Finding the Best Medication For Anxiety Disorder
Anxiety is a well-known mental health problem. The use of medications can help many people manage their anxiety symptoms. There are many kinds of medication, including SSRIs, benzodiazepines and others.
SSRIs such as sertraline and fluoxetine, as well as SNRIs like venlafaxine, are typically the first drugs that doctors prescribe to treat anxiety. They impact neurotransmitters in your brain, which influence mood.
Benzodiazepines
Being anxious or stressed at times is normal, but if those feelings become persistent or disrupt your daily routine it's the time to seek assistance. The use of medication can be a beneficial instrument to ease anxiety symptoms, along with lifestyle changes or psychotherapy. There is no one-size fits all treatment for anxiety. The most effective option for you will be based on your medical diagnosis and numerous other factors.
Benzodiazepines such as Klonopin (clonazepam), Xanax (alprazolam) and Valium (diazepam) are fast-acting medications that can provide immediate relief from anxiety symptoms such as a fast heart rate, sweating or shaking voice. Benzodiazepines work by increasing activity at the neurotransmitter receptors Gamma-aminobutyric Acid (GABA) which slows down brain and central nervous system activity, and also promotes relaxation. They are prescribed for anxiety disorders, such as 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 increase the brain's levels of serotonin, which is a neurotransmitter and hormone that is involved in mood, as well as norepinephrine, another neurotransmitter that is involved in the body's fight-orflight response. Some people aren't able to tolerate these drugs and may experience nausea or sleepiness. In addition, physical dependence can develop on long-term SSRI treatment.
Other medications, like propranolol (Inderal) and atenolol (Tenormin), are sometimes used off-label for anxiety, particularly in combination with antidepressants. Beta blockers are generally employed to decrease blood pressure and heart issues however they can also assist in controlling anxiety-related feelings that accompany phobias and panic disorders.
The use of allergy medications like Vistaril (hydroxyzine) is also used to treat anxiety symptoms. It blocks certain histamine receptors within the brain, which reduces excessive activity in the central nervous system, which can lead to a calming effect. It is prescribed as needed for anxiety, particularly before surgery. While not a first-choice medication but it is an option for those who are not able to take benzodiazepines because of the risk of dependence and abuse.
Antidepressants
Anxiety is a fairly common mental health issue, and it is extremely treatable. The first step is often lifestyle changes, however sometimes medication can ease symptoms too. There are a myriad of medications that can help treat anxiety, and the one that performs best will depend on the individual's diagnosis and medical history, as well as treatment goals. In general, newer SSRI antidepressants are the best treatment for anxiety, but older tricyclic antidepressants can also perform.
Benzodiazepines are a different option, and they act very quickly to ease anxiety attacks and other symptoms. They work by targeting receptors for the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) which slows down the brain's activity when it's stressed and promote a sense of calm. They are usually used as a transitional medication and may be habit-forming. Therefore they should not be used for a long time. Examples of benzodiazepines include Klonopin (clonazepam) and Xanax (alprazolam).
Another type of antidepressant, beta-blockers, can also be used to treat anxiety by reducing the actions of noradrenaline and adrenaline hormones, which are involved in the body's fight or flight reaction. They also increase serotonin levels, the chemical messenger that influences mood. Propranolol, atenolol, and other beta-blockers are prescribed by physicians 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. These drugs can take several weeks to begin working so it's important not to get discouraged if you don't get results right away. The most commonly used SSRIs used to treat anxiety include sertraline (Zoloft) as well as fluoxetine (Prozac) and citalopram (Lexapro).
Antidepressants are prescribed only as a last resort in some cases because they can worsen anxiety. In other cases it's the only treatment that works, especially when used in conjunction with therapy. A psychiatrist is the most qualified expert to discuss this because they have extensive experience in the field of psychiatric medication management. They will take into consideration the patient's medical history, goals, and tolerance to medication when deciding on the most effective options. Psychiatrists can also provide regular appointments and follow-ups in order to measure the effectiveness of the medication, and monitor any side effects.
Hydroxyzine
The cornerstone of treatment for anxiety disorders is medication but it's not the only method to control symptoms. A psychiatrist can assist you cope with anxiety using different methods, including psychotherapy. If medications are necessary for treatment, they'll suggest a program that blends several dosages and drugs to achieve the best results.
Psychiatrists have a variety of options when it comes to anti-anxiety medication which include traditional options such as benzodiazepines and SSRIs. They can also prescribe SNRIs, or atypical Antidepressants. These medications can be used as a long-term solution, or to provide short-term relief from panic attacks and other severe symptoms.
Hydroxyzine is an antihistamine which can be used to ease anxiety symptoms and tension. It is a drug that alters the levels of serotonin and histamine, which can change your mood. Hydroxyzine is not a controlled drug and does not pose the risk of addiction that other drugs, such as lorazepam (Ativan) and alprazolam (Xanax) or clonazepam (Klonopin) are known to do. However, if you combine this medication along with other drugs that cause drowsiness (such as narcotic pain relievers or sedatives) the side effects could be harmful.
A doctor might prescribe Hydroxyzine in the form of an oral tablet, syrup, or suspension that should be taken three to every day for a total of four doses. It is important to follow the directions on your prescription and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any aspect you aren't understanding. You shouldn't take hydroxyzine while pregnant or breastfeeding. Animal studies have proven the drug to cause harm to fetuses.
Psychologists prescribe hydroxyzine to treat anxiety, a condition that can cause feelings of nervousness and fear. It can also cause heart palpitations or trembling. People with breathing problems should not take hydroxyzine because it can dry the mucus in the lungs and cause breathing difficulties. Inform your doctor right away if you have a problem breathing. Also, be careful not to take hydroxyzine when drinking alcohol or with other drugs that can cause sleepiness.
Buspirone
Feeling anxious from time to moment is normal, but anxiety that is unrelenting and disrupts your life and health is best addressed by an expert medical professional. Psychiatrists are specially trained to help people suffering from anxiety disorders. They have a number of tools at their disposal including medications, cognitive behavioral therapy, and other specialized treatments.
SSRIs are the first drug that a psychiatrist prescribes to someone with anxiety. These drugs augment the body's serotonin levels to regulate mood and they come with a low risk of substance abuse and addiction. They are effective for long-term symptom reduction and as a complement to other therapies for anxiety relief.
Benzodiazepines, such as Klonopin (clonazepam), Xanax (alprazolam), and Valium (diazepam) are quick-acting drugs that can provide immediate relief from anxiety. They slow down the gamma aminobutyric (GABA) in your brain and can help you feel at peace. They do not have the same adverse effects as SSRIs but they can be addictive and create a habit.
Buspirone is an antidepressant. It has also been demonstrated to be an effective anxiolytic. It is commonly used in second-line treatments. It is available as an oral tablet and has a lower risk than other medications. However, it takes several weeks of regular usage to fully experience the effect, so it's important to stick with your prescribed schedule.
In the end, it's your doctor's responsibility to prescribe the most effective anxiety medication 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 adverse effects are, and if they have any other suggestions to treat your anxiety disorder. You can also take our quick online assessment and get matched with a psychiatrist who is licensed to treat anxiety disorders.