anxiety medications

Knowing dread

Not everyone who experiences worry needs to take medication. Fear is a complicated emotion. If you have worry, your doctor or other healthcare professional needs to know exactly what it is you're going through.

Understanding what anxiety is, how it affects you, and if feasible changing your lifestyle are typically the first steps in treating it. Psychological treatment may also be employed by your physician or therapist. For cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), a form of psychological therapy that can assist you in changing your beliefs and behaviors, or for other forms of psychological therapies, your doctor might recommend that you see a psychologist.

Your doctor may also recommend medications if your anxiety is moderate to extreme or if psychological therapy does not help you feel better.

different types of anxiety medicines

Antidepressants and benzodiazepines are examples of medications for nervousness. These smooth out a chemical imbalance in the brain that leads to anxiety.

Antidepressants

Antidepressants come in a variety of forms, but the two that are most frequently used to address anxiety are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). These medications raise the amount of specific brain compounds that can influence your mood.

If a patient is handling their antidepressant well, it is usually recommended that they continue taking it for at least 12 months.

Benzodiazepines

Because they are addictive, benzodiazepines, also known as sedatives, are typically only used to treat anxiety for brief periods of time (less than a month, and the shorter, the safer). For sleep aid, benzodiazepines are occasionally recommended.

Important facts regarding anxiety medications

Treatment with medication for anxiety is frequently more time-consuming than treatment with medication for depression. The medication's effects might not be felt for several weeks. Studies have shown that counseling and anxiety medication work best together.

Some individuals may experience side effects from taking anxiety medications. These might include:

nausea headaches increased worry
difficulties with sexual desire or arousal,
sweating,
agitation,
weight increase, and
dry mouth

However, if you experience any side effects from anxiety, always let your doctor know as they might be able to assist.

When combined with certain other medicines, some antidepressants can have negative side effects. Before taking any additional medicines, such as sleeping aids and painkillers, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Take your anxiety medicine as directed. Without first contacting your doctor, never change your dose on your own. When taking anti-anxiety medicine, avoid drinking alcohol.

Ask your doctor about the following if you have any questions about taking medications to address anxiety: