The Unknown Benefits Of Anxiety Disorder Medication

Types of Anxiety Disorder Medication Medications can be a valuable tool to help manage anxiety symptoms. Psychiatrists are trained extensively in the use of medications and are able to formulate appropriate prescriptions that minimize side effects. The typical treatment for anxiety disorders is three-pronged, and includes psychotherapy, exercise and medications. SSRIs are the first-choice medications for treating anxiety, but they can take several weeks for them to take effect. SSRIs Most anxiety disorders are treated with SSRIs. The latest SSRIs have more favorable adverse effects than tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). There are a variety of SSRIs are FDA-approved for treating generalized anxiety disorder, including fluoxetine (aka Prozac), paroxetine (aka Paxil), sertraline (aka Zoloft), and citalopram (aka Celexa). These drugs boost serotonin levels in the brain. They may also aid in the increase of norepinephrine as well as BDNF. They can be taken on their own or in conjunction with psychotherapy. SSRIs can cause nausea and digestive issues, however these effects tend to diminish as the body gets used to the medication. The precise mechanism through which SSRIs are effective in treating anxiety isn't fully understood. It is believed that SSRIs block the reuptake serotonin by the post-synaptic neurons and increase the amount of serotonin that is present in the synaptic gaps. This increases the amount of signaling that occurs across the synapse, which consequently reduces anxiety symptoms. In addition to decreasing anxiety, SSRIs may reduce the frequency and intensity of panic attacks. They can also be employed to treat depression and other mental illnesses that are often associated with anxiety disorders. They can be used with cognitive behavior therapy or psychotherapy 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 stop taking your medication abruptly it could trigger “discontinuation syndrome” and a return of anxiety-related symptoms. If SSRIs aren't for you, your doctor might try a different class of antidepressants, such as nefazodone or mirtazapine. These drugs may also be effective, but they are more prone to the risk of adverse effects than the more recent SSRIs. SSRIs may interact with certain foods such as dairy products and eggs, red meat and some fruits and veggies. It is best to avoid these foods if taking these medications. In addition, it is generally recommended that you avoid drinking alcohol while taking SSRIs because this can make it more difficult to deal with certain adverse reactions. Benzodiazepines Benzodiazepines improve the calming effect of certain chemicals within the brain and nervous system. They work by enhancing the effects of a neurotransmitter named gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) which inhibits the nerves' activity. These drugs are effective in treating insomnia, anxiety disorders and various mental disorders. They can be addictive, and should only be used for a short time under medical supervision. Benzos may be harmful if taken recreationally or mixed with other drugs like alcohol. It is not uncommon for medications to be the first thing people turn to when they suffer from an anxiety disorder However, they're not the only treatment option. Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy, has also been proven to help decrease anxiety symptoms. There are many different psychotherapies that can help and improve your life, but the most well-known and effective is cognitive behavior therapy (CBT). This type of psychotherapy teaches you how to change your behavior and thoughts to make you less anxious as often. Alprazolam, chlordiazepoxide and diazepam, clorazepate and quazepam are the most common benzodiazepines. Each one has its own set of adverse effects, however, they all share similar pharmacological properties. Clorazepate, for instance is more effective at treating seizure disorders than other benzodiazepines. Lorazepam on the other hand, is better in treating anxiety disorders when in comparison to quazepam. Benzodiazepines can be very effective, however they should not be used for long periods of time because they can cause physical dependence and tolerance. In addition, they can lead to withdrawal symptoms in the event that you stop taking them abruptly, such as a pounding heart, sweating and shaking. The symptoms can be extremely uncomfortable and last for weeks, but they can be reduced by slowly tapering off the medication. Benzodiazepines can be extremely addictive and should be used only for a short time, usually not more than 4 weeks. You should be monitoring your heart rate, blood pressure and breathing throughout this period to ensure you don't suffer an extremely severe reaction. If you're thinking of getting a prescription for benzodiazepine, talk to your doctor about your history of using substances. Beta-blockers Beta-blockers are employed to treat anxiety-related issues. These medications prevent adrenaline from binding to beta receptors in your nervous system. This is a way to stop the hormone from producing physical reactions such as heart palpitations or tremors. These medications are typically used to treat high blood pressure and other cardiovascular conditions, but they can also be prescribed for off-label use for anxiety-related disorders. 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 is a beta receptor that is found in the brain and heart and causes your heart to beat faster and causing other physical reactions. Beta-blockers are a class medication used to treat hypertension, and other heart ailments. They are able to block adrenaline's binding action. This can help lower the blood pressure and heart rate. Unlike SSRIs and benzodiazepines, which take weeks or months to show a significant improvement in your symptoms, beta-blockers are fast-acting. They are an excellent choice for people who require immediate relief from anxiety-related symptoms. For example, those who must give an address in public or travel in an airplane. They can also be a great option for people with anxiety and chronic heart problems such as atherosclerosis and congestive cardiac failure. While beta-blockers can be effective in alleviating physical symptoms of anxiety, they fail to treat the root of the disorder. They are therefore only prescribed as part of an overall treatment plan that includes lifestyle changes and counseling. They are beneficial for those who have tried medication for anxiety and found it ineffective or caused unacceptable side effects. There are several different types of beta-blockers, including propranolol and atenolol. Your doctor will determine which beta-blocker is best for you, based on your medical history and current health condition. Taking these medications can have negative side effects, including fatigue or low blood pressure It is therefore important to discuss your treatment options with your doctor. MAOIs Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) which were first created in the 1950s as an antidepressant, work for certain anxiety and depression disorders. However, they are not used as frequently as SSRIs or other antidepressants due to the requirement for strict dietary restrictions and risks of interactions with drugs. Certain MAOIs are available in tablet form and can be taken orally, whereas others (such Emsam) are applied as a transdermal skin patch. MAOIs inhibit the action of MAO, thereby increasing the amount of serotonin as well as norepinephrine in the brain. These neurotransmitters are involved in sleep, mood appetite, sexual function. MAOIs also have anti-anxiety effects. However, they are more likely to cause adverse effects than TCAs and SSRIs and carry warnings on suicide in a box. In addition to the MAOIs listed below, your doctor might prescribe other medications or treatments that can help you manage your symptoms. For example, a beta-blocker (such as propranolol) is usually prescribed to alleviate physical symptoms of anxiety. Your doctor may recommend a relaxation method or other home remedies to alleviate your symptoms. The first MAOI, Iproniazid, was discovered during tuberculosis research in 1952. It was soon discovered to have mood-elevating qualities and is considered to be the first antidepressant medication. MAOIs should be used only when other antidepressants are not working, because they can cause serious side-effects that require immediate medical attention. It could trigger a serious reaction that results in high blood pressure if you are taking an MAOI when you eat 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. This severe reaction can cause an intense headache nausea, vomiting, and a rapid heartbeat. MAOIs may also interact with other medications and result in severe side effects such as suicidal thoughts or behavior. Your doctor will discuss your dietary needs with you prior to prescribing MAOIs. They will advise you to stay clear of eating foods that contain tyramine if you are taking the drug. He or she may also give you the list of foods that is safe to eat when taking MAOIs. Using this food guide can help you avoid MAOI-related side effects.