Finding the Best Medication For Anxiety Disorder
Anxiety disorder is a very common mental disorder. The use of medications can help many people manage their anxiety symptoms. There are many kinds of medication, including SSRIs as well as benzodiazepines, among others.
SSRIs such as sertraline and fluoxetine and SNRIs like venlafaxine, are typically the first medications that doctors prescribe to treat anxiety. They affect neurotransmitters in your brain that influence mood.
Benzodiazepines
It is normal to feel stressed or anxious occasionally. However when these feelings continue to linger or interfere with daily life you might need to seek help from a professional. Medication can be a valuable tool to minimize anxiety symptoms in conjunction with psychotherapy or lifestyle changes. There is no one-size-fits all medication for anxiety. The best choice for you will depend on your diagnosis and many other factors.
Benzodiazepines such as Klonopin (clonazepam), Xanax(alprazolam) or Valium(diazepam), are powerful drugs that help with anxiety-related symptoms such as a rapid heart rate, sweating or voice trembling. Benzodiazepines slow down brain activity and induce relaxation by enhancing the activity of the receptors for the gamma aminobutyric acid. They are prescribed for anxiety disorders, such as social anxiety, panic disorder, 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 boost brain levels of serotonin which is a hormone and neurotransmitter that plays a role in mood, as well as norepinephrine, another neurotransmitter in the body's fight-orflight response. Certain people are unable to tolerate these drugs and may experience nausea or sleepiness. In addition, physical dependence can develop on long-term SSRI treatment.
Some medications, such as propranolol and atenolol are prescribed off-label to treat anxiety especially when used in conjunction with antidepressants. These beta blockers are employed to reduce anxiety and fears.
Some anxiety symptoms can be relieved by medication for allergies like Vistaril. It blocks certain histamine receptors in the brain, which reduces the activity of the central nervous system, leading to a calming effect. It is prescribed for anxiety, particularly before surgery. Although it is not a medication of first choice however, it can be an option for patients who are not able to take benzodiazepines because of the danger of addiction and misuse.
Antidepressants
Anxiety is a very common mental health issue and it is extremely treatable. The first step is usually lifestyle changes, however sometimes medication can alleviate symptoms as well. There are a variety of medications that can help treat anxiety and the one that performs best will depend on the individual's diagnosis and medical history as well as treatment goals. In general, newer SSRI antidepressants are the first-choice treatment for anxiety, however older tricyclic antidepressants might work.
Benzodiazepines are another option, and they work quickly to ease panic attacks and other signs. They target receptors for gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which slow down the brain's response to stress and help to promote a sense calm. They are usually employed as a bridge to other medicines, and they are prone to becoming habit-forming, and they shouldn't be taken long in the long run. Examples of benzodiazepines are Klonopin (clonazepam) and Xanax (alprazolam).
Beta-blockers are another kind of antidepressant which can be used to treat anxiety. They inhibit the action of adrenaline and the hormone noradrenaline. These hormones play a part in the body's fight or flight response. They also increase serotonin levels - a chemical messenger which influences mood. Examples of beta-blockers doctors prescribe for anxiety include 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. These drugs can take several weeks to begin working, so it's important not to get discouraged if you don't notice results immediately. Common SSRIs used to treat anxiety include sertraline (Zoloft) as well as the fluoxetine (Prozac) and citalopram (Lexapro).
Antidepressants are only prescribed as a last resort option in some cases because they can cause anxiety to worsen. In certain instances it is the only treatment available, especially when combined with therapy. A psychiatrist is the most qualified person to discuss this issue since they have extensive training in the field of psychiatric medication management. They will keep in mind the patient's medical history, goals, and tolerance to medications when deciding on the best option. Psychiatrists can also provide regular appointments and follow-ups to track the effectiveness of the medication, as well as monitor any side effects.
Hydroxyzine
The most important aspect of treatment for anxiety disorders is medication but it's not the only option to treat symptoms. A psychiatrist can assist you manage anxiety with various tools, like psychotherapy. If you require medication 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 that include benzodiazepines as well as SSRIs. They may also prescribe SNRIs, or atypical Antidepressants. These medications 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 which can be used to alleviate tension and anxiety. It works by altering the body's levels of histamine and serotonin, which can change your mood. Hydroxyzine, which isn't a controlled drug it does not have the same risk of addiction as other drugs like lorazepam or clonazepam. If you mix this drug with other drugs that induce drowsiness, like sedatives or narcotics, the negative effects can be hazardous.
A doctor may prescribe hydroxyzine as tablets, syrup, or suspension which should be taken three to four times per day. Follow the instructions on the prescription and ask your pharmacist or doctor to explain any part that you aren't understanding. You shouldn't use hydroxyzine while pregnant or breastfeeding. Animal studies have proven that the drug can cause harm to foetuses.
Psychiatrists prescribe hydroxyzine for anxiety, which is a condition that can cause feelings of anxiety and nervousness. It can also trigger heart palpitations and trembling. Patients with breathing problems should not take hydroxyzine as it can dry out mucus and make breathing difficult. Tell your doctor immediately if you have a problem breathing. Avoid taking hydroxyzine in conjunction with alcohol or other drugs that may cause drowsiness.
Buspirone
Being anxious from time to moment is normal, but anxiety that is persistent and causes disruption to your health and life should be addressed by an expert medical professional. Psychologists have been specially trained to assist people with anxiety disorders. They have a variety of tools available to them including medications, cognitive behavior therapy and other treatments that are specialized.
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs are typically the first treatment that a psychiatrist will recommend to someone suffering from anxiety. These medications increase the body's serotonin levels to regulate mood and they are also low risk of substance abuse and addiction. They are effective for long-term symptom reduction and as a follow up to other treatments for anxiety.
Benzodiazepines such as Klonopin (clonazepam), Xanax (alprazolam) and Valium (diazepam) are quick-acting drugs that provide instant relief from anxiety. They work by affecting gamma aminobutyric acid, or GABA which is a neurochemical in your brain, slowing it down and assisting you to feel calm. As opposed to SSRIs they don't come with as many possible side effects, but they are still addictive and can become habit-forming.
Buspirone is an antidepressant that has also been proven to be an effective anxiolytic, although it's most often used as a last-line treatment. It's available in the form of an oral tablet and it has a lower risk of adverse effects than other medication. It can take some time to see full effects, so it is important to stick to your medication regimen.
Ultimately, it's your doctor's decision to prescribe the best anxiety medication for you. You should discuss with your doctor your options. They will be able to explain the effects of each medication and any adverse effects. If they have any other recommendations to treat your anxiety disorder , they will also be able to give the recommendations. You can also take our brief online assessment and get an appointment with a psychiatrist that is licensed to treat anxiety disorders.