Medications to Treat Anxiety

Therapy is the most effective method to manage anxiety, however sometimes a short-term course of medication may be required. Antidepressants and tranquilizers are among the medications that can be used to treat anxiety.

SSRI antidepressants, like citalopram (Celexa), the escitalopram (Lexapro) and sertraline (Zoloft) can improve the communication between nerve cells in the brain, and may reduce anxiety. SNRIs that target the chemical serotonin and norepinephrine may also be effective.

SSRIs

SSRIs are typically the first medications prescribed by doctors to treat anxiety disorders. They stop nerve cells in the brain from absorbing serotonin a chemical that plays a crucial role in mood regulation. The drugs take time to begin working, but most people feel better within about 4 to 6 weeks. SSRIs do not form an addiction and are not addicting, therefore they can continue to be used for a lengthy time.

Another type of antidepressant, SNRIs (serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors), also treats depression and anxiety. Examples of SNRIs include citalopram (Celexa) and the escitalopram (Lexapro) and fluoxetine (Prozac), paroxetine (Paxil) and sertraline (Zoloft). Tricyclic antidepressants, such as imipramine (Tofranil) and doxepine (Anxiety Disorder Stimulant) also treat anxiety and depression. Novel antidepressants, such as mirtazapine (Remeron) are also sometimes used to treat anxiety disorders.

Doctors aren't sure how to treat anxiety and stress (125.141.133.9) SSRIs or SNRIs function however they do are aware that they enhance the activity of certain chemical messengers referred to as neurotransmitters in the brain. They prevent the brain from reabsorbing these chemicals and allow them to bind with their receptors.

SSRIs are used to treat generalized anxiety disorder, GAD; obsessive-compulsive disorder, OCD; panic disorder/agoraphobia; and posttraumatic stress disorder, PTSD. They may also help with bulimia nervosa and binge eating disorder, but this is not as common.

Atypical antipsychotics can be prescribed to those suffering from anxiety who don't respond to SSRIs. Examples include quetiapine (Abilify) and Aripiprazole (Risperdal). These drugs reduce anxiety in people who have obsessive compulsive disorder. They are typically prescribed together with an antidepressant, and they have a lower risk of serious side effects compared to other types of antipsychotics.

Beta-blockers can also be prescribed for anxiety, and heart problems. Examples include propranolol (Inderal) and atenolol (Tenormin). They can reduce physical symptoms of anxiety in people who suffer from social anxiety disorder. They can also assist in reducing anxiety before or after surgery, and for some chronic pain conditions. Benzodiazepines like lorazepam (Ativan) can be used to control symptoms when other medicines aren't working. They can be addictive and habit-forming.

SNRIs

SNRIs are a different type of antidepressant medications often prescribed to combat anxiety. They function similarly to SSRIs however, they enhance the supply of serotonin and norepinephrine within the brain. In turn, they are often more effective in treating certain types of anxiety disorders, including panic disorder and social anxiety disorder. Like other medications, these work best when they are combined with talking therapy and other treatment strategies.

Unlike benzodiazepines SNRIs don't cause dependence or addiction for most people. However, some patients could experience withdrawal when discontinuing the medication after a long duration of use. Because of this, it is crucial to talk with your doctor before stopping any medication.

Serotonin and norepinephrine are neurotransmitters that are responsible for stress and mood responses. They play a key role in the fight or flight response that a lot of sufferers of anxiety and panic attacks treatment feel. By blocking the reuptake process, SNRIs block nerve cells from rapidly absorbing these neurotransmitters. This way, they keep these chemicals in the brain for longer, and, as a result they have the potential to improve mood and reduce anxiety levels or assist in the relief of symptoms of panic attacks.

Norepinephrine also plays a part in anxiety as it stimulates the Amygdala. This is a very deep and primitive part of the brain that is linked to anxiety-related behavior. SNRIs have been shown to reduce activity in this area of the brain, which could positively affect mood and anxiety and help to ease panic attacks.

