What are the most effective medications for treating vertigo and dizziness. How can lifestyle changes help alleviate symptoms of vertigo. When should you see a doctor about persistent dizziness.

Understanding Vertigo and Dizziness: Causes and Symptoms

Dizziness is a common symptom that can manifest in various ways. Some individuals describe it as feeling lightheaded, while others experience a sensation of movement or imbalance. In some cases, dizziness is accompanied by nausea, vomiting, or a feeling of impending fainting. It’s crucial to understand that dizziness itself is not a condition but rather a symptom of an underlying issue.

Vertigo, a specific type of dizziness, is characterized by the false sensation that you or your surroundings are spinning or moving. This can be particularly disorienting and may significantly impact daily activities.

Common Causes of Vertigo and Dizziness

• Inner ear problems (e.g., BPPV, Meniere’s disease)
• Vestibular neuritis or labyrinthitis
• Migraine headaches
• Anxiety disorders
• Dehydration
• Medication side effects
• Low blood pressure
• Neurological conditions

Understanding the root cause of your dizziness is essential for determining the most effective treatment approach. In many cases, dizziness resolves on its own over time. However, when symptoms persist or become severe, medical intervention may be necessary.

Medications for Treating Vertigo and Dizziness

Depending on the underlying cause of vertigo or dizziness, various medications can be prescribed to alleviate symptoms and address the root issue. Here are some of the most commonly used medications:

Antihistamines

Antihistamines are often used to treat vertigo and dizziness, particularly when symptoms are caused by inner ear problems. These medications work by reducing the body’s response to histamine, which can help alleviate vertigo symptoms.

• Meclizine (Antivert)
• Dimenhydrinate (Dramamine)
• Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)

Are antihistamines effective for all types of vertigo. While antihistamines can be helpful for many cases of vertigo, they may not be suitable for everyone. Some individuals may experience side effects such as drowsiness or dry mouth. It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate medication for your specific situation.

Anticholinergics

Anticholinergic medications can be effective in treating vertigo by reducing the activity of the vestibular system, which is responsible for balance and spatial orientation.

• Scopolamine (Transderm Scop)

Scopolamine is often prescribed as a patch and is particularly useful for preventing motion sickness and vertigo associated with travel.

Anti-anxiety Medications

For individuals experiencing dizziness related to anxiety disorders or panic attacks, anti-anxiety medications may be prescribed. These can help reduce feelings of dizziness by addressing the underlying anxiety.

• Benzodiazepines (e.g., diazepam, lorazepam)
• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)

Can anti-anxiety medications cause dizziness as a side effect. While anti-anxiety medications can be effective in treating dizziness related to anxiety, some individuals may experience dizziness as a side effect when first starting these medications. It’s important to work closely with your healthcare provider to monitor and manage any potential side effects.

Migraine Medications

For individuals experiencing vertigo or dizziness associated with migraines, specific migraine medications may be prescribed.

• Triptans (e.g., sumatriptan, rizatriptan)
• Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) antagonists
• Preventive medications (e.g., topiramate, propranolol)

These medications can help reduce the frequency and severity of migraine attacks, which may, in turn, alleviate associated vertigo symptoms.

Non-Pharmaceutical Approaches to Managing Vertigo and Dizziness

While medications can be effective in treating vertigo and dizziness, several non-pharmaceutical approaches can also provide relief. These methods can be used alone or in combination with medications for a comprehensive treatment plan.

Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy

Vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT) is a specialized form of physical therapy designed to help the brain compensate for inner ear problems. This therapy involves a series of exercises that can help improve balance, reduce dizziness, and enhance overall function.

How long does it take to see results from vestibular rehabilitation therapy. The duration of VRT and the time it takes to see improvements can vary depending on the individual and the underlying cause of vertigo. Some people may notice improvements within a few weeks, while others may require several months of consistent therapy to achieve significant results.

Canalith Repositioning Procedures

For individuals experiencing benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), canalith repositioning procedures can be highly effective. The most common of these is the Epley maneuver, which involves a series of head movements designed to reposition the displaced calcium crystals in the inner ear.

