Finding the Best Medication For Anxiety Disorder
Anxiety disorder is a common mental disorder. Many people take medication to manage their anxiety symptoms. There are a variety of medications including SSRIs such as benzodiazepines, SSRIs 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 alter neurotransmitters within your brain that influence mood.
Benzodiazepines
Being anxious or stressed from time to time is normal, but if these feelings persist or interfere with your daily life, it may be time to seek help. Along with psychotherapy and lifestyle changes, medication can be a powerful tool in reducing anxiety symptoms. However, there is no one-size-fits-all medication for anxiety. The best option for you depends on your specific diagnosis and other aspects.
Benzodiazepines, such as Klonopin (clonazepam), Xanax(alprazolam) or Valium(diazepam) are fast-acting drugs that can alleviate anxiety-related symptoms such as rapid heart rate, sweating or voice trembling. Benzodiazepines increase activity at the receptors for the neurotransmitter Gamma-aminobutyric Acid (GABA) which slows brain and central nervous system activity and promotes relaxation. They are frequently prescribed for generalized anxiety disorder as well as panic disorder and social anxiety disorder. 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 medications boost the levels of brain serotonin (a neurotransmitter and hormone that influences mood) and norepinephrine (another neurotransmitter associated with the body's fight or flight response). However, some people do not respond well to these medications and can experience side effects like insomnia or nausea. 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 especially when combined with antidepressants. Beta blockers can be used to manage anxiety and phobias.
The use of allergy medications like Vistaril (hydroxyzine) is also used to relieve some anxiety-related symptoms. It blocks certain histamine-receptors in the brain, which reduces excessive activity in the nervous system. This creates a calming affect. It is typically used on an as-needed basis to treat anxiety, especially prior to surgery. It's not the first choice of medication but it could be a good alternative for those who are unable to use benzodiazepines due risk of dependence or misuse.
Antidepressants
Anxiety is a fairly common mental health issue, and it's highly treatable. The first step is usually lifestyle changes, but sometimes medication can help with symptoms too. There are many medicines that can aid in the treatment of anxiety. The one that is most efficient will depend on the person's diagnosis and medical history as well as their treatment goals. In general, SSRI antidepressants, which are newer are the most popular choice of treatment for anxiety. However, older tricyclics can also be effective.
Benzodiazepines are also employed to ease panic attacks and other symptoms. They are fast-acting and offer relief. They target the receptors for Gamma-aminobutyric Acid (GABA), slowing down the brain's response to stress and promoting a feeling of calm. They are usually used to bridge other medications, and they can cause dependence, which is why they shouldn't be used long term. Examples of benzodiazepines are Klonopin (clonazepam) and Xanax (alprazolam).
Beta-blockers are another type of antidepressant that can be used to treat anxiety. They inhibit the action of adrenaline and the hormone noradrenaline. These hormones play a part in the body's fight-or-flight response. They also boost serotonin levels - the chemical messenger that influences mood. Examples of beta-blockers doctors prescribe for anxiety include propranolol as well as 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. It may take several weeks for these drugs to begin working. Don't be discouraged if the results aren't immediately apparent. The most commonly used SSRIs used to treat anxiety include sertraline (Zoloft) as well as fluoxetine (Prozac) and citalopram (Lexapro).
Antidepressants are used as a last resort in some cases because they can worsen anxiety. But in others it's the only treatment that works, especially when it's paired with therapy. A psychiatrist has extensive training in managing psychiatric medication and is the most qualified person to discuss this. When choosing the best medication, they'll consider a person's medical history the diagnosis, goals, and tolerance to medications. Psychiatrists also offer regular appointments and follow-ups in order to measure the effectiveness of the medication, and examine 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 a variety tools, like psychotherapy. If medication is needed for treatment, they'll recommend a treatment plan combining several different drugs with the right dosage to obtain the most effective results.
Psychiatrists have a variety of options in the field of anti-anxiety medications, including traditional options like benzodiazepines as well as SSRIs. They can also prescribe additional medication, like atypical antidepressants and SNRIs. These medications may provide long-term relief, or short-term relief from panic attacks and other serious symptoms.
Hydroxyzine, a antihistamine, can be used to ease tension and anxiety. It does this by altering the levels of histamine and serotonin which can alter your mood. Hydroxyzine is not a controlled substance and does not carry the risk of addiction as other medications like lorazepam (Ativan) and alprazolam (Xanax) or clonazepam (Klonopin), do. If you mix this medication with other medications that cause drowsiness, such as sedatives or narcotics, the adverse effects could be harmful.
A doctor may prescribe hydroxyzine as an oral tablet or syrup which should be taken three to four times per day. Follow the instructions on the prescription and ask your pharmacist or doctor to explain any section you aren't sure about. If you're pregnant or breastfeeding, you shouldn't be taking hydroxyzine because animal studies have proven that the drug may cause harm to fetuses.
Psychologists often prescribe hydroxyzine to treat anxiety which can cause feelings of dread and nervousness. It can also lead to heart palpitations and trembling. People with breathing problems should not take hydroxyzine as it may dry the mucus in the lung and make breathing difficult. Inform your doctor right away in case you are having trouble breathing. It is also recommended to avoid taking hydroxyzine in conjunction with alcohol or other medications that may cause drowsiness.
Buspirone
Feeling anxious from time to the moment is normal, however anxiety that is persistent and disrupts your health and life is best addressed by a medical professional. Psychologists are specially trained to assist sufferers of anxiety disorders . They have a variety of tools available to them such as medications, cognitive behavioral therapy and other treatments that are specialized.
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors(SSRIs), or SSRIs are typically the first treatment that a psychiatrist would recommend to a person who suffers from anxiety. These medications increase your body's natural levels of serotonin to help regulate mood, and they come with a low risk of causing substance abuse and addiction. They work well for long-term reduction of symptoms and as a follow up to other treatments for anxiety.
Benzodiazepines such as Klonopin (clonazepam), Xanax (alprazolam), and Valium (diazepam) are rapid-acting medicines that provide instant anxiety relief. They work by affecting gamma aminobutyric acid, or GABA, in your brain slowing it down and helping you feel more at peace. In contrast to SSRIs they don't come with as many possible negative effects, but they are still addictive and can be habit-forming.
Buspirone is an antidepressant. It has also been shown as an effective anxiolytic. It is typically utilized in second-line treatment. It's an oral tablet and has a lower risk of side effects risk than other medicines. However, it takes several weeks of consistent use to see the full effect, so it's vital to stick to your medication schedule.
It's up to your doctor to decide which medication is the best one for you. You should discuss your options with them and they can explain how each type of medication performs, what its adverse effects are, and whether they have any other recommendations for treating your anxiety disorder. You can also take our short online assessment and get connected with a psychiatrist who is licensed to treat anxiety disorders.