These medicines are extremely helpful however, they may increase suicidal thinking in some people. Because of this, they are often only prescribed in higher doses for a brief period. They can also interact with other drugs and substances. If you are taking any other prescription or over-the counter medication, make sure to discuss this with your doctor and keep them updated on any underlying medical conditions you suffer from particularly heart issues and bleeding-related diseases. Also, be aware that some patients have reported adverse reactions to SNRIs, such as nausea and dry mouth.

Benzodiazepines

Benzos, also known as benzodiazepines commonly referred to as -- are quick-acting medications that help reduce anxiety and anxiety attack symptoms female treatment-related symptoms such as insomnia and muscle tension. Certain people suffering from anxiety disorders such as social anxiety or panic disorder may find them useful, especially if they have not responded to other treatments such as SSRIs and psychotherapy. They can be employed as a temporary remedy as you wait for your antidepressant medication kick in. The medications diazepam (Valium) and lorazepam (Ativan) are the most commonly used benzos, although other benzos include clonazepam (Rivotril) and temazepam (Restoril) and flurazepam (Dalmane).

Because they're fast-acting drugs, they generally start to work within 30 minutes. These medications don't last long in the body, therefore it is essential to take them regularly to reap the benefits. Benzos should not be used for prolonged periods of time as they can lead to physical dependence and addiction. Benzos are not recommended for those with anxiety disorders or depression, as they can increase the risk of developing those problems.

People who take benzos for long periods of time, often without medical supervision, may develop a condition known as sedative-use disorders, which can include withdrawal symptoms and addiction. This condition is uncommon in those who take benzos according to prescription. Benzo abuse is usually the result of other factors such as alcohol dependence and depression.

Taking benzodiazepines for the long-term may also lead to tolerance to their effects on sedation. Tolerance means that you need more medication in order to achieve the same results. This could cause respiratory depression, or even death. It is important to take benzodiazepines in the prescribed dosage and on a regular basis.

Other Medical Treatments

SSRIs and SNRIs will be the first medications that doctors prescribe to treat anxiety. They impact serotonin which affects mood, appetite, and sleep. It can take up to 12 weeks to begin working and may have side effects such as nausea or insomnia. SSRIs are also used to treat mental health disorders such as depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and panic disorder. Contrary to benzodiazepines, antidepressants do not cause physical dependence. However, they may cause withdrawal symptoms if they are abruptly stopped.

Sertraline (Zoloft), Prozac (Prozac) Prozac (Zoloft), and Celexa (Citalopram) are all medications in this class. They may be used on their own or in conjunction with therapy. Antidepressants are prescribed by psychologists, psychiatrists or family physicians who have specialized training in the management of medications.

Doctors can prescribe a class called monoamine-oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) as an antidepressant. These drugs inhibit the action of certain enzymes that break down chemicals, like serotonin and norepinephrine, and dopamine. MAOIs may take three or four weeks to work but they're not as fast-acting as SSRIs.

Clonidine is another drug that can be used to manage anxiety. It is often used to treat anxiety, but it is also utilized to control blood pressure. Its effectiveness is limited because of side effects like hypotension and sedation. Antihistamines like hydroxyzine may be prescribed by doctors to reduce anxiety and panic attacks. They can also reduce the effectiveness of benzodiazepines for certain patients.

Anxiety is usually treated by the combination of medication, psychotherapy and exercise. Engaging with a therapist who specializes in anxiety disorders is the most effective way to manage anxiety. They can help you identify the root causes of anxiety and recommend natural ways to treat anxiety attacks to manage it without medication, if needed. Other options for anxiety treatment that don't require medication include eye movement desensitization mindfulness meditation and yoga that is trauma-informed. Talk to your therapist about how to treat anxiety naturally to determine the best option for you. Psychiatrists have the training to assess your medical history, symptoms and create an appropriate treatment plan for anxiety that is appropriate for you. They will take into consideration your particular diagnosis, lifestyle, medical history and preferences when developing this plan, and will make adjustments as needed.