1. Sit on the edge of a bed and turn your head 45 degrees to the affected side.
2. Quickly lie back with your head still turned, allowing your shoulders to touch the bed while your head hangs slightly off the edge.
3. Hold this position for 30 seconds.
4. Turn your head 90 degrees to the opposite side without raising it.
5. Hold for another 30 seconds.
6. Slowly sit up while turning your head and body to the side you’re facing.

It’s important to note that while the Epley maneuver can be performed at home, it’s best to have a healthcare professional guide you through the procedure initially to ensure it’s done correctly and safely.

Lifestyle Modifications

Simple lifestyle changes can often have a significant impact on reducing the frequency and severity of vertigo and dizziness episodes.

• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to prevent dehydration-induced dizziness.
• Manage stress: Practice stress-reduction techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, or yoga.
• Get adequate sleep: Ensure you’re getting 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night.
• Avoid triggers: Identify and avoid factors that may trigger your vertigo or dizziness, such as certain foods, bright lights, or specific head movements.
• Limit alcohol and caffeine: Both can affect your body’s fluid balance and potentially exacerbate dizziness.

How can dietary changes help manage vertigo symptoms. Some individuals find that reducing their intake of salt, caffeine, and alcohol can help minimize vertigo episodes. Additionally, staying well-hydrated and maintaining stable blood sugar levels through regular, balanced meals can contribute to improved symptom management.

Alternative Therapies for Vertigo and Dizziness Relief

While scientific evidence may be limited for some alternative therapies, many individuals report finding relief from vertigo and dizziness through these approaches. It’s important to discuss any alternative treatments with your healthcare provider before incorporating them into your care plan.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture, a key component of traditional Chinese medicine, involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body. Some studies suggest that acupuncture may help alleviate vertigo symptoms, particularly when used in conjunction with conventional treatments.

Herbal Remedies

Certain herbs have been traditionally used to address vertigo and dizziness symptoms:

• Ginger: Known for its anti-nausea properties, ginger may help reduce vertigo-associated nausea.
• Ginkgo biloba: Some research suggests it may improve blood flow to the brain and inner ear, potentially reducing vertigo symptoms.
• Cayenne: This spice is believed to improve circulation, which may help alleviate dizziness.

Are herbal remedies safe for everyone with vertigo. While many herbal remedies are generally considered safe, they can interact with medications or may not be suitable for individuals with certain health conditions. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any herbal treatment regimen.

Essential Oils

Aromatherapy using essential oils may provide some relief from vertigo and dizziness symptoms. Oils such as peppermint, lavender, and ginger are often recommended for their potential calming and balancing effects.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Vertigo and Dizziness

While occasional, mild dizziness is usually not a cause for concern, there are situations where it’s important to seek medical attention promptly.

Red Flags Requiring Immediate Medical Evaluation

• Sudden, severe headache accompanied by dizziness
• Loss of consciousness or fainting
• Chest pain or shortness of breath
• Sudden changes in vision or speech
• Weakness or numbness in the face, arm, or leg
• Persistent vomiting
• High fever
• Recent head injury

These symptoms could indicate a more serious underlying condition, such as a stroke, heart problem, or neurological issue, and require immediate medical attention.

Persistent or Recurrent Symptoms

If you experience ongoing or frequently recurring episodes of vertigo or dizziness, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider. They can help determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

How long should you wait before seeking medical attention for persistent dizziness. If dizziness lasts for more than a week or significantly impacts your daily activities, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional. They can perform a thorough evaluation to identify the cause and recommend appropriate treatment options.

Diagnostic Approaches for Vertigo and Dizziness

Accurately diagnosing the cause of vertigo or dizziness is crucial for determining the most effective treatment approach. Healthcare providers may use a combination of methods to assess your condition.

