10 Anxiety Disorder Medication Hacks All Experts Recommend

Types of Anxiety Disorder Medication Medicines can be a useful tool for managing anxiety symptoms. Psychiatrists have extensive training in the use of medication and are able to make appropriate prescriptions that will minimize side effects. The typical treatment for anxiety disorders is three-pronged and consists of psychotherapy, exercise and medications. SSRIs, the first treatment for anxiety can take several weeks to work. SSRIs The majority of anxiety disorders are treated with SSRIs. The more recent SSRIs are less likely to trigger adverse effects than older tricyclics and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or tricyclic antidepressants. A variety of SSRIs have been approved by the FDA to treat anxiety disorders that are generalized. These include fluoxetine (aka Prozac), paraxetine, (aka Paxil), and sertraline (aka Zoloft), as along with citalopram (aka Celexa). These medicines can boost serotonin in the brain, and may also help to boost norepinephrine or BDNF. They are able to be employed in combination with psychotherapy or on their own. SSRIs can cause side effects, like nausea and digestive issues however, they tend to improve as the body gets used to the medication. The exact mechanism of the SSRIs' effect on anxiety isn't fully known. It is believed that SSRIs inhibit serotonin reuptake in post-synaptic neurons and increase the concentration serotonin within the synaptic gaps. This increases the signaling across the synapses, which reduces anxiety symptoms. SSRIs can help reduce anxiety and the severity of panic attacks. They can also be used to treat depression and other mental disorders which are often linked to anxiety disorders. They can be used in conjunction with psychotherapy or other forms of cognitive behavior therapy to increase their effectiveness. SSRIs aren't addictive, unlike some other antidepressants. It is still important to follow the prescription of your doctor. If you suddenly stop taking your medication, it can cause “discontinuation” syndrome and anxiety symptoms to return. If SSRIs aren't suitable for you, your doctor could look into a different kind of antidepressants, such as mirtazapine or nefazodone. These drugs may be effective, but they are more at risk of adverse side effects than the newer SSRIs. SSRIs can interact with certain foods, such as eggs, red meat dairy, certain fruits and vegetables. It is advised to avoid these foods if you are taking these medications. Additionally it is generally advised that you do not drink alcohol when taking SSRIs because this can cause more severe adverse reactions. Benzodiazepines Benzodiazepines increase the calming effect of certain chemicals found in the nervous system and brain. They work by enhancing the effects of a neurotransmitter named gamma-aminobutyric acids (GABA) that inhibits the activity of nerves. These drugs can be effective in treating insomnia, anxiety and other mental disorders. However they can also be addictive and should only be used for brief durations of time under medical supervision. Benzos are dangerous when taken recreationally, or when mixed with alcohol or other substances. It is not uncommon for medications to be the first thing people turn to when they have an anxiety disorder However, they're not the only option for treatment. Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy, has also been shown to help reduce anxiety symptoms. There are a myriad of psychotherapies that can help, but the most popular and effective one is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). This kind of therapy teaches you to change your thoughts and behavior to are less stressed. The most commonly used benzodiazepines are alprazolam (Xanax) as well as chlordiazepoxide (Librium), diazepam (Valium), clorazepate (Tranxene), Lorazepam (Ativan), and the quazepam (Dalmane). Each has a unique set of adverse effects, although they all share similar pharmacological properties. Clorazepate for instance is more effective in treating seizure disorders compared to other benzodiazepines. Lorazepam on the contrary, is more effective at treating anxiety disorders compared to the quazepam. Although benzodiazepines may be effective, they are not recommended for long-term use as they can trigger physical dependence and tolerance. They can also trigger withdrawal symptoms, such as a pounding of the heart as well as sweating and shaking, if you suddenly stop taking the medication. The symptoms can be extremely unpleasant and can last for weeks, but they can be reduced by slowly reducing the medication. Benzodiazepines can be extremely addictive and should only be used only for a short time. Usually, no more than four weeks. You must monitor your heart rate, blood pressure and your breathing during this period to ensure that you don't have an extremely severe reaction. If you're thinking about getting a benzodiazepine prescription, talk to your doctor about your past history of abuse. Beta-blockers Beta-blockers are used to treat anxiety symptoms. These drugs stop adrenaline from binding to beta receptors in your nervous system, which prevents the hormone from triggering physical responses like heart tremors and heart palpitations. These drugs are typically prescribed to treat high blood pressure and other cardiovascular issues. However they are also available off-label to treat anxiety. When you are feeling anxious, your body releases a chemical known as Adrenaline. This chemical signals your body to prepare itself to fight or flee. Adrenaline binds beta receptors in the heart and brain and causes your heart to beat more quickly and causing other physical reactions. Beta-blockers, the name of a class of medication that are used to treat hypertension and various heart diseases they work by preventing the binding action of adrenaline, 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 a difference in symptoms. This makes them an excellent alternative for those who require immediate relief from anxiety-related symptoms, such as those who need to deliver speeches in public or take planes. They are also a good option for those suffering from anxiety and chronic heart problems like atherosclerosis or congestive cardiac failure. Although beta-blockers are effective at decreasing physical symptoms of anxiety, they do not treat the root of the disorder. They are therefore only prescribed as part of an extensive treatment plan that incorporates lifestyle adjustments and counseling. They can be beneficial for those who have tried medications for anxiety but found it to be ineffective or had unpalatable side effects. Propranolol and atenolol as well as other beta-blockers are available. Your doctor will determine which beta-blocker is best for you depending on your medical background and current health condition. The use of these medicines can cause side effects, such as fatigue or low blood pressure and fatigue, so it is crucial to discuss your treatment options with your doctor. MAOIs The first MAOIs were developed in the 1950s. monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) are effective antidepressants that can treat depression and anxiety disorders. They aren't as frequently used as SSRIs and other antidepressants due to the strict dietary restrictions that are required and the risk of drug interactions. Some MAOIs come in tablet form and are taken orally, while others (such Emsam) are applied as a transdermal skin patch. MAOIs block the action of MAO and increase the amount of norepinephrine and serotonin in the brain. These neurotransmitters are involved in mood, sleep, appetite, and sexual function. MAOIs have an anti-anxiety effect. They are more likely than TCAs or SSRIs to trigger side effects and are accompanied by warnings regarding suicide. Your doctor may prescribe additional medications or treatments to help manage your symptoms, in addition to the MAOIs below. Beta-blockers, such as propranolol is frequently prescribed to reduce physical symptoms associated with anxiety. Your doctor may also suggest an exercise routine or other home remedies to ease your anxiety symptoms. The original MAOI, Iproniazid, was discovered during tuberculosis research in 1952. It was soon discovered to have mood-elevating properties and is regarded as the first antidepressant medication. Typically, MAOIs can only be employed when other antidepressants fail to work, since they can cause serious adverse effects that require immediate medical attention. If you use an MAOI and consume foods containing the chemical tyramine that is found in many red meats, cheeses, shellfish, fish, and certain dietary supplements, it can trigger an unintentional reaction that results in high blood pressure. This severe reaction can cause a throbbing head pain nausea, vomiting, and a rapid heartbeat. MAOIs can also interact with other medications and cause severe side effects like suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Your doctor will discuss your diet requirements with you prior to prescribing MAOIs. The doctor will advise you to stay clear of eating foods that contain tyramine when you are taking the medication. They may also give you an inventory of food that are safe to consume when taking MAOIs. This food guide can help to avoid MAOI-related symptoms.