Anxiety Treatments Medication
Anxiety can affect your everyday activities, so it's crucial to seek help if you have extreme anxiety. Changes in your lifestyle, such as decreasing your stress levels and taking part in regular physical exercise, are among the treatment options. Your doctor may also suggest psychological therapy.
The FDA has approved a variety of medications for anxiety disorders, such as SSRIs and SNRIs, which affect serotonin, the neurotransmitter that controls our brains. Anticonvulsants, like pregabalin, can reduce anxiety as well by altering the GABA receptor.
Benzodiazepines
Benzodiazepines are drugs that work on the nervous system to create the sensation of calming. They work by increasing the effects of a neurotransmitter in the brain known as gamma aminobutyric acids (GABA). GABA reduces the function of nerves in the brain and spinal cord and, consequently, helps reduce anxiety.
Benzodiazepines can relieve anxiety symptoms almost instantly unlike antidepressants, which can take weeks to work. They are high-risk substances for abuse and dependency. The body gets used to benzodiazepines once they are used regularly. anxiety treatment at home can cause physical dependence. The use of benzodiazepines is a successful treatment if other methods don't work or are not available.
It is important to consult your physician prior to taking benzodiazepines. They can assist you in determining the root of your anxiety, and also discuss other treatments that may be more suitable. For example the use of talking therapies like cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and exposure therapy can help address the root of your anxiety and help you develop strategies for coping.
Benzodiazepines aren't usually the first in the treatment of anxiety disorders as they can have dangerous effects when paired with other substances or alcohol. They are also highly addictive and carry a significant risk of overdose. The first benzodiazepines were introduced in the 1950s, with chlordiazepoxide (Librium, Limbitrol) followed by diazepam (Valium) and lorazepam (Ativan). All of these medications carry the black-box warning that states they could cause life-threatening or serious side effects, such as severe sleepiness and breathing problems.
SSRIs
SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) are a class of antidepressant drugs, and they're the first choice for many with anxiety. These meds boost levels of certain chemical messengers in the brain, including serotonin and norepinephrine. They also help regulate other essential chemicals, including those that control sleep and mood and lower the levels of stress hormones within your body. The most commonly prescribed SSRI for anxiety is fluoxetine, better known under the brand name Prozac. Other SSRIs are Lexapro Zoloft and Paxil. These SNRIs include Effexor XR Cymbalta and Pristiq.
Experts aren't quite sure what SSRIs do to treat anxiety, but they do know that the meds enhance the brain's function. They increase BDNF (brain-derived Neurotrophic Factor) levels, increase the number of the glial cells (brain cells that support, nourish and protect your neuronal cells) and increase serotonin levels. The exact mechanism behind this action isn't completely understood however it could involve the combination of several factors.
SSRIs like other types of medications, can take up to a month before they start working. They require regular treatments to keep their benefits. They can have adverse effects, such as nausea and diarrhea. They can also result in low sodium levels in some people, and they can affect libido in some men. Your doctor will determine the length of time you'll need to take them, depending on your symptoms and the other treatments you're using. They may recommend that you keep taking them for a period of 6 to 12 months or help you to reduce or end the medication. They may also suggest other treatments such as psychotherapy, herbal remedies and supplements to combat anxiety-related symptoms. For example, Vistaril can be used for itching, and chamomile to help you sleep.
Beta-blockers
Beta-blockers (also called beta-adrenergic blocks) block adrenaline's binding to your heart's receptors. They relax your heart and lowers your blood pressure. They are prescribed for anxiety and may be an an alternative to traditional medications for psychiatric disorders that can cause side effects.
Beta-blockers may help reduce physical symptoms of anxiety but they don't address the mental causes of stress. Typically, they are used to manage specific situations that cause anxiety such as public speaking and flying. They may be used in combination with therapy to treat the root of the anxiety disorder or on their own as a long-term daily medication.
Beta blockers can cause a range of side effects due to their way of working, which includes hypotension, bradycardia, and other conditions. You might also feel shaky or sweaty. Some people with COPD (chronic obstruction of the lungs) or diabetes should not take them.
Despite their negative effects Beta blockers are widely used and researched. They have been on the market for decades and are considered safe for a majority of adults. In comparison, they are relatively affordable and easily accessible. For many, the side effects are worth it for their effectiveness.
Beta-blockers are a great option for mild to moderate anxiety. They are more effective than benzodiazepines that are the best choice for people with severe or life-threatening anxiety disorders. They will not fix the underlying problem and are best used to ease anxiety in the short term, like before an important event like the flight or speech. They can help you sleep better, and they can control your blood sugar.
Monoamine oxidase inhibitors
Monoamine Oxase inhibitors (MAOIs) block the enzyme responsible for breaking down monoamine neurotransmitters. They increase the availability of serotonin and other neurotransmitters like melatonin and epinephrine for transmission by stopping their breakdown in neurons. They are primarily known as effective antidepressants and possess some effectiveness in treating anxiety disorders. They can be used as a stand-alone or in combination with other medication. They can also be utilized to treat Parkinson's disease and other conditions. Eugenol is an essential oil, is found in the buds, leaves, and stems of clove (Syzygium Aromaticum) and the cinnamon bark. Eugenol has been found to inhibit MAOI in a test tube, and could interact with these drugs.
MAOIs can have serious adverse effects and aren't often the first drug doctors prescribe for depression or anxiety. Usually, they are reserved for those who are unable to respond to other medications. They can also be used to manage a range of other diseases, such as Fibromyalgia and Parkinson's disease. They can lead to low blood pressure when standing in a sitting or lying position, which is called orthostatic hypotension.
MAOIs are commonly used to treat anxiety disorders as well as atypical depression and tranylcypromine. Phenelzine has been studied in a small way in panic disorder and is the drug of choice for people suffering from atypical depression, whereas tranylcypromine has been praised for its positive adverse effects. These drugs aren't as potent as SSRIs however they can be helpful in treating certain types anxiety and depression disorders.
The older MAOIs may not be as safe as the newer Reversible MAOIs, such as Moclobemide and selegiline. They are also more effective than the older MAOIs in boosting the levels of monoamines implicated in depressive disorders. They are less likely to trigger hypertension however, they do are at risk of causing dependence on drugs.
Buspirone
Combining psychological therapy with medication is the most effective way to manage anxiety. Certain medications can ease symptoms, but they should only be used under the supervision of a doctor. There are a variety of medications for anxiety, and they work differently in each person. Discuss with your doctor about the symptoms you are experiencing and he will prescribe the right medication for you.
Buspirone is an FDA-approved anxiety drug, works by altering the neurotransmitters serotonin and dopamine. It can reduce anxiety and mood symptoms without the feeling of sedation. It is less likely to become addictive than other sedatives such as benzodiazepines. This makes it a great option for people looking to reduce their anxiety but don't wish to use drugs such as Xanax.
SSRIs or SNRIs are usually the first option for treating generalized anxiety disorder. These antidepressants can help regulate mood and increase levels of serotonin. They are typically used in conjunction with anxiety medicines like benzodiazepines. However, they are generally not prescribed for long periods since they can be addicting and have adverse effects like drowsiness.
Psychological treatments for GAD that include medication have proven to be effective on a short-term basis and can improve the results over time. These include cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) as well as exposure therapy, as well as art or creative therapies. Psychological therapy can help people discover ways to better manage their anxiety and depression. This will allow them to live a more full life and manage symptoms. Additionally, many of these treatments are now accessible online and are covered by insurance. For example, Brightside is an online therapy service that offers a range of treatments for depression and anxiety including CBT.