Finding the Best Medication For Anxiety Disorder
Anxiety disorder is a very common mental disorder. Many people take medication to manage their anxiety symptoms. There are various types of medications, including SSRIs and benzodiazepines.
SSRIs (such as sertraline, fluoxetine, and citalopram) and SNRIs (such as venlafaxine) are often the first drugs doctors prescribe for anxiety. They impact neurotransmitters in your brain that influence mood.
Benzodiazepines
It is normal to feel stressed or anxious at times. However when these feelings last or affect your daily routine it is possible to seek out professional assistance. Along with psychotherapy and lifestyle changes, medications can be an effective method of reducing the symptoms of anxiety. But, there isn't a one-size-fits all medication for anxiety. The best solution for you is based on your condition and other aspects.
panic anxiety disorder as Klonopin (clonazepam), Xanax (alprazolam) and Valium (diazepam) are rapid-acting medicines that can offer immediate relief from symptoms of anxiety such as a fast heart rate, sweating or trembling voice. Benzodiazepines increase activity at the receptors for neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) which reduces brain and central nervous system activity, and also promotes relaxation. They are prescribed for anxiety disorders like panic disorder, social anxiety and generalized anxiety. However, they are addictive and should be taken under medical supervision for short-term use.
Antidepressants are also commonly used to treat anxiety disorders, especially selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). These drugs increase brain levels of serotonin (a neurotransmitter and hormone that influences mood), as well as norepinephrine (another neurotransmitter that is associated with the body's fight or flight response). Some people aren't able to tolerate these drugs and might experience insomnia or nausea. In addition, physical dependence can develop on long-term SSRI treatment.
Other medications, including propranolol (Inderal) and atenolol (Tenormin) are often prescribed for anxiety off-label especially when combined with antidepressants. These beta blockers are employed to reduce anxiety and phobias.
Allergy medications, such as Vistaril (hydroxyzine) and others, are used to alleviate some anxiety-related symptoms. It blocks certain histamine receptors within the brain, which reduces excessive activity in the central nervous system, leading to a calming effect. It is prescribed for anxiety, particularly before surgery. While it isn't a first-choice drug, it is often an option for patients who are unable to take benzodiazepines due to of the risk of addiction and misuse.
Antidepressants
Anxiety is among the most frequent mental health disorders and it is easily treated. Often, lifestyle changes are the first step. However, medication can also help to relieve symptoms. There are a myriad of treatments available to treat anxiety and the one that works best will depend on a person's diagnosis, medical history, and treatment goals. In general, newer SSRI antidepressants are the first-choice treatment for anxiety, however older tricyclic antidepressants might perform.
Benzodiazepines can be used to treat anxiety and other symptoms. They work quickly and provide relief. They target receptors for Gamma-aminobutyric Acid (GABA) which slows down the brain's activity when it is overexcited and promoting a feeling of calm. They are usually used as a type of medication that is used for transitional purposes, and can be habit-forming. Therefore, they should not be used long-term. Examples of benzodiazepines include Klonopin (clonazepam) and Xanax (alprazolam).
Another form of antidepressant is beta-blockers, are used to treat anxiety through reducing the actions of noradrenaline and adrenaline hormones that play a role in the body's fight or flight reaction. They also increase the levels of serotonin, a chemical signal that influences mood. Examples of beta-blockers that 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 medications can take a few weeks to start working and it's important to not get discouraged if you don't see immediate results. The most commonly used SSRIs that are prescribed for anxiety include sertraline (Zoloft) as well as fluoxetine (Prozac) and citalopram (Lexapro).
Antidepressants are prescribed only as a last option in some instances due to the fact that they can cause anxiety. But in others, it's the only treatment that works, particularly when used in conjunction with therapy. A psychiatrist is the most qualified person to discuss this issue, as they have extensive training in the field of psychiatric medication management. They'll keep in mind the patient's medical history, goals and tolerance to medications when deciding on the most effective options. Psychologists can also schedule regular appointments and follow-ups to monitor the effectiveness of the medication, and examine any side effects.
Hydroxyzine
The primary treatment method for anxiety disorders is medication, but it's not the only method to treat symptoms. A psychiatrist can use various tools, including psychotherapy to help you deal with your anxiety. If medication is required, they'll recommend a treatment plan that incorporates a variety of dosages and drugs to achieve the most effective results.
Psychiatrists may prescribe a variety of anti-anxiety medicines, including benzodiazepines or SSRIs. They may also prescribe SNRIs, or atypical Antidepressants. These medications can be used for long-term solutions or to provide short-term relief from panic attacks or other severe symptoms.
Hydroxyzine, an antihistamine, can be used to relieve tension and anxiety. It does this by altering the levels of serotonin and histamine which can alter your mood. Hydroxyzine is not a controlled drug and does not pose the danger of addiction like other drugs like lorazepam (Ativan), alprazolam (Xanax) or clonazepam (Klonopin) are known to do. However, if you mix this medication with other drugs that cause drowsiness (such as sedatives or narcotic pain relievers) the side effects could be hazardous.
A doctor might prescribe hydroxyzine in the form of an oral tablet or syrup that should be taken three or every day for a total of four doses. It is important to adhere to the directions on the prescription, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any aspect you don't understand. If you're pregnant or nursing, you shouldn't take the hydroxyzine drug, as animal studies have proven that the drug can cause harm to fetuses.
Psychiatrists prescribe hydroxyzine to treat anxiety, an illness that can trigger feelings of anxiety and nervousness. It can also cause heart palpitations and trembling. People with breathing issues should not take hydroxyzine as it can dry out mucus and make breathing difficult. Contact your doctor immediately in case you are having trouble breathing. Avoid taking hydroxyzine with alcohol or other drugs that could cause drowsiness.
Buspirone
It is normal to be anxious at times. However, if your anxiety is persistent and affecting your health and life, you should consult an expert in medical care. Psychologists are specially trained to assist sufferers of anxiety disorders. They have a number of tools available to them including medications, cognitive behavioral therapy, and other specialized treatments.
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs, are generally the first treatment that a psychiatrist will recommend to someone who suffers from anxiety. They aid in regulating mood by increasing your body's serotonin levels. They also have a low addiction and risk of abuse. They work well in reducing symptoms over the long term and as a follow up to other anxiety-relieving therapies.
Benzodiazepines, like Klonopin (clonazepam), Xanax (alprazolam) and Valium (diazepam) are rapid-acting medicines that provide instant relief from anxiety. They work by affecting gamma-aminobutyric acid, or GABA, in your brain, slowing it down and helping you to feel calm. In contrast to SSRIs they don't come with as many potential side effects, but they are still addictive and can become habit-forming.
Buspirone is an antidepressant. It has also been demonstrated to be an effective anxiolytic. It is commonly employed in second-line treatments. It is available as an oral tablet and has a lower risk of side effects risk than most other medications. However, it takes a few weeks of consistent usage to fully experience the effect, so it's vital to stick with your medication schedule.
It's ultimately the responsibility of your physician to decide which anxiety medication is right for you. It is important to discuss your options with them, and they will be able to explain how each type of medication works, what the side effects are, as well as should they have any other recommendations to treat your anxiety disorder. You can also take our brief online assessment and get matched with a psychiatrist who is licensed to treat anxiety disorders.