Anxiety medications are prescribed to reduce symptoms such as constant worry, sleep problems, and difficulty concentrating. They act on brain chemicals that influence mood, helping manage generalized anxiety disorder and panic attacks.
These medications are often considered when psychotherapy alone is not effective, or when anxiety is severe and leads to physical symptoms like rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, and excessive sweating. Psychiatrists may prescribe different options depending on the condition and intensity of symptoms.
In addition to anxiety medications, treatment can include therapy, lifestyle changes, and natural approaches such as exercise, balanced nutrition, and relaxation techniques. Combining these strategies supports long-term management and improves overall well-being.
Pharmacy medications
It is important to seek medical attention from a psychologist or psychiatrist if you notice any signs or symptoms of anxiety, so that these can be addressed. Treatment for anxiety usually starts with psychotherapy, and then medications are introduced. Many times, the psychiatrist may prescribe medications before starting therapy.
There are a variety of medications that can be used to treat anxiety. These can be obtained at the pharmacy with a prescription, and can vary depending on the anxiety disorder and the physical or mental symptoms present.
Some examples of pharmacy medications for anxiety include:
1. Antidepressants
Antidepressants are the most recommended medication for the long term treatment of anxiety. These help to regulate levels of neurotransmitters like serotonin, noradrenaline and dopamine, to help relieve anxiety symptoms.
These medications generally take 15 days to reach their maximum therapeutic effect. Therefore, their anxiolytic action usually starts off in a gradual way.
Some examples of antidepressants that the doctor may prescribe include imipramine, sertraline, paroxetine or venlafaxine.
2. Benzodiazepines
Benzodiazepines are anxiolytic medications that are prescribed for the short-term management of anxiety. They decrease brain function and cause a tranquilizing effect as well as drowsiness, all which help the patient to relax and reduce stress.
Normally, anxiolytics are indicated when beginning treatment for anxiety, together with depressants. These medications are not recommended for long-term use, as they can cause dependency and can reduce mental alertness and coordination.
Examples of benzodiazepines that are used to treat anxiety include lorazepam, alprazolam, bromazepam, diazepam or clonazepam.
3. Nonbenzodiazepines
Nonbenzodiazepines like buspirone, are anxiolytic medications under the azapirone class. They are not associated with a risk for abuse, dependency or abstinence, nor do they interact with hypnotic medications or alcohol. In addition, these substances do not cause any changes to alertness or psychomotor abilities.
Generally, these medications are prescribed for people with a history of medication abuse or abuse of other toxic substances.
4. Beta-blockers
Although these are less effective than the medications listed above, beta-blockers can be useful for people with very intense physical symptoms. These medications have a peripheral action, which means they reduce the perception of system symptoms like tremors and increased heart rate.
One advantage of beta-blockers when compared to benzodiazepines is the decreased risk for cognitive effects. Some examples that can be prescribed for anxiety include propranolol, oxprenolol and nadolol.
5. Anti-histamines
Although these are primarily used for the treatment of allergies, anti-histamines have shown that they can positively treat anxiety symptoms. The most used anti-histamine is hydroxyzine, an H1-antagonist. Nonetheless, more studies are needed on the effect of these medications on anxiety, which is why they are not recommended when starting treatment for anxiety.
Natural remedies for anxiety
Some natural options that may help relieve anxiety, in mild cases or as a complement to anxiety medication and medical treatment, include:
1. Natural remedies
Certain plants have calming and anti-anxiety properties and can be used as teas or juices, such as passion fruit juice, passionflower tea, or lemon balm tea. These contain active compounds that may help reduce anxiety.
2. Therapy
Therapy, particularly cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), is an effective approach for treating anxiety. It helps identify and change thought patterns that contribute to anxiety.
Therapy also provides practical strategies for coping with situations that trigger symptoms. It can be done individually or in a group setting.
3. Lifestyle changes
Lifestyle changes can help the body and mind respond better to stress and anxiety. These may include:
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Relaxation techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, yoga, and mindfulness, which calm the mind, ease physical tension, and improve focus on the present moment.
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Regular physical activity like walking, running, swimming, dancing, or strength training, which boost endorphin and serotonin levels, improving mood and overall well-being.
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Eating a balanced diet with foods rich in magnesium, omega-3, and tryptophan, such as bananas, sardines, and chocolate. These nutrients support serotonin production, which can help regulate anxiety.