Finding the Best Medication For Anxiety Disorder
Anxiety disorder is a very common mental disorder. Medications help many people manage their anxiety symptoms. There are different types of medication, including SSRIs and benzodiazepines.
SSRIs (such as sertraline, citlopram, fluoxetine, and sertraline) and SNRIs (such as venlafaxine) are usually the first prescriptions doctors give for anxiety. They affect neurotransmitters, which influence the mood in your brain.
Benzodiazepines
It is normal to feel stressed or anxious occasionally. However when these feelings last or cause problems in your daily life you might need to seek help from a professional. A medication can be a useful tool to minimize anxiety symptoms in conjunction with psychotherapy or lifestyle changes. But, there isn't a one-size-fits all medication for anxiety. The most effective option for you will depend on your diagnosis and other factors.
Benzodiazepines, such as Klonopin (clonazepam), Xanax (alprazolam) and Valium (diazepam) are rapid-acting medicines that can offer immediate relief from symptoms of anxiety such as a fast heart rate, sweating, or a trembling voice. Benzodiazepines work by increasing activity at the neurotransmitter receptors Gamma-aminobutyric Acid (GABA), which slows central nervous system activity and encourages relaxation. They are often prescribed for generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder and social anxiety disorders. They can be addictive, and should only be used under medical supervision.
Antidepressants are also commonly used to treat anxiety disorders, especially selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). These drugs boost brain levels of serotonin which is a neurotransmitter and hormone that plays a part in mood, as well as norepinephrine, another neurotransmitter involved in the body's fight-or-flight response. Some people aren't able to tolerate these medications and may experience nausea or insomnia. In addition, physical dependence can develop on long-term SSRI treatment.
Some medications, such as propranolol or atenolol, can be utilized off-label for treating anxiety, especially when coupled with antidepressants. Beta blockers are generally used to lower blood pressure and heart problems, but they can aid in reducing anxiety-related feelings that accompany phobias and anxiety disorders.
Certain anxiety-related symptoms can be eased by allergy medications such as Vistaril. It blocks certain histamine receptors in the brain to decrease excessive activity in the central nervous system, which can lead to a calming effect. It is prescribed as needed to treat anxiety, particularly prior to surgery. While it isn't a first-choice drug but it is an option for patients who are unable to take benzodiazepines due to of the potential for addiction and misuse.
Antidepressants
Anxiety is a very common mental health issue and it's extremely treatable. In most cases, lifestyle changes are the first step. However, medication can also aid in reducing symptoms. There are a variety of medications that can ease anxiety. The one that is most effective will depend on the patient's diagnosis and medical background as well as their treatment goals. In general, SSRI antidepressants, which are newer are the first choice of treatment for anxiety. However, older tricyclics can also be effective.
Benzodiazepines can also be used to treat anxiety attacks and other signs. They work quickly and provide relief. They work by targeting receptors for gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) which slows down the brain's response to stress and create a feeling of calm. They are typically used as a type of medication that is used for transitional purposes but they can also become habit-forming. Therefore they shouldn't be used long-term. Examples of benzodiazepines include Klonopin (clonazepam) and Xanax (alprazolam).
Another kind of antidepressant, beta-blockers, can also be used to treat anxiety by inhibiting the actions of adrenaline and noradrenaline hormones that are involved in the body's fight or flight response. They also boost serotonin levels, an important chemical messenger that affects mood. Examples of beta-blockers that doctors prescribe for anxiety are propranolol and atenolol.
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors are the medications doctors usually prescribe for anxiety, and they work by impacting the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. It may take several weeks for these medications to begin working. Don't get discouraged when results don't appear immediately. The most commonly used SSRIs used to treat anxiety include sertraline (Zoloft) and the fluoxetine (Prozac) and citalopram (Lexapro).
In some instances depression medications can exacerbate anxiety Therefore, they're prescribed as a last resort. But in others, it's the only treatment that works, particularly when it's paired with therapy. A psychiatrist has extensive training in psychiatric medications management and is the best person to discuss this. When choosing the best medication, they'll consider a person's medical history the diagnosis, goals, and tolerance to medication. Psychiatrists also offer regular appointments and follow-ups to monitor the effectiveness of the medication, and monitor any side effects.
Hydroxyzine
Medications are the cornerstone of anxiety disorder treatment however they're not the only way to control your symptoms. A psychiatrist can help you manage anxiety with different tools, like psychotherapy. If you require medication, they'll recommend a treatment plan that incorporates a variety of dosages and medications to get the most effective results.
Psychologists can prescribe a range of anti-anxiety medicines that include benzodiazepines as well as SSRIs. They may prescribe SNRIs or atypical antidepressants. These drugs can be used as a long-term solution, or to provide short-term relief from panic attacks or other severe symptoms.
Hydroxyzine is an antihistamine that can be used to relieve tension and anxiety. It does this by altering the levels of serotonin and histamine which can alter your mood. Hydroxyzine, which isn't a controlled substance, does not carry the same addiction risk as other medications such as lorazepam or clonazepam. If you mix this drug with other medications that cause drowsiness, such as narcotics or sedatives, the negative effects can be hazardous.
A doctor can prescribe hydroxyzine as tablets or syrup which should be taken three or every day for a total of four doses. It is essential to adhere to the directions on the prescription and ask your physician or pharmacist to explain any aspect you aren't understanding. If you're pregnant or breastfeeding it is advised not to take the hydroxyzine drug, as animal studies have shown that the drug may cause fetal harm.
Psychologists often prescribe hydroxyzine to treat anxiety and panic disorder, which causes feelings of anxiety and fear. It can also cause heart palpitations and shaking. People with breathing issues should not take hydroxyzine, since it may dry out mucus and make breathing difficult. Tell your doctor immediately when you are experiencing difficulty breathing. You should also avoid taking hydroxyzine in conjunction with alcohol or other medications that may cause drowsiness.
Buspirone
Feeling anxious from time to the moment is normal, however anxiety that is persistent and causes disruption to your life and health is best addressed by an expert medical professional. Psychiatrists are specially trained to help people suffering from anxiety problems. They have many tools available including medications as well as cognitive behavior therapy and other treatments that are tailored to the individual.
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors(SSRIs), or SSRIs are usually the first treatment that a psychiatrist will recommend to someone who suffers from anxiety. These medications increase your body's natural levels of serotonin to help regulate mood, and they have a low risk of substance abuse and addiction. They are beneficial for long-term symptom reduction and as a complement to other therapies for anxiety relief.
Benzodiazepines like Klonopin, Xanax, and Valium are fast-acting drugs that can help ease anxiety immediately. They work by affecting gamma-aminobutyric acid, or GABA which is the brain's chemical slowing it down, and helping you feel more calm. They don't have the same side effects as SSRIs but they can be addictive and can lead to a habit-forming.
Buspirone is an antidepressant. It has also been proven to be an effective anxiolytic. It is commonly utilized in second-line treatment. It's available as a tablet for oral consumption, and has a lower risk of side effects than most other medication. However, it takes a few weeks of consistent use to experience the full effects, so it's crucial to stick to your medication regimen.
It's up to your doctor to determine which medication for anxiety is right for you. It is important to discuss with your doctor about your options. They can explain the effects of each medication and any potential side effects. If they have any other suggestions for treating your anxiety disorder , they'll also be able to provide the recommendations. You can also complete a short online assessment to be matched with an experienced psychiatrist who is licensed to treat anxiety disorders.