10 Tips For Anxiety Disorder Medication That Are Unexpected

Types of Anxiety Disorder Medication Medicines can be a useful tool for managing anxiety symptoms. Psychiatrists have extensive training in the use of drugs and are able to write appropriate prescriptions that will minimize the adverse effects. Typical anxiety disorder treatment is three-pronged and consists of psychotherapy, exercise and medications. SSRIs, the first choice of medications for treating anxiety can take several weeks to take effect. SSRIs SSRIs are the drug of choice for the majority of anxiety disorders . The newer SSRIs are less likely to cause adverse reactions than older tricyclics and monoamine oxide inhibitors (MAOIs) or tricyclic antidepressants. There are a variety of SSRIs are FDA-approved for treating generalized anxiety disorder . These include fluoxetine (aka Prozac), paroxetine (aka Paxil), sertraline (aka Zoloft), and citalopram (aka Celexa). These medications can increase serotonin in the brain, and could also help increase norepinephrine, or BDNF. They can be used in combination with psychotherapy or on their own. SSRIs may cause adverse effects, such as nausea and digestive issues, but these usually improve as the body gets used to the medication. The precise mechanism behind how SSRIs are effective in treating anxiety is not understood fully. It is believed that SSRIs block the reuptake serotonin by the post-synaptic neuron and increase the amount of serotonin in the synaptic gaps. This increases the amount of signals that cross the synapse, which in turn decreases anxiety symptoms. SSRIs can decrease anxiety and increase the frequency of panic attacks. They also aid in the treatment of depression and other mental health conditions that are often associated with anxiety disorders. They can be incorporated into psychotherapy or cognitive behavior therapy to enhance their effectiveness. Contrary to other classes of antidepressants, SSRIs don't appear to be addictive. However, it is crucial to follow your doctor's instructions exactly. If you stop taking your medication abruptly and suddenly, it can trigger “discontinuation syndrome” and a return of anxiety-related symptoms. If SSRIs aren't suitable for you, your doctor might consider a different type of antidepressants, like nefazodone or mirtazapine. These medications are also effective, but carry greater risk of side effects than the newer SSRIs. SSRIs can interact with certain foods, like red meat, eggs, dairy, and some vegetables and fruits. It is recommended to stay clear of these foods if taking these medications. Additionally, it is generally recommended to avoid drinking alcohol when taking SSRIs since it can increase the severity of some side effects. Benzodiazepines Benzodiazepines boost the calming effect of certain chemicals in the nervous system and brain. They work by enhancing the effects of a neurotransmitter named gamma-aminobutyric acids (GABA) which inhibits the activity of nerves. These drugs are effective in treating insomnia, anxiety, and other psychological disorders. However they can also be addictive and should only be used for brief durations under medical supervision. Benzos can be dangerous if taken recreationally or in combination with other substances, including alcohol. It is not uncommon for medications to be the first thing that people turn to when they suffer from an anxiety disorder, but they're not the only option for treatment. Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy, has also been proven to help decrease anxiety-related symptoms. There are many psychotherapies that can help however the most well-known and effective one is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). This type of therapy teaches you to change your thoughts and behavior in order to feel less anxious. Alprazolam, chlordiazepoxide, diazepam Clorazepate, lorazepam, and quazepam are among the most commonly used benzodiazepines. Each has a unique set of adverse effects, although they all share similar properties pharmacologically. Clorazepate, for example is more effective in treating seizure disorders compared to other benzodiazepines. Lorazepam on the other hand, is better in treating anxiety disorders as in comparison to quazepam. Although benzodiazepines can be very efficient, they are not recommended for long-term use because they can trigger physical dependence and tolerance. In addition, they can cause withdrawal symptoms when you stop taking them abruptly, such as sweating, a pounding heart and shaking. The symptoms can be uncomfortable and last for a long time. However they can be reduced by reducing the medication slowly. Benzodiazepines can be very addictive and should be used only for a short duration – typically