Anxiety Disorders Medications: The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly Medications For Anxiety Disorders

A variety of medications can be utilized to treat anxiety disorders. Examples include the benzodiazepines (benzodiazepine), beta blockers (beta blockers) and antidepressants. Speak to your doctor about what medications are right for you.

SSRIs and SNRIs increase the levels of serotonin in the brain and block its reuptake (a hormone or neurotransmitter). This helps reduce anxiety.

Antidepressants

If anxiety is causing significant problems in your life If you are experiencing serious problems, a psychiatrist (medical doctor who specializes on mental health) might prescribe medication. Antidepressants are used to treat anxiety disorders. Consult your physician regarding possible adverse effects, risks, and benefits of each type.

The first option for treating anxiety is selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) which include fluoxetine, paroxetine, citalopram and sertraline. They have a positive risk/benefit ratio with few side effects. Buspirone is also an effective antidepressant. SSRIs can cause anxiolytic reactions within two to four weeks, however the side effects are typically less than with other antidepressants.

Tricyclic antidepressants have more dangerous adverse effects, and are not as frequently prescribed. However, certain medications in this class, such as amitriptyline (Elavil), nortriptyline (Pamelor) and Clomipramine (Cadorax) can be effective in treating anxiety. MAOIs (reversible inhibitors of monoamine oxidese A) are rarely prescribed due to their severe adverse effects. However, they may help with certain types of anxiety. Examples include phenelzine (Nardil), and tranylcypromine (Anxivan).

Antidepressants are not the only drugs to treat anxiety. Beta-blockers and other medications are also available to treat anxiety. Benzodiazepines can provide immediate relief, but can pose significant risks. They should only be used for short durations.

Psychotherapy is more effective at treating anxiety disorders than drugs. Your psychiatrist or psychologist can teach you techniques that can alleviate your symptoms and help you find ways to cope with these issues. Some strategies you can use to help control your anxiety include keeping a journal and practicing relaxation techniques, breathing exercises, making adjustments to your diet, getting more exercise and joining a support group for anxiety.

You can make a difference by adhering to the treatment plan and going to sessions regularly. Even if you are having an awful day Try not to give up. If you are taking medication, make sure to keep your appointments with your doctor and don't stop taking your medication.

Beta-blockers

Beta blockers are an option for those who have physical symptoms of anxiety, such as sweaty hands, or tightness in the chest. These drugs are typically prescribed for heart problems but have been found to decrease anxiety-related symptoms. They block receptors in the body that adrenaline (the hormone that causes stress) binds to, hindering it from increasing blood pressure and heart rate. Beta blockers, unlike antidepressants, don't affect serotonin however they slow the heart rate. This can reduce the physical symptoms of anxiety. Propranolol (also known as atenolol), Proprano Inderal are a few examples. Hydroxyzine (Atarax and Vistaril) is another option to treat phobias and generalized anxiety disorder. These drugs are usually taken on a need-to-know basis and are not prescribed for long-term use.

Anyone who is prescribed these medicines should discuss any possible side effects with their physician. If you are pregnant or nursing, it is important to consult your doctor before taking these medications. Certain beta-blockers can cause dangerously low blood pressure levels, and could make it worse Raynaud syndrome symptoms for those who have it.

A psychiatrist, a medical professional who is skilled in mental health, is trained to assess and treat anxiety. They can diagnose anxiety disorders and prescribe medication along with other treatments. A psychiatrist can be particularly helpful for people suffering from severe anxiety, who are unable to cope with medication and are ashamed of seeking treatment. A psychiatrist will look at a patient's medical history as well as their preferences and other factors to determine the most appropriate medication. They also keep track of the patient's progress and any side effects in the course of time. They can adjust dosages accordingly. They will also address any other issues that a patient might have, such as pregnancy or sexually transmitted disease. It is better to combine anxiety medication with psychotherapy or other treatment. Be aware that medications only dull or reduces anxiety and can make a patient dependent on it.

Psychotherapy

Treatment of anxiety disorders is possible using a variety of psychotherapy methods. Cognitive behavioral therapy is an essential component of any treatment program. Other types of therapy are interpersonal therapy, psychodynamic therapy and exposure therapy. All of these techniques have been proven to be effective in helping people learn to manage their anxieties.

Psychiatrists and psychologists at NYU Langone Psychiatry Associates and its Mood Disorders Consultation Service are specifically trained to treat anxiety disorders. They can recommend a mix of psychotherapy and medication to help you overcome your fears.

Anxiety can be debilitating and make daily tasks difficult to complete. It can also cause various physical issues like stomach upset, heart palpitations, insomnia, and trouble in concentrating. Your therapist will not only address the symptoms, but also help you deal with the challenges.

Antidepressants are the first option for treating anxiety disorders . Medications from the selective serotonin reuptake inhibit (SSRI) or serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibition (SNRI), which have less side-effects than other antidepressants, such as tricyclics are generally preferred. These medications, which take four to six weeks to reach their full effectiveness, are typically employed to treat depression that is not underlying as well.

Other medications that are prescribed to treat anxiety include the sedatives lorazepam (Ativan) and diazepam (Valium) that promote muscle relaxation. Benzodiazepines can be used to treat panic attacks and other symptoms, like shaking, nausea, sweating and breathing difficulties. In some cases doctors might prescribe an antihistamine such as hydroxyzine (Atarax or Vistaril) to treat allergies that may cause anxiety symptoms.

Talk therapy, also known as psychotherapy, is a vital component of any anxiety-treatment plan. Your therapist can help you identify the negative distortions that are in your anxiety and replace them with calm, realistic statements. Your therapist will also help you to face the situations that cause anxiety instead of avoiding them to build confidence in your ability to handle these challenges.

Other medicines

Anxiety disorder is a widespread condition that offers many treatment options. Some people may find that medication is a good choice to help alleviate anxiety symptoms, along with other techniques and therapy. Some types of medications used to combat anxiety include antidepressants, beta blockers, benzodiazepines and buspirone.

Antidepressants can be prescribed as the first-line treatment for anxiety disorders that are generalized. The medications from the selective serotonin reuptake inhibit (SSRI) or serotonin-norepinephrine inhibition (SNRI) such as Zoloft, Lexapro, Cymbalta and Effexor and XR are typically prescribed. These medications increase the levels of certain chemicals in your brain that can improve mood and ease anxiety.

Diazepam, a benzodiazepine, can be used to treat extreme anxiety or panic attacks. They work within minutes to reduce the reaction to stress by increasing the calming effects of certain chemicals in the nervous system and brain. They can also help reduce the rate of heartbeat, sweating, and trembling. Benzodiazepines are addictive and should not be used for more than 4 weeks at a time.

Beta blockers, like propranolol (Inderal) and atenolol (Tenormin) can be beneficial for those suffering from a anxiety disorder or panic disorder by assisting in controlling their heart rate. They also block the effects of norepinephrine - an hormone that plays a role in the fight or flight response. These medications can be utilized in a long-term way to reduce anxiety.

Buspirone, a naturally occurring substance that is found in the body and is closely related to GABA, helps relax the nervous system. It is typically prescribed for phobias or a sensitivity to noise and light. It is commonly used to help with sleep issues.


Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy is a different effective treatment for anxiety disorders. Cognitive behavioral therapy is generally considered the most effective form of psychotherapy for anxiety disorders. This type of therapy helps you to alter your thinking patterns and develop new strategies to deal with anxiety. It also includes exposure therapy, which is where you are exposed to objects or situations that cause anxiety and build confidence in your ability to overcome them.