Physical Examination

A thorough physical examination is typically the first step in diagnosing vertigo and dizziness. This may include:

• Checking blood pressure and heart rate
• Assessing eye movements and visual tracking
• Evaluating balance and coordination
• Performing the Dix-Hallpike test to check for BPPV

Diagnostic Tests

Depending on the suspected cause, your healthcare provider may recommend additional diagnostic tests:

• Electronystagmography (ENG) or videonystagmography (VNG): These tests evaluate eye movements and inner ear function.
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): An MRI can provide detailed images of the brain and inner ear structures.
• Computerized Dynamic Posturography (CDP): This test assesses balance control under various conditions.
• Blood tests: These can help identify underlying health conditions that may be contributing to dizziness.

What is the most accurate diagnostic test for vertigo. There is no single “most accurate” test for vertigo, as the appropriate diagnostic approach depends on the suspected underlying cause. A combination of physical examination, patient history, and targeted diagnostic tests often provides the most comprehensive assessment.

Prevention Strategies for Vertigo and Dizziness

While not all cases of vertigo and dizziness can be prevented, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of experiencing these symptoms or minimize their impact on your daily life.

Maintain Good Overall Health

• Exercise regularly to improve balance and coordination
• Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day
• Get adequate sleep and manage stress levels
• Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption

Practice Fall Prevention

For individuals prone to vertigo or dizziness, taking steps to prevent falls is crucial:

• Remove tripping hazards from your home
• Use non-slip mats in the bathroom and kitchen
• Ensure adequate lighting throughout your living space
• Consider using assistive devices like a cane or walker if necessary

Manage Underlying Health Conditions

If you have health conditions that may contribute to vertigo or dizziness, such as migraines or high blood pressure, work closely with your healthcare provider to manage these conditions effectively.

Can regular exercise help prevent vertigo episodes. While exercise may not prevent all cases of vertigo, regular physical activity can improve overall balance, coordination, and cardiovascular health. This can potentially reduce the frequency and severity of vertigo episodes for some individuals. However, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new exercise regimen, especially if you have a history of vertigo.

How to get rid of dizziness: Medications and remedies

There are various ways to treat dizziness, depending partially on the cause. Antihistamines, migraine medications, and anticholinergics are some medical options. Sometimes, drinking water or getting more sleep can resolve it.

Some people describe dizziness as feeling lightheaded, while some say it is a feeling of movement, either of themselves or the world around them. Another group might say dizziness is a feeling of being unbalanced, while others may have trouble describing it as anything other than plain dizziness.

Some of those who experience dizziness have accompanying nausea, vomiting, or a sense that they might faint.

Dizziness is not a disease or condition in its own right, but rather a symptom of another issue affecting someone.

Dizziness often goes away over time. In some cases, however, dizziness will not resolve on its own. Fortunately, there are multiple ways to treat it.

A doctor will take into account what is producing the symptom and then suggest treatments that can include medications, therapies, lifestyle changes, or even surgery.

Fast facts on dizziness and how to get rid of it:

• Dizziness can be gradual, sudden, and have various causes. If it is severe or lasts for longer than a week, someone should see a doctor.
• Dizziness can be treated with medication.
• Dizziness is sometimes caused by dehydration. Drinking water can help alleviate it in many cases
• Dizziness can often get better without treatment.

Was this helpful?

Share on PinterestDizziness may have many potential causes. Determining the root cause may help to establish the best treatment options.

Most of the time, no medication is needed, but there are some drugs that can be used to treat the underlying causes of dizziness. Depending on the cause, these can include:

• anti-anxiety medications, when dizziness is caused by panic disorders or by mental health issues
• anticholinergic drugs or antihistamines, which may reduce dizziness or offer relief from vertigo
• medications for migraines, if the dizziness is linked to migraines

Each of these medications can treat an underlying cause of dizziness, such as fluid buildup in the ear, anxiety, the side effects from a particular drug, or other reasons. Lifestyle changes or a further visit to the doctor may be necessary if these treatments do not help alleviate the dizziness.

Share on PinterestAcupuncture is one possible treatment that may help relieve dizziness.

If medication is not helping to treat dizziness, an individual may need to try some lifestyle changes.

These changes could be as simple as drinking more water or other non-alcoholic liquid to keep well-hydrated, or lying down when feeling dizzy.

