Medication for Stress & Anxiety
Stress can be the result of a change in events, losses in life or daily happenings at work and home. Examples of life events that can cause stress can be the birth of a baby or a job change. Anxiety can be a result of the build up of stress. Different ways to treat anxiety include opting for medication. The medication prescribed is dependent on a physician's diagnosis of the patient and severity of symptoms.
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Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors
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Taking an antidepressant such as Prozac, Zoloft, Celexa or Lexapro can be effective in managing symptoms of stress and anxiety. These medications are classified as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI's) due to the way they function on neurotransmitters in the brain. SSRI's are taken on a daily basis.
Benzodiazepines
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Using a benzodiazepine such as Xanax, Valium, Ativan or Klonopin can quickly relieve stress and anxiety symptoms. Benzodiazepines may be taken on a daily basis or used as needed (PRN). A physician needs to monitor these medications actively due to the potential for abuse.
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Mood Stabilizers
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Undergoing treatment with a mood stabilizer will improve symptoms of stress and anxiety. Mood stabilizers such as Depakote, Tegretol, Lithium or Lamictal are typically prescribed for bipolar disorders and management of these symptoms that coexist with the condition. Mood stabilizers are taken daily and require a sufficient dose to be effective.
Antipsychotics
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Taking an antipsychotic such as Abilify, Zyprexa, Seroquel, Risperdal or Geodon significantly reduce severe symptoms of stress and anxiety. These medications are used after others have failed in addition to being used to boost the effectiveness of other types of pills.
Other
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Choosing a medication that does not fit into another category is also common. Over-the-counter medications such as Benadryl help some people manage symptoms of anxiety and stress. Additionally, there are atypical antidepressants, antipsychotics and drugs used for chemical dependency that can manage these symptoms effectively.
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