are usually prescribed in higher doses and for a shorter duration. They may also interact with other medications and substances. You should inform your doctor if are taking any other prescriptions, or over-the generic medicines. Also, keep them informed of any existing conditions such as heart issues and bleeding disorders. Be aware that some patients have reported adverse reactions to SNRIs including dry mouth and nausea.

Benzodiazepines

Benzodiazepines, or benzos as they are commonly called, are quick-acting drugs that reduce anxiety and other anxiety-related symptoms, including insomnia and muscle tension. They are useful in some patients suffering from anxiety disorders, such as panic disorder and social anxiety particularly if other treatments, like SSRIs or psychotherapy (talk therapy), don't work. They can also be employed as a temporary remedy as you wait for your antidepressant medication to begin to work. Benzos include diazepam, lorazepam as well as temazepam and flurazepam.

They usually start working within 30 minutes because they are rapid-acting. The meds don't last in the body for long, which is why they must be regularly taken to reap the full benefits. Utilizing benzos for prolonged periods of time can lead to physical dependence and addiction and should only be used for the most brief period of time. Benzos are not recommended for those with anxiety disorders or depression because they may increase the risk of developing those issues.

People who take benzos for an extended time, often without medical supervision, may develop a condition called sedative-use disorders, which can include addiction and withdrawal symptoms.  iampsychiatry.com  is a rare issue for people who take benzos according to prescription. Benzo abuse usually stems from other causes like alcoholism or depression.

The tolerance to benzodiazepines may develop if they are taken for a long period of time. As you get used to them of the effects, you need to take more of the medication to produce the same effect. In some instances it can result in respiratory depression, coma or death. Even if you are taking benzodiazepines for a prolonged duration, it is crucial to follow the prescription.

Other Medications

SSRIs and SNRIs are the first medication prescribed by doctors to treat anxiety. They affect serotonin, which influences mood, appetite, and sleep. They may take a long time to show results, up to 12 weeks, and have certain side effects, such as insomnia or nausea. SSRIs can also be used to treat mental disorders such as panic disorder, depression, and obsessive compulsive disorder. In contrast to benzodiazepines they don't create physical dependence, but they can cause withdrawal symptoms if abruptly stopped.

Medications in this class include sertraline (Zoloft) as well as the fluoxetine (Prozac) and citalopram (Celexa). They can be taken as a stand-alone treatment or in conjunction with therapy. Antidepressants are prescribed by a psychiatrist, psychologist or family physician with special training in the field of medication management.

Doctors can prescribe a specific class of antidepressants referred to as monoamine oxidase inhibitors or MAOIs. These medications block the action of enzymes that break chemicals into smaller pieces, such as serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine. MAOIs may take up to four weeks to start working however, they aren't as fast-acting than SSRIs.

Clonidine is another drug that can be used to manage anxiety. It is commonly used to treat anxiety but it is also used to control blood pressure. Its effectiveness is limited due to adverse effects like hypotension and sedation. Doctors may prescribe antihistamines like hydroxyzine, to ease symptoms of panic attacks and anxiety. They can also reduce the effectiveness of benzodiazepines for some patients.

Anxiety is often treated with a combination of psychotherapy exercise and medication. A therapist who has a specialization in anxiety disorders is the most effective method to manage anxiety. They can help you identify the root cause of anxiety and recommend strategies to manage it without medication if required. Other options for treating anxiety that aren't medications include eye movement desensitization and mindfulness meditation, reprocessing and yoga based on trauma. Talk to your therapist about what options are most suitable for you. Psychologists are trained to evaluate your medical history, symptoms and create an appropriate treatment plan for anxiety that is right for you. They will consider your specific diagnosis, lifestyle, medical background and preferences when creating this plan, and will make adjustments as needed.