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Finding the Best Medication For Anxiety Disorder
Anxiety disorder is a very common mental illness. Many people take medications to manage their anxiety symptoms. There are a variety of medication, including SSRIs such as benzodiazepines, SSRIs and others.
SSRIs, such as sertraline and fluoxetine, as well as SNRIs, such as venlafaxine are often the first drugs doctors prescribe to treat anxiety. They alter neurotransmitters that affect the mood of your brain.
Benzodiazepines
It is normal to feel stressed or anxious occasionally. However, if these feelings persist or interfere with daily life it is possible to seek professional help. Along with psychotherapy and lifestyle changes, medication can be an effective tool in reducing anxiety symptoms. But, there isn't a one-size-fits-all treatment for anxiety. The most effective option for you depends on your specific 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 like a rapid heart rate, sweating, or a the voice that is trembling. Benzodiazepines work by increasing activity at the receptors for neurotransmitter Gamma-aminobutyric Acid (GABA), which slows central nervous system activity and promotes relaxation. They are prescribed for anxiety disorders such as panic disorder, social anxiety and generalized anxiety. They can be addictive and should only be used under the supervision of a medical professional.
Antidepressants are also commonly used to treat anxiety disorders, especially selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). These medications boost the levels of brain serotonin (a neurotransmitter and hormone that influences mood) and norepinephrine (another neurotransmitter associated with the body's fight or flight response). However certain people don't react well to these medications and may experience adverse effects like nausea or insomnia. In addition, physical dependence can develop on long-term SSRI treatment.
Certain medications, like propranolol and atenolol, are utilized off-label to treat anxiety, especially when combined with antidepressants. Beta blockers are generally used to reduce high blood pressure and heart issues however they can also assist in controlling the feelings of apprehension that are associated with phobias or panic disorders.
The use of allergy medications, such as Vistaril (hydroxyzine), are also used to relieve some anxiety symptoms. It blocks certain histamine receptors within the brain, reducing activity in the nervous system. This creates a calming affect. It is prescribed for anxiety, especially before surgery. It's not the most preferred medication option but it can be an alternative for people who are not able to use benzodiazepines due risk of addiction or misuse.
Antidepressants
Anxiety is a fairly common mental health condition, and it's extremely treatable. The first step is usually lifestyle changes, however sometimes medication can alleviate symptoms as well. There are a variety of medications available to help with anxiety, and the one that works best will depend on a patient's diagnosis and medical history as well as treatment goals. In general, newer SSRI antidepressants are the first-choice treatment for anxiety, but older tricyclic antidepressants may also be effective.
Benzodiazepines can be used to treat anxiety attacks and other symptoms. They are quick to work and offer relief. They work by affecting receptors for the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) which slows down the brain's response to stress and create a feeling of calm. They are typically used to bridge other medicines, and they can cause dependence, which is why they shouldn't be used for a long term. Examples of benzodiazepines include Klonopin (clonazepam) and Xanax (alprazolam).
Beta-blockers are an additional kind of antidepressant which can be used to treat anxiety. They inhibit the action of adrenaline and the hormone noradrenaline. These hormones 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 atenolol and propranolol.
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 can take several weeks for these medications to start working. Don't get discouraged if the results aren't immediately apparent. The most common SSRIs used to treat anxiety include sertraline (Zoloft), the fluoxetine (Prozac), and citalopram (Lexapro).
Antidepressants are only prescribed as a last resort option in some instances due to the fact that they can cause anxiety. But in others it's the only option that works, particularly when it's paired with therapy. A psychiatrist is the best expert to discuss this, as they have extensive experience in psychiatric medication management. They will take into consideration the patient's medical history, goals, and tolerance to medication when deciding on the most effective options. Psychiatrists also offer regular appointments and follow-ups to monitor the effectiveness of the medication, and also monitor any side effects.
Hydroxyzine
Medicines are the foundation of anxiety disorder treatment, but they're not the only option to manage your symptoms. A psychiatrist will employ various tools, such as psychotherapy, to help you cope with your anxiety. If medication is required for treatment, they'll suggest a plan that incorporates a variety of dosages and drugs to achieve the best results.
Psychologists can prescribe a range of anti-anxiety medication, including benzodiazepines or SSRIs. They may also prescribe other treatments, including atypical antidepressants and SNRIs. These medications can provide long-term relief or short-term relief from panic attacks and other serious symptoms.
Hydroxyzine is an antihistamine that can be used to alleviate tension and anxiety. It works by changing the body's level of serotonin and histamine, which can alter your mood. Hydroxyzine is not a controlled substance and does not carry the same risks of addiction as other drugs like lorazepam or clonazepam. However, if you mix this medication in conjunction with other medications that induce an increase in drowsiness (such as narcotic pain relievers or sedatives), the side effects could be hazardous.
A doctor may prescribe hydroxyzine in the form of an oral tablet or syrup to take three or four times a day. It's important to adhere to the directions on the prescription and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you aren't understanding. If you're breastfeeding or pregnant it is advised not to take the hydroxyzine drug, as animal studies have proven that the drug may cause fetal harm.
Psychologists often prescribe hydroxyzine to treat anxiety, a condition that causes feelings of nervousness and dread. It can also trigger heart palpitations and trembling. People with breathing problems should not take hydroxyzine since it can dry the mucus in the lung and make breathing difficult. Contact your doctor immediately when you are experiencing difficulty breathing. Avoid taking hydroxyzine along with alcohol or other drugs that may cause sleepiness.
Buspirone
It is normal to feel anxious at times. However, if your anxiety is persistent and has a negative impact on your health and lifestyle, you should consult a medical professional. Psychiatrists are specially trained to assist those with separation anxiety disorder symptoms in adults issues. They have a number of tools available to them including medications, cognitive behavioral therapy, and other specialized treatments.
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors(SSRIs), also known as SSRIs, are generally the first treatment a psychiatrist would recommend to a person suffering from anxiety. These medications help regulate mood by boosting the levels of serotonin in your body. They also have a low addiction and abuse risk. They are effective for long-term symptom reduction and as a follow up to other treatments for Anxiety disorders list.
Benzodiazepines like Klonopin, Xanax, and Valium are quick-acting medications that can provide anxiety relief immediately. They work by targeting gamma-aminobutyric acid, or GABA, in your brain, slowing it down and assisting you feel calm. Unlike SSRIs they don't come with as many possible negative effects, but they are still addictive and could be habit-forming.
Buspirone is an antidepressant that has also been shown to be a powerful anxiolytic, but it's commonly used as a second-line treatment. It's an oral tablet and has a lower risk of side effects risk than many other medicines. It takes several weeks to experience the full effects, so it's important to stick to your prescribed schedule.
It is ultimately your doctor's decision to prescribe the most effective anxiety medication for you. It is important to discuss your options with them and they'll be able to explain how each type of medication is used, what the side effects are, and if they have any other recommendations for treating your anxiety disorder. You can also take a short online assessment to be matched with an experienced psychiatrist who is licensed to treat anxiety disorders.