Finding the Best Medication For Anxiety Disorder

Anxiety disorder is a very common mental illness. Many people take medication to control their anxiety symptoms. There are different types of medication, including SSRIs and benzodiazepines.

SSRIs like sertraline and fluoxetine and SNRIs like venlafaxine, are usually the first medications that doctors prescribe to treat anxiety. They alter neurotransmitters within your brain that affect mood.

Benzodiazepines

It is normal to feel anxious or stressed occasionally. However, if these feelings persist or interfere with daily life it is possible to seek out professional assistance. Medication can be a valuable instrument to ease anxiety symptoms, along with therapy or lifestyle changes. There isn’t a one-size-fits all medication for anxiety. The best option for you depends on your diagnosis and other factors.

Benzodiazepines, such as Klonopin (clonazepam), Xanax(alprazolam) or Valium(diazepam), are quick-acting medications that help with anxiety-related symptoms such as a rapid heart rate, sweating, or trembling voices. Benzodiazepines slow down brain activity and induce relaxation by increasing the activity of the receptors for gamma aminobutyric acid. They are typically prescribed for generalized anxiety disorder as well as panic disorder and social anxiety disorder. They can be addictive, and should only be administered under medical supervision.

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 hormone and neurotransmitter that is involved in mood, and also norepinephrine, another neurotransmitter that is involved in the body’s fight-orflight response. However certain people don’t react well to these medications, and can experience side effects like nausea or insomnia. In addition, physical dependence can develop on long-term SSRI treatment.

Other medications, including propranolol (Inderal) and atenolol (Tenormin), are sometimes used off-label for anxiety particularly when used in conjunction with antidepressants. These beta blockers are employed to reduce anxiety and phobias.

Allergy medications like Vistaril (hydroxyzine) is also used to treat anxiety-related symptoms. It blocks certain histamine-receptors in the brain, which reduces excessive activity in the nervous system. This results in an overall calmness. It is prescribed for anxiety, especially before surgery. While not a first-choice medication however, it can be a good option for people who cannot take benzodiazepines because of the potential for addiction and misuse.

Antidepressants

Anxiety is a fairly common mental health condition, and it’s extremely treatable. Most often, changes in lifestyle are the first step. However, medications can also assist in relieving symptoms. There are a variety of medications that can ease anxiety. The one that is most efficient will depend on the patient’s diagnosis and medical history as well as their treatment goals. In general, SSRI antidepressants, which are more recent, are the first choice of medication for anxiety. However, tricyclics older than that can also be effective.

Benzodiazepines can be used to relieve anxiety and other symptoms. They work quickly and provide relief. They work by targeting receptors for the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) which slows down the brain’s response to stress and create a feeling of calm. They are usually employed as a calming medication for transitions 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 form of antidepressant is beta-blockers, can also be used to treat anxiety by inhibiting the actions of adrenaline and noradrenaline hormones that are involved in the body’s fight or flight response. They also boost levels of serotonin, which is a chemical messenger that influences mood. Atenolol, propranolol, and other beta-blockers are prescribed by physicians to combat 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 get discouraged if you don’t notice immediate results. Sertraline (Zoloft), fluoxetine(Prozac) and citalopram(Lexapro) are common SSRIs prescribed to combat anxiety.

Antidepressants are used as a last option in certain situations because they can worsen anxiety. But in others it’s the only option that is effective, especially when it’s paired with therapy. A psychiatrist is the best person to discuss this issue, as they are trained extensively in the management of psychiatric medications. They will take into consideration the patient’s medical history, goals and tolerance to medication when deciding on the best option. Psychologists are also able to offer regular appointments and follow-ups to evaluate the effectiveness of medication as well as monitor the effects of medication.

Hydroxyzine

The most important aspect of treatment for anxiety disorders is medication, but it’s not the only option to treat symptoms. A psychiatrist will employ various techniques, including psychotherapy to help you deal with your anxiety. If medication is required for treatment, they’ll recommend a treatment plan combining several different drugs with the right dosage to achieve the best results.

Psychiatrists can prescribe a variety of anti-anxiety medication that include benzodiazepines as well as SSRIs. They can prescribe SNRIs or atypical antidepressants. These medications can be utilized for long-term solutions or to provide short-term relief from panic attacks and other serious symptoms.

Hydroxyzine is an antihistamine that can be used to ease anxiety and tension. It works by changing the body’s level of serotonin and histamine, which can alter your mood. Hydroxyzine, which isn’t a controlled substance, does not carry the same addiction risk like other drugs such as lorazepam or clonazepam. If you combine this medication with other medications that cause drowsiness, such as sedatives or narcotics, negative effects can be hazardous.

A doctor may prescribe hydroxyzine as an oral tablet or syrup to take three or four times per day. Follow the instructions on the prescription and consult your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part that you aren’t understanding. You shouldn’t use hydroxyzine while pregnant or breastfeeding. Animal studies have proven that the drug can cause harm to foetuses.

panic anxiety disorder prescribe hydroxyzine for anxiety, a condition that can cause anxiety and feelings of fear and nervousness. It can also lead to heart palpitations and shaking. People who have breathing problems should not take hydroxyzine since it can dry out the mucus in the lungs and make breathing difficult. If you have a breathing problem, you should tell your doctor right away. Also, be careful not to take hydroxyzine when drinking alcohol or with other medications that can cause sleepiness.

panic anxiety disorder

Feeling anxious from time to moment is normal, but anxiety that is constant and causes disruption to your health and life is best addressed by a medical professional. Psychiatrists are specially trained to help people with anxiety problems. They have a range of tools available, including medications, cognitive behavior therapy, and other treatment options that are specialized.

SSRIs are the first medication that a psychiatrist prescribes to someone suffering from anxiety. These medications help regulate mood by boosting your body’s serotonin levels. They also have a low dependence and abuse risk. They are also effective in symptom relief for the long term and as a follow-up treatment to other treatments for anxiety.

Benzodiazepines such as Klonopin (clonazepam), Xanax (alprazolam) and Valium (diazepam) are quick-acting drugs that can provide immediate anxiety relief. They reduce the gamma aminobutyric (GABA) in your brain and help you feel calm. They do not have the same adverse effects as SSRIs however they can be addictive and habit-forming.

Buspirone is an antidepressant. It has also been proven to be an effective anxiolytic. It is most commonly employed in second-line treatments. It’s available as a tablet for oral consumption, and has a lower chance of side effects than other medication. It can take some time to see full effects, therefore it is important to stick to your prescribed schedule.

It is ultimately your doctor’s decision to prescribe the best anxiety medication for you. You should 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 whether they have any other suggestions to treat your anxiety disorder. You can also take an online assessment to be matched with a psychiatrist licensed to treat anxiety disorders.