Finding the Best Medication For Anxiety Disorder
Anxiety disorders are a common mental illness. Many people take medication to treat their anxiety symptoms. There are a variety of medication, including SSRIs and benzodiazepines.
SSRIs (such as sertraline, fluoxetine, and citalopram) and SNRIs (such as venlafaxine) are typically the first medications doctors prescribe for anxiety. They affect neurotransmitters in your brain that influence mood.
Benzodiazepines
Feeling stressed or nervous occasionally is normal, but if those feelings become persistent or affect your daily routine it could be the right the time to seek assistance. A medication can be a useful tool to reduce anxiety symptoms in conjunction with therapy or lifestyle changes. There is no one-size fits all medication for anxiety. The best option for you will be based on your diagnosis and various other factors.
Benzodiazepines, such as Klonopin (clonazepam), Xanax(alprazolam) or Valium(diazepam), are fast-acting drugs that can provide relief from anxiety symptoms such as a rapid heart rate, sweating or voice trembling. Benzodiazepines work by increasing activity at the receptors for neurotransmitter Gamma-aminobutyric Acid (GABA) which slows brain and central nervous system activity, and also 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 administered 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 increase the brain's levels of serotonin which is a neurotransmitter and hormone that plays a part in mood, along with norepinephrine which is another neurotransmitter that is involved in the body's fight-or-flight response. However, some people do not respond well to these medications and can experience side effects like nausea or insomnia. In addition, physical dependence can develop on long-term SSRI treatment.
Some medications, such as propranolol or atenolol, can be prescribed off-label for treating anxiety, particularly when used in conjunction with antidepressants. These beta blockers are typically used to lower blood pressure and heart problems However, they can also assist in controlling the anxiety and fear that are associated with phobias or panic disorders.
Some anxiety symptoms can be eased by allergy medications such as Vistaril. It blocks certain histamine receptors in the brain, which reduces excessive activity in the nervous system. This creates an easing effect. It is prescribed to treat anxiety, particularly prior to surgery. It's not the most preferred option, but it can be an option for those who cannot take benzodiazepines due to the possibility of addiction or misuse.
Antidepressants
Anxiety is a fairly common mental health condition, and it is extremely treatable. Often, lifestyle changes are the first step. However, medications can also assist in relieving symptoms. There are many medicines that can aid in the treatment of anxiety. The one that is most effective will depend on the person's diagnosis and medical background as well as their treatment goals. In general, the latest SSRI antidepressants are the most effective treatment for anxiety, however older tricyclic antidepressants can also perform.
Benzodiazepines can be another option and they act very quickly to relieve panic attacks and other signs. They work by affecting receptors for gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) which slows down the brain when it's overexcited and help to promote a sense calm. They are typically used as a bridge to other medications, and they can cause dependence, which is why they shouldn't be used for a long term. Benzodiazepines can be found in the form of Klonopin (clonazepam), and Xanax, (alprazolam).
Beta-blockers are a different type of antidepressant that can be used to treat anxiety. They block the actions of adrenaline and the hormone noradrenaline. These hormones play an important role in the body's fight or flight response. They also boost levels of serotonin, which is a chemical messenger that influences mood. Propranolol and atenolol as well as other beta-blockers are prescribed by physicians to treat anxiety.
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. These drugs can take several weeks to start working, so it's important to not get discouraged if you don't notice results immediately. Sertraline (Zoloft), fluoxetine(Prozac) and citalopram(Lexapro) are common SSRIs prescribed to alleviate anxiety.
In some instances the use of antidepressants can cause anxiety to worsen Therefore, they're prescribed as an alternative. In some cases, antidepressants are the only treatment option, particularly when they are used in conjunction with therapy. A psychiatrist is trained extensively in the management of psychiatric medications and is the most qualified person to discuss this. When deciding on the right medication, they'll consider the medical history of the patient the diagnosis, goals, and tolerance for medications. Psychologists can also schedule regular appointments and follow-ups in order to measure the effectiveness of the medication as well as monitor any side effects.
Hydroxyzine
Medicines are the foundation of anxiety disorder treatment however they're not the only way to control your symptoms. A psychiatrist can employ a variety of techniques, including psychotherapy to help you deal with your anxiety. If medication is needed, they will recommend an approach that combines different medications in the correct dosage to obtain the most effective results.
Psychologists can prescribe a range of anti-anxiety medications, including benzodiazepines or SSRIs. They may prescribe SNRIs, or atypical antidepressants. These medications can provide long-term relief or short-term relief from panic attacks and other serious symptoms.
Hydroxyzine, a antihistamine, can be used to relieve anxiety and tension. It does this by altering the levels of histamine and serotonin, which can change your mood. Hydroxyzine is not controlled substance and does not carry the same risks of addiction as other medications such as lorazepam or clonazepam. If you combine this medication with other drugs that can cause drowsiness such as sedatives or narcotics, adverse effects could be harmful.
A doctor can prescribe hydroxyzine as tablets, syrup, or suspension that should be taken three or four times per day. Follow the directions on the prescription and ask your physician or pharmacist to explain any aspect you don't understand. You shouldn't take the hydroxyzine when you are pregnant or nursing. Animal studies have proven the drug to cause harm to foetuses.
Psychiatrists often prescribe hydroxyzine in order to treat anxiety, a condition that causes feelings of nervousness and dread. It can also trigger heart palpitations and trembling. People who have breathing issues should not take hydroxyzine because it can dry out the mucus and make breathing difficult. Inform your doctor right away in case you are having trouble breathing. It is also recommended to be careful not to take hydroxyzine when drinking alcohol or with other medications that may cause sleepiness.
Buspirone
Feeling anxious from time to moment is normal, but anxiety that is unrelenting and interferes with your health and lifestyle should be addressed by an expert medical professional. Psychologists are specially trained to assist people suffering from anxiety disorders . They have a variety of tools at their disposal including medications, cognitive behavioral therapy and other treatments that are specialized.
Selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors, also known as SSRIs are usually the first medication a psychiatrist would recommend to a person suffering from anxiety. These drugs help regulate mood by boosting your body's serotonin levels. They also have a low dependence and abuse risk. They also work in symptom relief for the long term as well as a follow-up to other anxiety-relieving treatments.
Benzodiazepines, such as Klonopin (clonazepam), Xanax (alprazolam) and Valium (diazepam) are quick-acting drugs that provide instant relief from anxiety. They slow down the gamma aminobutyric (GABA) in your brain, allowing you to feel at peace. 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 which has also been proven to be a potent anxiolytic, although it's most often used as a second-line treatment. It comes as an oral tablet and has a lower risk than many other medications. However, it takes a few weeks of consistent usage to fully experience the effect, so it's important to adhere to your medication regimen.
In the end, it's your doctor's choice to prescribe the most effective anxiety medication for you. You should discuss your options with them and they'll be able to explain how each type of medication performs, what its side effects are, as well as if they have any other suggestions for treating your anxiety disorder. You can also take our short online test and be connected with a psychiatrist who is licensed to treat anxiety disorders.