Understanding that you’re not alone and that help is available can make all the difference when living with anxiety. Medication for anxiety, when used in conjunction with therapy, can play a transforming role in managing your anxiety symptoms. These drugs help balance brain chemicals often out-of-balance in people with anxiety disorders, promoting a sense of calmness and control.
With an array of anxiety medications available, each tailored to address specific types of anxiety disorders, you can work with your healthcare provider to find the optimal treatment plan for your situation. Remember, there’s no need to endure anxiety alone. Medication, in conjunction with other treatments, can help you regain control of your life.
Contact 855.494.0357 to learn more about medication management options.
What Is Medication for Anxiety?
Medication for anxiety, also known as anxiolytics, is prescribed to treat anxiety disorder symptoms. These drugs help decrease the intensity of physical symptoms such as racing heart and trembling and reduce unwanted thoughts and fears associated with anxiety.
Types of Anxiety Medication
There are several types of medication available depending on your diagnosis:
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)
SSRIs are generally prescribed for anxiety disorder, which is an umbrella term covering panic disorder, phobias, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. SSRIs work by affecting serotonin levels in the brain, which can help reduce anxiety symptoms, such as irritability and restlessness. This type of medication is usually taken once a day and may take several weeks to begin working effectively.
Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs)
Similar to SSRIs, SNRIs work by affecting serotonin levels in the brain but also boost norepinephrine levels. This type of medication tends to be prescribed for more severe cases of an anxiety disorder and generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and social anxiety disorder. SNRIs can help reduce physical symptoms associated with anxiety, such as sleeplessness and muscle tension.
Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs)
Tricyclic antidepressants work by affecting serotonin and norepinephrine levels in the brain. This medication can help address anxiety symptoms, such as rumination, restlessness, and difficulty sleeping. TCAs are usually prescribed for more severe cases of anxiety disorder and may take a few weeks to begin working effectively.
Benzodiazepines
Benzodiazepines, also known as “benzos,” are usually prescribed for short-term use and can help reduce symptoms of anxiety, such as panic attacks, insomnia, and muscle tension. It is important to note that these medications may be habit-forming, so it’s important to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully when taking them and not take more than is recommended.
Beta-Blockers
Beta-blockers are usually prescribed for physical symptoms of anxiety, such as trembling. These medications help reduce the physical effects of stress hormones on the body, which can help with panic attacks and social phobias.
When considering medication for anxiety, it is crucial to speak to your healthcare provider about all available options and find one that works best.
Benefits of Anxiety Medication
There are several potential benefits to using medication for anxiety. These medications can help reduce physical symptoms such as:
- Racing heart
- Trembling
- Insomnia
- Muscle tension
Medication for anxiety can also help reduce mental symptoms of anxiety, such as:
- Excessive worrying
- Unwanted thoughts and fears
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions.
Additionally, medication for anxiety can provide relief from the stress and strain of living with an anxiety disorder, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your life.
Anxiety medication is often used in conjunction with therapy and usually has the most effective results when used together. With the right treatment plan, medication for anxiety can help you reduce your symptoms and regain control of your life.
If you’re living with an anxiety disorder and want more information about managing it, contact 855.494.0357 today to learn more. We’ll work with you to find a solution that works best for your needs.
Contact Harmony Hills for More Information on Anxiety Medication
Managing your anxiety disorder can be difficult, but you don’t have to do it alone. At Harmony Hills, our team of experienced healthcare professionals is here for you every step of the way. Contact 855.494.0357 to speak with our team today.
