Anxiety Treatments Medication
Anxiety can hinder your daily life, so it is important to seek out assistance if you are suffering from severe anxiety. Lifestyle changes, such as decreasing your stress levels and engaging in regular physical activity, are among the options for treatment. Your doctor may recommend psychological therapy.
The FDA has approved several medications for anxiety disorders, including SNRIs and SSRIs, which affect serotonin, the neurotransmitter that controls our brains. Anticonvulsants, such as pregabalin, can reduce anxiety as well by altering the GABA receptor.
Benzodiazepines
Benzodiazepines help to calm the nervous system by acting on it. They work by increasing effects of a neurotransmitter in the brain known as gamma aminobutyric acids (GABA). GABA inhibits the function of nerves in the brain and spinal cord and helps reduce anxiety.
Contrary to antidepressants, which may take weeks to begin working, benzodiazepines can be used to alleviate anxiety symptoms quickly. However, benzodiazepines carry high risks of abuse and dependence. The body develops a tolerance to benzodiazepines after regular use. This could lead to physical dependence. Despite the dangers, benzodiazepines can be a successful treatment for anxiety when other methods are not available or don't provide relief.
Although benzodiazepines are an effective medication for anxiety, it is important to consult with your doctor before using these medications. They will be able help you identify the root of your anxiety, and also discuss other options that may be more appropriate. Therapies that involve talking, such as cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) and exposure therapy, and more can help you to address the root cause of anxiety. They will also teach you strategies for coping.
Benzodiazepines aren't usually the first in the treatment of anxiety disorders since they can have dangerous effects when used in conjunction with other substances or alcohol. They can also be addictive and carry a high chance of overdose. The first benzodiazepines - chlordiazepoxide (Librium, Limbitrol), were introduced in 1950, followed by diazepam, (Valium), and lorazepam, (Ativan). All of these drugs have a black box warning that states that they can cause serious or life-threatening side effects, such as severe sleepiness, breathing problems, coma, and death when combined together with opioids or other illegal drugs.
SSRIs
SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) are a class of antidepressant drugs and are the first choice for many people suffering from anxiety. These drugs increase the levels of specific chemical messengers, including serotonin (and norepinephrine) in the brain. They also regulate other important chemicals like those that control sleep and mood and lower stress hormones in the body. The most frequently prescribed SSRI for anxiety is fluoxetine, which is better known under the brand name Prozac. Other SSRIs include Lexapro Zoloft and Paxil. The SNRIs are Effexor XR Cymbalta and Pristiq.
While experts aren't sure exactly how SSRIs work to combat anxiety however, they are aware that these medications enhance the way your brain functions. They boost BDNF (brain-derived Neurotrophic Factor) levels, boost the glial cells (brain cells that help nourish and protect your neuronal cells) and increase serotonin levels. It's not clear what the precise mechanism of action of these supplements is however it could be a combination of factors.
Like other types of medications, SSRIs can take 1 month to kick in and require regular treatment to keep the benefits. They may cause side effects such as nausea and diarrhea. Some men may notice a decline in libido or sodium levels. Your physician will decide the time frame you should use them, based on your symptoms and other treatments you're using. They might recommend that you continue to take the medication for six to 12 months or work with your to reduce or stop taking the medication. They may also suggest alternative treatments, including psychotherapy, herbs and supplements to treat anxiety-related issues such as Vistaril for itching, or the chamomile herb for sleep.
Beta-blockers
Beta-blockers, also called beta-adrenergic blocking agents, stop adrenaline from binding to the heart's receptors. This relaxes your heart and lowers your blood pressure. They are often prescribed for anxiety and can be an excellent alternative to conventional medication for psychiatric disorders that can have adverse effects.
Beta-blockers may reduce anxiety-related physical symptoms, but they do not tackle the psychological stress-related causes. They are usually used to manage specific situations that trigger anxiety, such as public speaking or flying. They can be combined in conjunction with therapy to treat anxiety disorders, or as a daily medication for long-term use.
