Can Borderline Personality Disorder Be Treated
Can Borderline Personality Disorder Be Treated
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Are Anti-Anxiety Medications Safe?
Medications are an important part of treating anxiety, but there are also other methods. Therapy and lifestyle changes can be just as effective, and a lot safer.
However, all medications come with side effects and risks. So the question is, are anti-anxiety medications safe? The answer is yes – but only when taken properly.
Antidepressants
There are a variety of antidepressant medications that are prescribed to treat anxiety, and many work well for those who have a mild case. These drugs work by impacting the action and transmission of neurotransmitters in the brain, and each one has a different effect. They also impact varying symptoms and produce side effects that vary among individuals [1].
SSRIs, including escitalopram (Lexapro) and paroxetine (Paxil), are first-choice options. The SNRI venlafaxine extended-release (Effexor XR) is also often used to treat anxiety. These antidepressants take a few weeks to start working, so don’t get discouraged if you don’t see improvement right away.
Medications such as hydroxyzine (Viagra) and buspirone (Buspar) aren’t typically prescribed as first-choice treatments, but they may be effective in those who don’t respond to SSRIs or SNRIs or who can’t tolerate benzodiazepines. They can cause side effects like drowsiness, dry mouth, muscle stiffness or spasms and involuntary body movements, but they have the advantage of being less likely to cause addiction.
Benzodiazepines
Long-term use of benzodiazepines can lead to physical dependence and tolerance, meaning you need higher doses to get the same anxiety relief. These drugs also have serious side effects, including a pounding heart and sweating, which can cause seizures in some people. They're not recommended for long-term use unless there are severe, life-threatening situations.
These medications can also increase your risk of falls and injuries if you take them with other drugs that affect your balance, such as antidepressants or alcohol. They can slow your breathing, which can be dangerous if you have an underlying medical condition or are elderly.
Medications that decrease anxiety symptoms fall into the category of "anxiolytics." The name comes from two Greek roots: anxios, meaning "anxiety," and -lytic, which means "to loosen." Benzodiazepines, nonbenzodiazepines, and barbiturates are examples of anxiolytics. These drugs work by activating a process in your body that releases gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which helps reduce nervous system activity.
Antihistamines
The antihistamine hydroxyzine (Atarax, Vistaril) can help some people with anxiety. It blocks a chemical in the brain that makes you sleepy and boosts the effects of serotonin. It's the only antihistamine with this effect, though it also has anti-muscarinic, cholinergic and alpha-adrenergic effects. It's not considered a first-choice anxiety medication, but it may help some people who don't respond to SSRIs or SNRIs or can't tolerate benzodiazepines.
Doctors prescribe several medications to treat anxiety. Many are available in generic form, which cost less than brand-name drugs. Generics perform the same as brand-name medications and are approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Most pharmacies dispense generic drugs unless told not to by a doctor. If a medication doesn't work for you, your doctor may recommend psychological therapy like ptsd therapy cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). Medications that affect the way the brain works, including neuropeptides and alpha- and beta-adrenergic drugs, are under investigation as possible treatments for anxiety disorders.
Beta-blockers
Medications used to treat high blood pressure and heart conditions can also help with anxiety. They act quickly and are a safe option for those experiencing an anxiety crisis or attack.
Benzodiazepines like Xanax (alprazolam), Klonopin (clonazepam) and Valium (diazepam) can help reduce the symptoms of anxiety, including a rapid heart rate, trembling and sweaty palms. However, they can be addictive and aren't recommended for long-term use.
Beta blockers, such as propranolol (Inderal) and atenolol (Tenormin), work to reduce trembling and anxiety by blocking adrenaline, which can cause the "fight or flight" response. They can also be taken ahead of situations that trigger anxiety, such as public speaking or performances.
It's important to remember that anti-anxiety medications don't address the underlying causes of anxiety, such as a lack of self-esteem or unhealthy relationship. For that reason, therapy and self-help are just as crucial for anxiety relief as medication. To get started, take our free online assessment to be matched with a psychiatrist who can help.