Types of Anxiety Medication

When it comes to treating various anxiety disorders, often anxiety medication will be used along with therapy. Here are a few examples of the different types of anxiety medication, and when they are most commonly used.

It is important to note that anxiety medications do not cure any disorder. What the medication does accomplish is to help contain the symptoms of the anxiety while treatment is taking place. Psychiatrists usually proscribe the medication, either at the primary health professional, or as part of a team consulting with a psychologist. The level or amount of dosage may change during the course of the therapy, based on how the patient is responding to treatment.

For many anxieties, some sort of antidepressant is used as part of the treatment program. Generally, it takes some time for the antidepressant to begin to work, usually four to six weeks. For this reason, it is vital that the patient not give up hope and stop taking the medication before it has a chance to begin working.

Among the newer antidepressants are those that are classed as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. These help to regulate the amount of serotonin in the brain, which impacts the way brain cells communicate with one another. Some of the more common antidepressants of this type are fluxetine, sertraline and escitalopram. These have proven to be effective with persons who are experiencing panic attacks along with bouts of depression, as well as helping with social phobia.

Trycyclics are another form of anxiety medication that has been around for quite some time. Usually, these are administered in low dosages at first, with the dosage being incrementally increased as the therapy continues. There are some side effects associated with the use of trycyclics, such as dizziness, dry mouth, and weight gain. However, adjusting the dosage usually can limit the side effects. Clomipramine is an example of a trycyclic that is effective with treating several anxiety disorders, especially obsessive compulsive disorder.

Perhaps the oldest forms of anxiety medication still in use would be the monoamine oxidase inhibitors. One of the down sides of these medications is that there are far more dietary proscriptions during use than with the newer drugs. They also tend to interact in a negative manner with a number of over the counter pain relievers, as well as some herbal supplements.

When beginning a treatment involving any anxiety medication, it is important to make sure you keep your health care professional aware of how the medication is affecting you. Your course of treatment may have to be revised from time to time, based on your reaction. Remember to keep on track with the medication and follow the instructions given by your therapist. In time, you will begin to see excellent results.