Steps people can take to relieve dizziness include:

• lying down and closing the eyes
• acupuncture
• drinking plenty of water and keeping hydrated
• reducing stress plus alcohol and tobacco intake
• getting plenty of sleep

There are several therapeutic approaches that can also be used to help relieve dizziness, such as head position maneuvers, balance therapy, or psychotherapy.

• Head position maneuvers: A method called the Epley maneuver may help with feelings of dizziness. It involves moving the position of the head in specific ways to reposition small calcium crystals that are causing the dizziness. People should discuss the approach with a doctor before using it.
• Balance therapy: There are several exercises that people can do to train their bodies to become less sensitive to movement. These can help if dizziness is caused by a problem with the inner ear.
• Psychotherapy: If someone has dizziness that is related to an anxiety disorder, psychotherapy may help them to relieve this symptom.

A lifestyle change can be simple yet make a huge difference in reducing dizziness.

Someone with dizziness that does not resolve on its own after at least a week should see a doctor immediately.

According to a paper in the Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery & Psychiatry, “The clinician’s first job is to sort out whether the dizzy patient is having attacks of vertigo, or attacks of some other paroxysmal symptom. ”

Because dizziness is sometimes a symptom of a bigger issue, it is important for a doctor to diagnose the problem if the dizziness does not fade or become more manageable.

A doctor should be seen if the person experiences:

• persistent or severe headaches or migraines
• falling over regularly or a struggle when walking
• frequent or ongoing vomiting and nausea
• loss of consciousness
• shortness of breath or a struggle breathing
• any head injury
• a severely stiff neck
• seizures

If the dizziness is ongoing, frequent or severe, a doctor should be seen immediately.

When trying to get rid of dizziness, it is important to remember that it is a symptom of another issue and not a medical disorder in itself.

Share on PinterestDrinking water and staying hydrated can help to prevent dizziness, as dehydration may cause dizziness.

Dizziness can be caused by a wide variety of different factors, such as:

• consuming alcohol
• benign paroxysmal positional vertigo
• low blood pressure
• low blood sugar
• stroke
• dehydration
• hyperventilation
• panic disorder or panic attacks
• middle ear infection
• motion sickness
• Meniere’s disease
• an inflammation of the inner ear called labyrinthitis

There are many other instances and underlying causes of dizziness.

Certain medications can also cause dizziness as a side effect. People should always check the side effects of any medications they are taking to see if they may lead to dizziness.

Vertigo

Vertigo causes a similar feeling to dizziness but is a standalone condition. A person experiencing vertigo will feel like the environment around them is moving or spinning. Dizziness is a sensation while vertigo is the illusion of movement.

When someone feels as though they are moving in a similar manner, it is called subjective vertigo.

Diagnosing dizziness is often straightforward. Doctors will check to see if the person feels disorientated, woozy, or unbalanced. They will then look for other symptoms before checking for the underlying cause of the dizziness. A doctor will try to narrow down what is causing the dizziness so that they can treat that condition.

The doctor will ask a series of questions about when the dizziness began and other symptoms a person may have experienced.

They might then decide to check the inner ear, blood pressure, and other physical characteristics of the person, to make sure they are hydrated, their blood sugar is at a healthy level, and to check for other possible causes of the dizziness.

Once the doctor has decided about the probable cause of the dizziness, they will be able to suggest a treatment plan for the individual.

How to get rid of dizziness: Medications and remedies

There are various ways to treat dizziness, depending partially on the cause. Antihistamines, migraine medications, and anticholinergics are some medical options. Sometimes, drinking water or getting more sleep can resolve it.

Some people describe dizziness as feeling lightheaded, while some say it is a feeling of movement, either of themselves or the world around them. Another group might say dizziness is a feeling of being unbalanced, while others may have trouble describing it as anything other than plain dizziness.

Some of those who experience dizziness have accompanying nausea, vomiting, or a sense that they might faint.

Dizziness is not a disease or condition in its own right, but rather a symptom of another issue affecting someone.

Dizziness often goes away over time. In some cases, however, dizziness will not resolve on its own. Fortunately, there are multiple ways to treat it.

