What Types of Over the Counter Anxiety Medication Are Available?
Over-the-counter anxiety medication is a great way to combat the symptoms of anxiety. These types of medications include Beta-blockers, Benzodiazepines, and SSRIs. You should consult your doctor before taking any of these medications. Another option is talk therapy. Talk therapy is a very effective treatment for anxiety.
Beta-blockers
Using beta-blockers as an over-the-counter anxiety medicine can help people cope with their symptoms. These drugs work by relaxing blood vessels, which helps the heart pump more efficiently. This physiological response can help control anxiety symptoms and even improve performance. While beta-blockers have several benefits, they can have unwanted side effects and are best used for short-term use. As with all medication, it is important to discuss your treatment plan with your doctor.
Beta-blockers are commonly prescribed by healthcare providers to treat heart conditions. However, they can also be used for conditions other than heart problems. For example, a beta-blocker can be used to treat social phobia or performance anxiety. Typically, beta-blockers come in the form of prescription drugs, such as Atenolol and Propranolol. If you’re not sure which one to choose, any beta-blocker with the suffix -lol can be an effective treatment for social phobia and performance anxiety.
Benzodiazepines over the counter anxiety medication
Benzodiazepines can be prescribed to treat anxiety. However, it is best to discuss benzodiazepines with your doctor. There are side effects that may include confusion, irritability, and poor muscle coordination. This can lead to accidents and falls.
Benzodiazepines work by binding to GABA receptors in the brain. They produce a sedative effect and slow down the central nervous system. These medications are also effective in relieving insomnia, a symptom of anxiety. If used for long periods, the drug can cause tolerance. This can make it difficult to discontinue using it.
However, there are several alternatives to benzodiazepines. Natural supplements are sometimes recommended for people with anxiety. These are less addictive than over-the-counter benzos, and they may not cause severe withdrawal symptoms. Talking to your doctor about these alternatives will help you decide which is right for you.
SSRIs over the counter anxiety medication
Serotonin-reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are a class of drugs that help the brain release serotonin. Examples include citalopram, venlafaxine, and paroxetine. They are also known as antidepressants. They are often the first line of treatment for patients with anxiety disorders. Some people also use these medications to treat obsessive-compulsive disorders.
SSRIs and SNRIs affect the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. They have the same effect on the body, although SSRIs are used more often. However, SNRIs may have less severe side effects. In general, both drugs are effective at treating anxiety disorders. A recent review of the effectiveness of SSRIs and SNRIs in treating social anxiety disorder and other conditions found no major differences between the two drugs.
While SSRIs and SNRIs are typically the first choices for treating anxiety, these drugs can have serious side effects. They can lead to low sodium levels and sexual side effects. Taking a beta-blocker as an over-the-counter anxiety medication may be a good option if you’re looking for a quick fix.
Valerian
Valerian is a popular over-the-counter anxiety medication, but there are several caveats to consider before taking it. The herbal supplement may interact with other prescription medications and can increase the effects of certain sleep aids and depressants. Unlike medications, herbal supplements are not regulated by the FDA, so there is no way to be sure if they are safe to use. In addition, herbal supplements may contain other ingredients that may not be beneficial for your health.
Valerian root is extracted from a plant native to Asia and Europe and has sedative properties. It has been used for thousands of years to treat anxiety and sleep problems. While there is no single preparation of the herb that’s the most effective, many studies have focused on taking 400-600 milligrams per day. The supplement is best taken about 30 minutes before bedtime.
NSAIDs
If you are looking for over-the-counter anxiety medication, you’ve probably heard of NSAIDs. These drugs are generally safe when used according to recommended doses and conditions. They’re also used to treat inflammatory musculoskeletal conditions and cardiovascular diseases.
However, they have side effects, and they should be used only as directed. Some NSAIDs can increase the risk of heart attack and stroke. To reduce the risk of serious side effects, try taking NSAIDs as needed and talking to your doctor if you find that they aren’t working for you.
The study’s authors noted that aspirin use was associated with a decreased risk of depression and anxiety among cancer patients. In addition, the association was greater for patients who had cardiovascular disease than for those without. Further, aspirin use was associated with a lower risk of depression compared to non-aspirin NSAIDs.
