The following is a brief introduction to the topic:
Anxiety affects millions of individuals worldwide. Anxiety can take many forms. It may manifest as social anxiety disorder, generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder or specific phobias. Anxiety is a natural response to stress or perceived threats. However, excessive anxiety or chronic anxiety can have a significant impact on an individual’s life. Prescription medications are an effective tool to manage anxiety when non-pharmacological treatment options like therapy, lifestyle change, and self-help techniques fail. This article examines the various types of medications prescribed to treat anxiety. It also discusses their mechanisms of actions, side effects and other important factors for those seeking relief from anxiety through medication.
Understanding Anxiety Disorders
Understanding anxiety disorders is important before deciding on prescription medication. Anxiety can be a healthy response to stress, and it can help us remain alert and focused in certain situations. When anxiety becomes excessive or persistent, and is disproportionate to the circumstances, it can cause significant distress in everyday life. Anxiety disorders can include:
GAD (Generalized Anxiety Disorder): GAD causes excessive worry and anxiety about daily life events. GAD can cause restlessness, fatigue and irritability. It may also lead to muscle tension, difficulty concentrating, and muscle tension.
Panic disorder: This condition is characterized by sudden, intense and recurring panic attacks. It can lead to a variety of physical and mental symptoms including palpitations, breathlessness, and an impending sense of doom.
Social Anxiety Disorder (also known as Social Phobia): This disorder is characterized by a fear of social situations. Social anxiety can cause people to feel self-conscious and avoid social situations.
Specific Phobias – Specific phobias can be characterized by an irrational fear of a specific object or situation, such as heights or spiders. Exposure to a phobic stimulus may trigger panic and extreme anxiety.
Post-Traumatic stress disorder (PTSD): PTSD is a response to a traumatic experience and is characterized with recurring nightmares and severe anxiety symptoms.
Prescription medications for anxiety
Prescription medication can be an important part of a treatment plan for anxiety disorders. This is especially true when other treatments and self-help techniques are not effective or sufficient. There are many different classes of medications that are commonly prescribed to treat anxiety. Each has its own unique mechanism of effect and side effects.
Selective Serotonin-Reuptake Inhibitors:
SSRIs, or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, are among the most prescribed medications for anxiety and depressive disorders. They increase the level of serotonin in the brain, which is a neurotransmitter. SSRIs are commonly prescribed for anxiety.
Sertraline (Zoloft),
Fluoxetine (Prozac)
Escitalopram (Lexapro)
These medications are used as the first line treatment for anxiety disorders such as generalized anxiety disorder. SSRIs are known to have fewer side-effects than older antidepressant drugs. Individual responses may vary, but common side effects include nausea, diarrhea and sexual dysfunction. It is important that you know that SSRIs can take up to several weeks to work and their full therapeutic effects may not be seen for 4-6 week.
Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs):
SNRIs, another antidepressant medication class, are used to treat anxiety disorders. They increase both the serotonin levels and the norepinephrine levels in the brain. Some of the most common SNRIs used to treat anxiety include:
Venlafaxine
Duloxetine (Cymbalta)
SNRIs may be prescribed when SSRIs fail to provide adequate relief, or when depression is accompanied with anxiety. SNRIs may cause nausea, dizziness and increased blood pressure. Withdrawal symptoms can also occur when stopping the medication.
Benzodiazepines:
Benzodiazepines belong to a group of drugs that increase the activity of a brain neurotransmitter known as gamma aminobutyric (GABA), a substance with a calming affect. These medications can be used to relieve anxiety symptoms quickly and are commonly prescribed for short-term use or acute anxiety attacks. Some common benzodiazepines include:
Alprazolam (Xanax)
Lorazepam, also known as Ativan (Lorazepam),
Clonazepam (Klonopin)
Although benzodiazepines are effective, they can lead to dependence and addiction when used over an extended period of time. Use them with caution, and under the supervision of a medical professional. The long-term use is discouraged because of the potential for tolerance and withdrawal symptoms.
Buspirone:
Buspirone is used to treat generalized anxiety disorder. Buspirone, unlike benzodiazepines does not cause dependence or withdrawal symptoms. Although its exact mechanism of effect is still not understood, it is thought to interact with dopamine and serotonin receptors in brain. Buspirone can cause nausea, dizziness and restlessness.
Beta-Blockers:
Beta-blockers can be used to treat heart problems and high blood pressure. They are prescribed to treat physical symptoms of anxiety such as rapid pulse, trembling and sweating. Propranolol and atenolol are two beta-blockers commonly prescribed for anxiety.
Atypical Antipsychotics
Atypical antipsychotics like aripiprazole or quetiapine may be prescribed in conjunction with other treatments to treat severe anxiety, or as a strategy for augmentation when the traditional treatments fail.
The Right Medication
The selection of medication to treat anxiety is influenced by several factors. These include the type of anxiety disorder that you have, the severity and duration of your symptoms, how well you respond to the medications, as well as any potential side effects. It is important to have a thorough mental health evaluation performed by a professional in order to determine the best treatment plan.
Some individuals will require a combination medication to treat both their anxiety and any depressive symptoms. When selecting a medication, healthcare providers also consider the individual’s medical background, any drug interactions and allergies.
Side Effects & Considerations
Consider the following factors before starting any medication prescribed for anxiety.
Side Effects: Every class of medicine has its own potential side effects. You should discuss them with your healthcare provider. In some cases, however, the side effects may be outweighed by the benefits.
Onset of action: Different medications work at different rates. Some may take several weeks before they become effective while others, such as benzodiazepines are more rapid. It is important to know when the medication will take effect in order to manage expectations.
Tolerance and dependency: Certain medications, like benzodiazepines carry a risk for tolerance and dependence if used over a long period of time. These drugs must be taken as prescribed by a doctor and under their guidance.
Discontinuation of medication and withdrawal: Sudden discontinuation can cause withdrawal symptoms. When the time is right, it’s important to work with your healthcare provider to gradually taper off medication.
Monitoring and Adjustments – The effectiveness of medication can change over time. Regular follow-up visits with a healthcare professional are important to monitor progress and to make any necessary adjustments.
Comorbid Conditions. Individuals with anxiety disorder often have comorbid disorders, such as depression and substance abuse. To ensure comprehensive treatment, medication choices should be made with these conditions in mind.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Discussing medication options with your healthcare provider is important if you’re pregnant, plan to become pregnant or are currently nursing. Some medications can pose risks to a developing fetus.
Diet and Lifestyle: Certain medications can interact with certain substances or foods. Discussing dietary restrictions with your healthcare provider is essential.
Support and Psychotherapy: While medications can be effective in managing anxiety, they are most effective when combined with psychotherapy, counseling or other therapeutic interventions.
Individual Response: Different medications have different effects on individuals, so what works for someone else may not work for you. Finding the right dosage and medication may require some trial-and-error.
The conclusion of the article is:
Prescription medication for anxiety can help manage the symptoms of anxiety disorders. They should, however, be part of a comprehensive plan, which may include psychotherapy and lifestyle changes, as well as self-help techniques. A healthcare provider should discuss the choice of medication and any potential side effects with you. Anxiety can be treated effectively, and individuals who follow the right treatment plan will experience significant relief. To find the right treatment for you, it is important to get help, to stay informed and to work closely with your healthcare professional.
