Anxiety Treatments Medication
If you are suffering with anxiety or panic attacks It is crucial to seek out professional help. Treatment options include lifestyle changes, such as reducing stress and getting regular exercise. Your doctor may recommend psychotherapy.
The FDA has approved a variety of medications for anxiety disorders, such as SNRIs and SSRIs, which impact serotonin, the neurotransmitter that controls our brains. Anticonvulsants such as pregabalin can help reduce anxiety by altering GABA receptors.
Benzodiazepines
Benzodiazepines are drugs that act on the nervous system to produce the sensation of calming. They work by enhancing the effects of a neurotransmitter named gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. GABA blocks the function of nerves in the brain and spinal cord, and therefore helps to reduce anxiety.
Unlike antidepressants, which can take weeks to begin working, benzodiazepines have the ability to reduce anxiety symptoms quickly. However, benzodiazepines come with an increased risk of dependency and abuse. The body becomes accustomed to benzodiazepines after regular use. This could lead to physical dependence. Benzodiazepines can be an effective treatment if other methods aren't working or aren't available.
While benzodiazepines can be a powerful treatment for anxiety, it is important to speak with your doctor before using them. They will be able to help you identify the root of your anxiety and suggest other options that may be more appropriate. For instance therapy that involves talking, such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and exposure therapy can help address the root of anxiety and help you develop how to manage your anxiety.
Benzodiazepines are not typically used as first-choice medications for anxiety disorders, as they can cause serious negative effects when they are combined with alcohol or other narcotics. They are also addictive, and they have a high risk of overdose. The first benzodiazepines, chlordiazepoxide (Librium, Limbitrol), were introduced in 1950, and were followed by diazepam (Valium) and lorazepam, (Ativan). All of these drugs come with an in-box warning stating that they can cause life-threatening or serious side effects, such as severe sleepiness and breathing problems.
SSRIs
SSRIs are a group of antidepressant medicines that are typically the first choice of those suffering from anxiety. They boost the levels of certain chemical messengers within the brain, particularly serotonin and norepinephrine. They also regulate other important chemicals like those that control sleep and mood, and reduce stress hormones in the body. The most commonly prescribed SSRI for anxiety is fluoxetine, better known by its brand name Prozac. Other SSRIs include Lexapro, Zoloft, and Paxil, while SNRIs include Effexor XR, Cymbalta, and Pristiq.
Although experts aren't certain what SSRIs do to treat anxiety however, they are aware that these drugs enhance the way your brain functions. They boost BDNF (brain-derived Neurotrophic Factor) levels, increase the number of the number of glial cells (brain cells that help nourish and protect your neuronal cells) and increase serotonin levels. The exact mechanism of action isn't completely understood however it could involve the combination of several factors.
SSRIs as with other kinds of medication, can take up to a month to begin to work. They require regular treatment to maintain their benefits. They may cause adverse effects, such as nausea and diarrhea. Some men may notice a decline in libido and sodium levels. Your provider will decide the length of time you'll need to take them, depending on your symptoms and other treatments you're using. treat generalized anxiety disorder might recommend you continue taking them for 6 to 12 months or help you to decrease the dosage and stop the meds. They might also suggest other treatments, such as psychotherapy or herbs and supplements that treat anxiety-related symptoms like Vistaril for itching or Chamomile to help sleep.
Beta-blockers
Beta-blockers, also referred to as beta-adrenergic blocking agents, stop adrenaline from binding to the heart's receptors. This relaxes the heart and lowers blood pressure. They are typically prescribed for anxiety and are a great alternative to traditional medication for psychiatric disorders that can have negative side effects.
Beta-blockers may reduce anxiety-related physical symptoms, but they don't solve the mental stress-related causes. They are typically employed to control specific situations that trigger anxiety, like public speaking or flying. They can be used in combination with therapy to treat the root of the anxiety disorder, or on their own as a long-term daily medication.
Beta blockers have a variety of adverse reactions because of their way of working, including bradycardia, hypotension, and a variety of other conditions. They can also cause you to feel shaken and sweaty. People with asthma, COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) or diabetes shouldn't be taking them.
Beta blockers are commonly researched and utilized despite their side effects. They've been on the market since decades and are generally considered to be safe for adults. They are also fairly inexpensive and accessible compared to other medications. For many, the side effects are worth it in exchange for their effectiveness.
Taking beta-blockers as part of an treatment for anxiety is a great idea for those suffering from mild to moderate anxiety. They are more effective than benzodiazepines which are best for those suffering from life-threatening or severe anxiety disorders. But they aren't able to solve the root of the problem. They are ideal for anxiety that is short-term, such as prior to a major event such as the speech or flight. In addition to decreasing anxiety, they can help you sleep better and regulate your blood sugar.
Monoamine oxidase inhibitors
Monoamine Oxase inhibitors (MAOIs), block the enzyme responsible for breaking down monoamine neurotransmitters. They enhance the availability of serotonin as well as other neurotransmitters like melatonin and epinephrine for transmission by preventing their breakdown in neurons. They are best known as effective antidepressants and have some effectiveness in treating anxiety disorders. They can be used as a single drug or together. They are also used to treat Parkinson's disease as well as various other ailments. Eugenol is an essential oil, is found in the bud, leaves, and stems of clove (Syzygium Aromaticum) and the bark of cinnamon. In a test tube Eugenol was found to block MAOI activity, and could interact negatively with these drugs.
MAOIs can cause serious side effects, and therefore they aren't the first medicine doctors recommend for depression or anxiety. Usually, they are reserved for those who have failed to respond to other treatments. They are also used for various other conditions like Parkinson's disease and fibromyalgia. They can lead to low blood pressure when standing in a sitting or lying position, which is known as orthostatic hypotension.
MAOIs are commonly used to treat panic disorder as well as atypical depression and tranylcypromine. Phenelzine has been studied in a small way in panic disorder, and is the drug of choice for people suffering from atypical depression, while tranylcypromine is been praised for its positive adverse effects. These drugs are not as potent as SSRIs however they can be useful in treating certain kinds of depression and anxiety disorders.
The older MAOIs may not be as secure as the more recent Reversible MAOIs, such as selegiline and Moclobemide. They are more effective in increasing the monoamine levels in depression than older MAOIs. They are less likely than older MAOIs to trigger high blood pressure, however they still have a chance of developing a pharmacological dependence.
Buspirone
Combining therapy with medication is the best way to combat anxiety. Certain medications can ease symptoms however they should only be used under the supervision of a physician. There are many different medications for anxiety, and they perform differently for each individual. To find the right medicine for you, speak to your doctor and discuss your symptoms.
Buspirone is an FDA-approved medication for anxiety that works by altering the neurotransmitters serotonin and dopamine. It reduces anxiety and mood disorders without the feeling of sedation. It's also less likely to be habit-forming than other sedatives such as benzodiazepines. This makes it a good option for people looking to control their anxiety but don't want to use a drug like Xanax.
SSRIs and SNRIs are typically the first option for treating generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). These antidepressants can regulate mood and increase serotonin levels. They are typically prescribed in conjunction with other anxiety medications like benzodiazepines. They are not usually prescribed for prolonged periods of time because they are addictive and can cause negative side effects, such as drowsiness.
Psychological treatments for GAD that include medication have proven to be effective in the short-term and may improve the outcome over time. These include cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) as well as art or creative therapy, and exposure therapy. Psychological therapy can help people learn techniques to better manage depression and anxiety. This can help them live a more fulfilling life and manage symptoms. Many of these treatments are accessible online, and some may be covered by your insurance. For example, Brightside is an online therapy service that offers various treatments for depression and anxiety including CBT.