A doctor will take into account what is producing the symptom and then suggest treatments that can include medications, therapies, lifestyle changes, or even surgery.

Fast facts on dizziness and how to get rid of it:

• Dizziness can be gradual, sudden, and have various causes. If it is severe or lasts for longer than a week, someone should see a doctor.
• Dizziness can be treated with medication.
• Dizziness is sometimes caused by dehydration. Drinking water can help alleviate it in many cases
• Dizziness can often get better without treatment.

Was this helpful?

Share on PinterestDizziness may have many potential causes. Determining the root cause may help to establish the best treatment options.

Most of the time, no medication is needed, but there are some drugs that can be used to treat the underlying causes of dizziness. Depending on the cause, these can include:

• anti-anxiety medications, when dizziness is caused by panic disorders or by mental health issues
• anticholinergic drugs or antihistamines, which may reduce dizziness or offer relief from vertigo
• medications for migraines, if the dizziness is linked to migraines

Each of these medications can treat an underlying cause of dizziness, such as fluid buildup in the ear, anxiety, the side effects from a particular drug, or other reasons. Lifestyle changes or a further visit to the doctor may be necessary if these treatments do not help alleviate the dizziness.

Share on PinterestAcupuncture is one possible treatment that may help relieve dizziness.

If medication is not helping to treat dizziness, an individual may need to try some lifestyle changes.

These changes could be as simple as drinking more water or other non-alcoholic liquid to keep well-hydrated, or lying down when feeling dizzy.

Steps people can take to relieve dizziness include:

• lying down and closing the eyes
• acupuncture
• drinking plenty of water and keeping hydrated
• reducing stress plus alcohol and tobacco intake
• getting plenty of sleep

There are several therapeutic approaches that can also be used to help relieve dizziness, such as head position maneuvers, balance therapy, or psychotherapy.

• Head position maneuvers: A method called the Epley maneuver may help with feelings of dizziness. It involves moving the position of the head in specific ways to reposition small calcium crystals that are causing the dizziness. People should discuss the approach with a doctor before using it.
• Balance therapy: There are several exercises that people can do to train their bodies to become less sensitive to movement. These can help if dizziness is caused by a problem with the inner ear.
• Psychotherapy: If someone has dizziness that is related to an anxiety disorder, psychotherapy may help them to relieve this symptom.

A lifestyle change can be simple yet make a huge difference in reducing dizziness.

Someone with dizziness that does not resolve on its own after at least a week should see a doctor immediately.

According to a paper in the Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery & Psychiatry, “The clinician’s first job is to sort out whether the dizzy patient is having attacks of vertigo, or attacks of some other paroxysmal symptom.”

Because dizziness is sometimes a symptom of a bigger issue, it is important for a doctor to diagnose the problem if the dizziness does not fade or become more manageable.

A doctor should be seen if the person experiences:

• persistent or severe headaches or migraines
• falling over regularly or a struggle when walking
• frequent or ongoing vomiting and nausea
• loss of consciousness
• shortness of breath or a struggle breathing
• any head injury
• a severely stiff neck
• seizures

If the dizziness is ongoing, frequent or severe, a doctor should be seen immediately.

When trying to get rid of dizziness, it is important to remember that it is a symptom of another issue and not a medical disorder in itself.

Share on PinterestDrinking water and staying hydrated can help to prevent dizziness, as dehydration may cause dizziness.

Dizziness can be caused by a wide variety of different factors, such as:

• consuming alcohol
• benign paroxysmal positional vertigo
• low blood pressure
• low blood sugar
• stroke
• dehydration
• hyperventilation
• panic disorder or panic attacks
• middle ear infection
• motion sickness
• Meniere’s disease
• an inflammation of the inner ear called labyrinthitis

There are many other instances and underlying causes of dizziness.

Certain medications can also cause dizziness as a side effect. People should always check the side effects of any medications they are taking to see if they may lead to dizziness.

Vertigo

Vertigo causes a similar feeling to dizziness but is a standalone condition. A person experiencing vertigo will feel like the environment around them is moving or spinning. Dizziness is a sensation while vertigo is the illusion of movement.

