TREATING ANXIETY EFFECTIVELY

It’s perfectly normal for your heart rate to quicken before an important meeting. Being completely paralyzed by anxiety and incapable of attending that meeting is not. Anxiety disorder refers to an anxiety level that is disproportionate to the situation, that doesn’t go away even when the situation returns to normal, and that causes such a high degree of distress that the person has trouble functioning normally.

If you suffer from anxiety disorder, your pharmacist can help you get the most out of your treatment.

TREATMENT

Addressing anxiety disorders may involve psychotherapy, medication, or a combination of both. The objective of psychotherapy is to equip individuals with tools for recognizing and effectively managing situations that trigger anxiety.

Given the association between anxiety disorder and a chemical imbalance in the brain, akin to what is observed in cases of depression, treatment may incorporate antidepressants. Additionally, doctors may prescribe anxiolytics to provide temporary relief from the physical manifestations of anxiety.

WHEN TAKING ANTIDEPRESSANTS, PATIENCE AND PERSEVERANCE ARE KEY

Antidepressants have a gradual onset, and it may take several weeks before experiencing their full effects. Typically, at the start of treatment, you’ll begin with a lower dose, which will be systematically increased to reach the optimal dose. This cautious approach minimizes the risk of early adverse side effects that often precede the therapeutic benefits. Your pharmacist will furnish precise instructions on how to proceed.

Should you encounter any adverse side effects, it is imperative to promptly consult your pharmacist. They can provide guidance on mitigating these symptoms. If the side effects prove particularly troublesome or fail to improve with time, a switch to an alternative treatment may be necessary. In such cases, your pharmacist will collaborate with your doctor to identify a more suitable option.

Throughout the course of your treatment, your pharmacist will monitor your symptoms. If there is insufficient improvement, they may recommend adjustments to your treatment in consultation with your doctor.

The duration of treatment varies from person to person, influenced by the severity of symptoms and individual response to treatment. While some may discontinue treatment after a specified period, others may require long-term continuation. Your doctor and pharmacist will collaborate with you to formulate a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.

ANXIOLYTICS: CAUTION REQUIRED

Anxiolytic drugs can be useful in some circumstances, but they are also associated with a risk of substance abuse and addiction. As a result, they must be taken at the lowest possible dose and for short periods only, for example, in the early days of antidepressant treatment, before the medication begins to take effect.

If your doctor prescribes you an anxiolytic, it is essential that you don’t take it in a higher dose or more frequently than he or she recommends. You must also follow the instructions related to anxiolytics, such as avoiding alcohol and avoiding driving until you know how the medication affects you. Your pharmacist is there to help you take your medication safely. Ask for advice whenever you feel unsure.

YOUR PHARMACIST IS LOOKING OUT FOR YOU

Antidepressants and anxiolytics have the potential to interact with other prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, and certain natural products. Your pharmacist plays a crucial role in ensuring the compatibility of all your medications, both prescription and non-prescription.

Managing mental health conditions can be demanding, and adhering to medication schedules adds to the complexity. Allow your pharmacist to assist in streamlining this process by synchronizing prescription renewal dates, making it more manageable alongside other responsibilities.