What is the mechanism of action for anxiety medication?

What is Anxiety?

Anxiety is a natural response to potentially stressful or dangerous situations that heightens our awareness of our surroundings. Medications for anxiety are available in various forms and are used to alleviate symptoms associated with anxiety disorders. The most commonly prescribed types of anxiety medication include beta-blockers, antidepressants, and anti-anxiety medications.

These medications primarily work by affecting the balance of certain chemicals in the brain called neurotransmitters. Beta-blockers are typically used to address the physical symptoms that can occur during an anxiety attack. Anxiety disorders are linked to chemical imbalances in the brain involving neurotransmitters such as norepinephrine, serotonin, and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA).

What are the Treatments for Generalized Anxiety Disorder?

1) Medication for Anxiety

Medications are often prescribed alongside other therapies to help alleviate symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder. Some anxiety drugs are typically prescribed for short-term or as-needed use, but they can be habit-forming. Different anxiety disorders may require different medications, some aimed at treating the problem and others aimed at prevention.

2) Therapy for Anxiety

Psychotherapy, with or without medication, is often considered a crucial aspect of treating generalized anxiety disorder. Supportive-expressive therapy and psychodynamic psychotherapy focus on addressing anxiety as a result of underlying feelings about significant relationships. Cognitive behavioral therapy involves restructuring thought patterns that contribute to anxiety and learning relaxation techniques.

3) Lifestyle Modifications to Alleviate Anxiety

Daily exercise can be a beneficial treatment for anxiety symptoms. Engaging in activities such as brisk walks that you enjoy can help elevate your heart rate to the target range for your age for at least 25 minutes per session.

What are the top 3 anxiety medications?

Various medications are available for anxiety, each with different side effects and risks. Here are three commonly prescribed anxiety medications:

Alprazolam (Xanax): This benzodiazepine anxiolytic is available in tablet, extended-release tablet, orally disintegrating tablet, and concentrated liquid forms. The dosage varies, with the tablet taken once a day and the other forms taken 2 to 4 times a day.

Clonazepam (Klonopin): Another benzodiazepine anxiolytic, it is available as a regular tablet and an orally disintegrating tablet. It can be taken up to three times a day, with or without food.

Diazepam (Valium): This benzodiazepine anxiolytic comes in tablet, solution, and concentrated liquid forms. The dose can be added to a beverage or soft food, such as pudding, and should be consumed entirely.

Buspirone (Buspar): A non-benzodiazepine anxiolytic, it is typically taken twice a day. It should be taken consistently with or without food, and large amounts of grapefruit juice should be avoided as it can increase the risk of side effects and the concentration of buspirone in the body.

If you experience any side effects after taking these medications, consult your doctor. Never discontinue your anxiety medication without consulting your doctor first.