not more than 4 weeks. During this time, you will need to closely monitor your heart rate and blood pressure to ensure that you don't suffer a severe withdrawal reaction. If you're thinking of getting a prescription for benzodiazepine, talk to your doctor about your history of abuse. Beta-blockers Beta-blockers are used to treat anxiety-related symptoms. These drugs block adrenaline from binding to beta receptors in your nervous system, which prevents the hormone from triggering physical reactions like heart tremors and heart palpitations. These drugs are typically prescribed to treat high blood-pressure and other cardiovascular conditions. However they can also be prescribed off-label to treat anxiety. If you are stressed, your body releases a chemical known as Adrenaline. This chemical signals the body to prepare itself to fight or flee. Adrenaline binds beta receptors found in the brain and heart which causes your heart to beat faster and triggering other physical reactions. Beta-blockers, which are an class of drugs that is used to treat hypertension and other heart ailments, work by blocking the action of adrenaline on its binding, which helps to reduce your heart rate and blood pressure. Beta-blockers work quickly, unlike SSRIs or benzodiazepines, which take weeks or even months to show an improvement in symptoms. They are an excellent choice for people who require immediate relief from anxiety symptoms. For instance, people who are required to deliver an address in public or travel in an airplane. In addition, they are a good choice for people who suffer from anxiety and a chronic heart condition, such as atherosclerosis or congestive cardiac failure. Beta-blockers can help reduce physical symptoms of anxiety but they don't address the root causes. As a result, they are typically prescribed as a part of a larger treatment plan that incorporates counseling and lifestyle adjustments. However, they are an effective option for those who have tried other medications for anxiety and have not found them to be effective or have intolerable side effects. Propranolol, atenolol, as well as other beta-blockers are available. Your doctor will determine which one is best for you according to your medical history and health status. These medications may cause adverse effects, such as fatigue or low blood pressure. It is important to discuss treatment options with your physician. MAOIs Monoamine Oxase inhibitors (MAOIs) were developed in the 1950s to be an antidepressant, are effective for certain anxiety and depression disorders. They aren't as frequently utilized as SSRIs or other antidepressants because of the strict dietary restrictions required and the potential for drug interactions. Some MAOIs are taken orally in tablet form while others (such as Emsam) come in the form of a transdermal patch applied to the skin each day. MAOIs block the action of MAO and increase the amount of norepinephrine as well as serotonin in the brain. These neurotransmitters play a part in sleep, mood, and appetite, as in sexual function as well. MAOIs are anti-anxiety. However they are more likely to cause side effects than TCAs and SSRIs and carry boxed warnings for suicide. Your doctor may prescribe other medications or treatments to help manage your symptoms, in addition to the MAOIs listed below. A beta-blocker, such as propranolol is frequently prescribed to ease physical symptoms of anxiety. Your doctor may recommend a relaxation technique, or other home treatments to help ease your symptoms. Iproniazid was the first MAOI discovered in 1952 as part of research into tuberculosis. It was quickly discovered that it could possess mood-enhancing properties and is considered to be the first antidepressant medication. Generally, MAOIs are only employed when other antidepressants fail to perform, as they could cause serious adverse effects that require immediate medical attention. It could trigger a serious reaction resulting in high blood pressure if you are taking an MAOI while eating foods that contain tyramine. Tyramine is present in a wide variety of red meats and cheeses as well as in fish, shellfish and a few dietary supplements. The symptoms of this reaction include a throbbing headache, nausea vomiting, as well as a fast heart rate. MAOIs may also interact with other medications and can result in severe side effects such as suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Before prescribing MAOIs, your physician will discuss with you the foods to avoid. He or she will advise you to stay clear of eating foods that contain tyramine when taking the drug. The doctor will also give a list of foods that are safe to eat while on MAOIs. This food guide can help you avoid MAOI-related side effects.