When someone feels as though they are moving in a similar manner, it is called subjective vertigo.

Diagnosing dizziness is often straightforward. Doctors will check to see if the person feels disorientated, woozy, or unbalanced. They will then look for other symptoms before checking for the underlying cause of the dizziness. A doctor will try to narrow down what is causing the dizziness so that they can treat that condition.

The doctor will ask a series of questions about when the dizziness began and other symptoms a person may have experienced.

They might then decide to check the inner ear, blood pressure, and other physical characteristics of the person, to make sure they are hydrated, their blood sugar is at a healthy level, and to check for other possible causes of the dizziness.

Once the doctor has decided about the probable cause of the dizziness, they will be able to suggest a treatment plan for the individual.

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Medicines for mental illness

The effectiveness of drug therapy with psychotropic drugs is determined by the compliance of the choice of the drug with the clinical picture of the disease, the correctness of its dosing regimen, the method of administration and the duration of the therapeutic course. As in any field of medicine, in psychiatry it is necessary to take into account the entire complex of drugs that the patient takes, since their mutual action can lead not only to a change in the nature of the effects of each of them, but also to the occurrence of undesirable consequences.

There are several approaches to the classification of psychotropic drugs. Table 1 shows the classification proposed by the WHO in 1990, adapted to include some domestic medicines.

Table 1. Classification of psychopharmacological drugs.

The main clinical characteristics and side effects of the listed classes of pharmacological drugs are given below.

Antipsychotics

Clinical characteristics. This class of drugs is central to the treatment of psychoses. However, the scope of their application is not limited to this, since in small doses in combination with other psychotropic drugs they can be used in the treatment of affective disorders, anxiety-phobic, obsessive-compulsive and somatoform disorders, with decompensation of personality disorders.

Regardless of the characteristics of the chemical structure and mechanism of action, all drugs of this group have similar clinical properties: they have a pronounced antipsychotic effect, reduce psychomotor activity and reduce mental arousal, neurotropic action, manifested in the development of extrapyramidal and vegetovascular disorders, many of they also have antiemetic properties.

Side effects. The main side effects in the treatment of neuroleptics form the neuroleptic syndrome. The leading clinical manifestations of this syndrome are extrapyramidal disorders with a predominance of either hypo- or hyperkinetic disorders. Hypokinetic disorders include drug-induced parkinsonism, manifested by increased muscle tone, lockjaw, rigidity, stiffness, and slowness of movement and speech. Hyperkinetic disturbances include tremor and hyperkinesis. Usually in the clinical picture in various combinations there are both hypo- and hyperkinetic disorders. The phenomena of dyskinesia can be paroxysmal in nature, localized in the mouth area and manifested by spasmodic contractions of the muscles of the pharynx, tongue, lips, jaws. Often there are phenomena of akathisia – feelings of restlessness, “restlessness in the legs”, combined with tasikinesia (the need to move, change position). A special group of dyskinesias includes tardive dyskinesia, which occurs after 2-3 years of taking antipsychotics and is expressed in involuntary movements of the lips, tongue, face.

Among the disorders of the autonomic nervous system, orthostatic hypotension, sweating, weight gain, changes in appetite, constipation, diarrhea are most often observed. Sometimes there are anticholinergic effects – visual disturbances, dysuric phenomena. Possible functional disorders of the cardiovascular system with changes in the ECG in the form of an increase in the Q-T interval, a decrease in the T wave or its inversion, tachycardia or bradycardia. Sometimes there are side effects in the form of photosensitivity, dermatitis, skin pigmentation; skin allergic reactions are possible.

Antipsychotics of new generations, compared with traditional derivatives of phenothiazines and butyrophenones, cause significantly fewer side effects and complications.

Tranquilizers

Clinical characteristics. This group includes psychopharmacological agents that relieve anxiety, emotional tension, fear of non-psychotic origin, and facilitate the process of adaptation to stress factors. Many of them have anticonvulsant and muscle relaxant properties. Their use in therapeutic doses does not cause significant changes in cognitive activity and perception. Many of the drugs in this group have a pronounced hypnotic effect and are used primarily as hypnotics. Unlike neuroleptics, tranquilizers do not have a pronounced antipsychotic activity and are used as an additional tool in the treatment of psychosis – to stop psychomotor agitation and correct the side effects of neuroleptics.

