Finding the Best Medication For Anxiety Disorder
Anxiety is a well-known mental health issue. Many people take medication to treat their anxiety symptoms. There are a variety of medications including SSRIs, benzodiazepines and others.
SSRIs, such as sertraline and fluoxetine, as well as SNRIs, like venlafaxine are often the first drugs that doctors prescribe to treat anxiety. They affect neurotransmitters in your brain that influence mood.
Benzodiazepines
Feeling anxious or stressed from time to time is normal, but when those feelings become persistent or affect your daily routine, it may be time to seek help. Along with psychotherapy and lifestyle changes, medication can be a powerful tool to reduce anxiety symptoms. There isn't a one-size-fits-all medication for anxiety. The most effective solution for you is based on your diagnosis and other factors.
Benzodiazepines, such as Klonopin (clonazepam), Xanax(alprazolam) or Valium(diazepam) are quick-acting medications that alleviate anxiety-related symptoms like rapid heart rate, sweating or shaking voices. Benzodiazepines increase activity at the receptors for neurotransmitter Gamma-aminobutyric Acid (GABA) which slows central nervous system activity, and also promotes relaxation. They are prescribed for anxiety disorders like social anxiety, panic disorder, and generalized anxiety. However, they can also be 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 boost brain levels of serotonin which is a hormone and neurotransmitter that is involved in mood, and also norepinephrine, another neurotransmitter that is involved in the body's fight-orflight response. Some people are not able to tolerate these medications and may experience nausea or insomnia. In addition, physical dependence can develop on long-term SSRI treatment.
Some medications, such as propranolol and atenolol are prescribed off-label for treating anxiety, particularly when they are used in conjunction with antidepressants. These beta blockers are usually used to reduce high blood pressure and heart problems, but they can assist in controlling anxiety-related feelings that accompany some phobias or panic disorders.
Some anxiety symptoms can be relieved by medication for allergies like Vistaril. It blocks certain histamine receptors in the brain, reducing excessive activity in the nervous system. This leads to an overall calmness. It is often used on an as-needed basis for anxiety, particularly before surgery. While it isn't a first-choice drug however, it can be an option for those who are unable to take benzodiazepines due to of the risk of dependence and abuse.
Antidepressants
Anxiety is a fairly common mental health issue, and it's extremely treatable. Often, lifestyle changes are the first step. However, medication can also assist in relieving symptoms. There are many medications that can help with anxiety. The one that is most effective will depend on the patient's diagnosis and medical history as well as treatment goals. In general, newer SSRI antidepressants are the first-choice treatment for anxiety, but older tricyclic antidepressants can also perform.
Benzodiazepines can be another option and they can be a great help to provide relief for panic attacks and other signs. They target receptors for Gamma -aminobutyric Acid (GABA) which slows down the brain when overexcited and promoting a feeling of calm. They are generally used as a bridge to other medications, and they are prone to becoming habit-forming, and they shouldn't be taken long term. Examples of benzodiazepines are 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 are involved in the body's fight or flight response. They also boost the levels of serotonin - a chemical messenger which influences mood. Propranolol, atenolol, and other beta-blockers are prescribed by doctors to treat anxiety.
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. The drugs can take several weeks to start working, so it's important not to become discouraged if you don't see results right away. Sertraline (Zoloft), fluoxetine(Prozac) and citalopram(Lexapro) are common SSRIs used to treat anxiety.
Antidepressants are only prescribed as a last resort option in certain situations due to the fact that they can cause anxiety. In other cases it's the only treatment that is effective, especially when used in conjunction 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. When deciding on the right medication, they'll consider the medical history of the patient the diagnosis, goals, and tolerance to medication. Psychiatrists also offer regular appointments and follow-ups to monitor the effectiveness of the medication and examine any side effects.
Hydroxyzine
The most important aspect of treatment for anxiety disorders is medication but it's not the only option to control symptoms. A psychiatrist will employ many different techniques, including psychotherapy to help you deal with your anxiety. If medication is needed for treatment, they'll recommend a treatment plan combining several different drugs with the right dosage to achieve the best results.
Psychiatrists have a variety of options when it comes to anti-anxiety medications, including traditional options like benzodiazepines as well as SSRIs. They can prescribe SNRIs, or atypical antidepressants. These medications can be used for long-term solutions or to provide short-term relief from panic attacks and other serious symptoms.
Hydroxyzine is an antihistamine and can be used to ease tension and anxiety. It works by changing the levels of serotonin and histamine which can alter your mood. Hydroxyzine is not a controlled drug and doesn't carry the risk of addiction that other drugs, such as lorazepam (Ativan) or alprazolam (Xanax) or clonazepam (Klonopin) are known to do. If you mix this medication with other drugs which cause drowsiness, such as sedatives or narcotics, adverse effects could be harmful.
A doctor can prescribe hydroxyzine as tablets or syrup that should be taken three to every day for a total of four doses. Follow the directions on the prescription and ask your physician or pharmacist to explain any part that you aren't understanding. It is not recommended to take hydroxyzine while pregnant or nursing. Animal studies have shown the drug to cause harm to the fetuses.
Psychologists often prescribe hydroxyzine to treat anxiety, a condition that causes feelings of anxiety and fear. It can also cause heart palpitations or trembling. People who have breathing issues should not take hydroxyzine because it can dry out mucus and make breathing difficult. If you are experiencing breathing issue, you should inform your doctor immediately. Avoid taking hydroxyzine with alcohol or other drugs that could cause drowsiness.
Buspirone
It is normal to feel anxious at times. However should you experience anxiety that is persistent and has a negative impact on your health and life you must consult an expert medical professional. Psychiatrists are specially trained to help people suffering from anxiety disorders. They have a variety of tools at their disposal which include medications, cognitive behavior therapy, and other treatments that are tailored to the individual.
SSRIs are the first prescription a psychiatrist will prescribe to a person suffering from anxiety. anxiety disorder medication increase your body's natural serotonin levels to help regulate mood and they come with a low risk of causing substance abuse and addiction. They also work for both long-term symptom relief and as a follow-up to other treatments to reduce anxiety.
Benzodiazepines such as Klonopin, Xanax, and Valium are powerful drugs that can relieve anxiety immediately. They decrease the gamma aminobutyric (GABA) in your brain and can help you feel calm. They do not have the same side effects as SSRIs but they can be addictive and create a habit.
Buspirone, an antidepressant, has also been proven to be an effective anxiolytic. It is typically used in second-line treatments. It's an oral tablet and has a lower risk than other medicines. However, it takes a few weeks of regular use to experience the full effects, so it's crucial to stick to your medication regimen.
It's up to your doctor to decide which anxiety medication is right for you. You should discuss with your doctor your options. They can provide you with the effects of each medication and any adverse effects. If they have other recommendations to treat your anxiety, they'll also be able to provide the recommendations. You can also take our brief online test and be matched with a psychiatrist who is licensed to treat anxiety disorders.