Which Anxiety Medication Is Right for Me?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of which medication is right for Generalised Anxiety Disorder(GAD). Some people respond well to medication, while others might not.

It is important to work with a trained and qualified psychiatrist to find the right medication and dosage for you. Some medicines work better for short-term relief, while others are better for long-term treatment. It is also important to be patient and to give the medication time to work. 

Here’s something that may interest you: 5 common myths about psychiatry 

Generalised Anxiety Disorder

Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is a condition that causes persistent worry and anxiety.

Symptoms of GAD can include muscle tension, fatigue, problems sleeping, and irritability. People with GAD often have trouble concentrating and tend to worry about things that are out of their control.

There are a number of medications that can help treat GAD, including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), and benzodiazepines. Your psychiatrist will work with you to find the medication that is best suited to your individual needs.

If you’re suffering from both anxiety and depression, click here. 

Different Types of Anxiety Medication

A variety of anxiety medications are available, and all of them work a little differently. The most common types of anxiety medication are antidepressants, benzodiazepines, and beta blockers.

Antidepressants 

There are a few different types of antidepressants, and they all work differently. The most common type is called a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, or SSRI. This type of antidepressant helps increase the levels of serotonin in your brain, which helps improve mood and reduce anxiety.

Another type of antidepressant is called a tricyclic antidepressant, or TCA. This type works by blocking the reabsorption of certain chemicals in your brain, which increases the amount of serotonin available. The third type of antidepressant is called a monoamine oxidase inhibitor, or MAOI. This type of antidepressant blocks an enzyme that breaks down serotonin and other neurotransmitters in your brain. 

Antidepressants can take several weeks to start working, but they have been shown to be effective in treating anxiety disorders.

Benzodiazepines

Benzodiazepines are a type of sedative that is often prescribed for anxiety disorders. They work by depressing the central nervous system, and they're effective in relieving anxiety symptoms quickly.

Benzodiazepines are addictive, and they should only be taken for a short period of time. They can also be dangerous if you take them with alcohol or other drugs. Thus, it is extremely crucial for you to take this medicine only under the supervision of a trained and qualified psychiatrist. 

Beta-Blockers

Beta-blockers are a type of medication that is used to treat heart conditions, but they can also be effective in treating anxiety. They work by blocking the effects of adrenaline, which helps to calm the body and reduce symptoms of anxiety. When you're feeling anxious, your body releases adrenaline as a response. Beta-blockers prevent that from happening, which in turn helps to calm you down. They're not the only type of medication used to treat anxiety, but they're one of the most common. 

Here’s everything you need to know about psychiatric medications

What Are the Benefits and Risks of Taking Anxiety Medication?

Anxiety medication comes with a variety of benefits and risks.

Benefits of anxiety medications include relief from symptoms of anxiety, improved mood, and improved cognitive function. However, anxiety medications also come with a number of risks.

The most common risks associated with anxiety medications are addiction and dependence. Other risks include overdose, cardiac arrest, and death. It is important to weigh the benefits and risks of taking any anxiety medication before making a decision. A psychiatrist can guide you in the process of using medicines to improve the quality of your life while making sure that it does not lead to any negative consequences for you. 

Read about the best ways to treat Generalised Anxiety Disorder.

It is important to work with your psychiatrist to find the right medication. There is no one-size-fits-all answer, and what works for one person may not work for another. It may take a little time and experimentation to find the medication that is right for you.

But don't give up! With the help of your psychiatrist, you can find the medication that will help you manage your anxiety disorder.