Side effects of during treatment with tranquilizers are most often manifested by daytime drowsiness, lethargy, muscle weakness, impaired concentration, short-term memory, as well as a slowdown in the rate of mental reactions. In some cases, paradoxical reactions develop in the form of anxiety, insomnia, psychomotor agitation, hallucinations. Among the dysfunctions of the autonomic nervous system and other organs and systems, hypotension, constipation, nausea, urinary retention or incontinence, decreased libido are noted. Long-term use of tranquilizers is dangerous due to the possibility of developing addiction to them, i.e. physical and mental dependence.

Antidepressants

Clinical characteristics. This class of drugs includes drugs that increase the pathological hypothymic effect, as well as reduce somatovegetative disorders caused by depression. A growing body of scientific evidence now suggests that antidepressants are effective for phobic anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorders. It is assumed that in these cases, not the actual antidepressant, but the anti-obsessional and antiphobic effects are realized. There is data confirming the ability of many antidepressants to increase the threshold of pain sensitivity, to have a preventive effect in migraine and vegetative crises.

Side effects. Side effects related to the central nervous system and the autonomic nervous system are expressed by dizziness, tremor, dysarthria, impaired consciousness in the form of delirium, epileptiform seizures. Possible exacerbation of anxious disorders, activation of suicidal tendencies, inversion of affect, drowsiness or, conversely, insomnia. Side effects may be manifested by hypotension, sinus tachycardia, arrhythmia, impaired atrioventricular conduction.

When taking tricyclic antidepressants, various anticholinergic effects are often observed, as well as an increase in appetite. With the simultaneous use of MAO inhibitors with food products containing tyramine or its precursor – tyrosine (cheeses, etc.), a “cheese effect” occurs, manifested by hypertension, hyperthermia, convulsions and sometimes leading to death.

When prescribing serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and reversible MAO-A inhibitors, there may be disturbances in the activity of the gastrointestinal tract, headaches, insomnia, anxiety, and impotence may develop against the background of SSRIs. In the case of a combination of SSRIs with drugs of the tricyclic group, the formation of the so-called serotonin syndrome, which is manifested by an increase in body temperature and signs of intoxication, is possible.

Normotimics

Clinical characteristics. Normotimics include drugs that regulate affective manifestations and have a preventive effect in phasic affective psychoses. Some of these drugs are anticonvulsants.

Side effects of when using lithium salts are most often tremor. Often there are violations of the function of the gastrointestinal tract – nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, diarrhea. Often there is an increase in body weight, polydipsia, polyuria, hypothyroidism. Acne, maculo-papular rash, alopecia, as well as worsening of psoriasis are possible.

Signs of severe toxic conditions and overdose of the drug are a metallic taste in the mouth, thirst, severe tremor, dysarthria, ataxia; in these cases, the drug should be stopped immediately.

It should also be noted that side effects may be associated with non-compliance with the diet – a large intake of liquid, salt, smoked meats, cheeses.

Side effects of anticonvulsants are most often associated with functional disorders of the central nervous system and manifest as lethargy, drowsiness, ataxia. Hyperreflexia, myoclonus, tremor can be observed much less frequently. The severity of these phenomena is significantly reduced with a smooth increase in doses.

With a pronounced cardiotoxic effect, atrioventricular block may develop.

Nootropics

Clinical characteristics. Nootropics include drugs that can positively affect cognitive functions, stimulate learning, enhance memory processes, increase brain resistance to various adverse factors (in particular, to hypoxia) and extreme stress. However, they do not have a direct stimulating effect on mental activity, although in some cases they can cause anxiety and sleep disturbance.

Side effects – rare. Sometimes there are nervousness, irritability, elements of psychomotor agitation and disinhibition of drives, as well as anxiety and insomnia. Dizziness, headache, nausea and abdominal pain may occur.

Psychostimulants

Clinical characteristics.