What Type of Medication Is Prescribed for Anxiety?
Anxiety affects 40 million adults in the United States each year. Seek help if you suffer from an anxiety disorder. New, effective therapies and medications for anxiety are available that will help you lead a healthier, anxiety-free life.-
Types
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Three types of medication are commonly prescribed for anxiety: antidepressants, anti-anxiety drugs and beta-blockers.
Functions
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Antidepressants help anxiety by altering the levels of serotonin in the brain (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors); preventing the brain from reusing serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine (tricyclic antidepressants); or preventing serotonin and norepinephrine from being absorbed by the brain (MAOIs).
Anti-anxiety medications increase a chemical in the brain that decreases brain activity, making you calmer.
Beta-blockers stop the physical symptoms of anxiety.
Time Frame
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Most anxiety medications begin working within three to six weeks.
Considerations
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Medication isn't a cure for anxiety, but it can help you control your symptoms. Take anxiety medications in combination with psychotherapy for the best results.
Warning
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Medications prescribed for anxiety may cause side effects, including drowsiness, headaches, dry mouth, insomnia, nausea, weight gain or loss, diarrhea, fatigue, elevated blood pressure, dizziness, constipation, impaired memory, slurred speech, blurred vision or difficulty breathing.
While most antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications are not addictive, benzodiazepines can be; check with your doctor for information on the risks associated with specific anxiety medications.
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