Beta blockers can cause a variety of adverse reactions due to their method of working, including hypotension, bradycardia, and other conditions. You might also feel shaky or sweaty. Certain people suffering from asthma, COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), or diabetes should not take them.
Despite the negative side effects, beta blockers are still widely used and studied. They've been on the market for decades and are considered safe for a majority of adults. Comparatively, they are also fairly affordable and easily accessible. For many, the negative side effects are worth it in exchange for their effectiveness.
Taking beta-blockers as part of an treatment plan for anxiety is a good idea for those suffering from mild to moderate anxiety. They are more effective than benzodiazepines, which are better for those who suffer from severe or life-threatening anxiety disorders. However, they will not solve the root of the problem. They are best for people with short-term anxiety for instance, prior to a major event such as a speech or flight. In addition to reducing anxiety, they can help you sleep better and manage your blood sugar.
Monoamine oxidase inhibitors
Monoamine Oxase inhibitors (MAOIs) inhibit the enzyme that breaks down monoamine neurotransmitters. They stop the breakdown of serotonin melatonin, epinephrine, and norepinephrine within neurons and increase their availability for transmission. They are best known as effective antidepressants and possess some effectiveness in treating anxiety disorders. They can be taken as a stand-alone or in combination. They can also be used to treat Parkinson's and other ailments. Eugenol is an essential oil found in bud, leaf, and the stem of clove (Syzygium aromaticum) and in the bark of cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum). In a test tube, Eugenol was shown to inhibit MAOI function and could be negatively interacting with these medications.
MAOIs can have severe adverse effects, which is why they are not the primary medications that doctors recommend for treating depression or anxiety. Typically, they are prescribed for those who have failed to respond to other medications. They can also be used for various other conditions such as Parkinson's and fibromyalgia. They can lead to low blood pressure when standing in a sitting or lying position, which is called orthostatic hypotension.
The most common MAOIs are phenelzine isocarboxazid, and tranylcypromine. Phenelzine is used to treat atypical depression and panic disorder. It has a few studies on panic disorder. These medications aren't as powerful as SSRIs however they can be helpful in treating certain types anxiety and depression.
The more recent reversible MAOIs that are reversible like selegiline and moclobemide, are less harmful than the older irreversible MAOIs. They are more effective at increasing the levels of monoamines involved in depression disorders than the older MAOIs. They are less likely to cause a high blood pressure reaction but they are at risk of causing dependence on drugs.
Buspirone
For patients with anxiety, a combination of medication and psychological therapies is usually the best option for treatment. Medications can help ease symptoms however they should only be used under the supervision of a physician. There are a variety of medications for anxiety, and they can work differently in each person. To find the right medicine for you, speak to your doctor and discuss your symptoms.
Buspirone is an FDA-approved anxiety medication that works by altering the neurotransmitters serotonin as well as dopamine. This helps reduce mood and anxiety symptoms, but it doesn't cause sedation or impair cognitive functioning. It is also less likely to become habit-forming than other sedatives, such as benzodiazepines. This makes it a great choice for people who want to manage their anxiety but don't wish to use a drug like Xanax.
SSRIs or SNRIs are typically the first option for treating generalized anxiety disorder. These antidepressants can help regulate mood and increase levels of serotonin. These are often prescribed along with anxiety medications like benzodiazepines. However, they are usually not recommended for long durations because they can become addictive and may have side effects such as drowsiness.
Psychological treatments for GAD such as medication have shown to be effective in the short-term and can improve the results over time. These include cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), art or creative therapy, and exposure therapy. Psychological therapy can help patients discover ways to better manage their anxiety and depression. This can help them live a more fulfilling life and manage symptoms. A majority of these treatments are available online, and some may be covered by insurance. For instance, Brightside is an online therapy service that offers an array of depression and anxiety treatment s that include CBT.