How is Generalized Anxiety Disorder diagnosed. What are the most effective treatments for GAD. Which medications are commonly prescribed for anxiety disorders. How can lifestyle modifications help alleviate anxiety symptoms. What role does psychotherapy play in managing GAD. Are there any natural remedies for anxiety relief. How can one differentiate between normal worry and GAD.

Understanding Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is a common mental health condition characterized by persistent and excessive worry about various aspects of life. To effectively manage this condition, it’s crucial to understand its symptoms, diagnosis, and available treatment options.

Diagnosing GAD: Ruling Out Other Conditions

The first step in diagnosing GAD involves ruling out other medical conditions that may present similar symptoms. These include:

• Hyperthyroidism
• Endocrine disorders
• Calcium imbalances
• Low blood sugar
• Certain heart problems

Additionally, some medications can cause anxiety-like symptoms. A thorough evaluation by a healthcare provider is essential to determine the root cause of the symptoms.

Medication Options for Generalized Anxiety Disorder

Medication plays a significant role in alleviating GAD symptoms and is often prescribed alongside other therapies. The choice of medication depends on the specific type of anxiety disorder and individual patient factors.

Antidepressants for Anxiety Treatment

Antidepressants, particularly Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs), are widely used to treat and prevent various anxiety disorders. Some commonly prescribed SSRIs include:

• Citalopram (Celexa)
• Escitalopram (Lexapro)
• Fluoxetine (Prozac)
• Paroxetine (Paxil)
• Sertraline (Zoloft)

Serotonin and Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs) such as duloxetine (Cymbalta) and venlafaxine (Effexor) are also effective in treating anxiety disorders. These medications work by influencing brain chemicals like serotonin and norepinephrine.

Other Medications for Anxiety Management

In addition to SSRIs and SNRIs, other medications that may be prescribed for anxiety include:

• Tricyclic antidepressants (e.g., imipramine)
• Novel antidepressants (e.g., mirtazapine)
• Antihistamines (e.g., hydroxyzine)
• Beta-blockers (e.g., propranolol)
• Anticonvulsants (e.g., gabapentin, pregabalin)

Is there a difference in how these medications are taken? Indeed, antidepressants are typically prescribed for daily use, regardless of whether anxiety symptoms are present on a given day. In contrast, antihistamines and beta-blockers are often taken as needed or immediately before anxiety-provoking events.

Anti-Anxiety Medications for Immediate Relief

For acute anxiety or panic attacks, fast-acting anti-anxiety medications may be necessary. Benzodiazepines are the most prominent class of drugs used for immediate relief. Common benzodiazepines include:

• Alprazolam (Xanax)
• Clonazepam (Klonopin)
• Chlordiazepoxide (Librium)
• Diazepam (Valium)
• Lorazepam (Ativan)

While effective, benzodiazepines can have drawbacks such as drowsiness, irritability, dizziness, memory problems, and the potential for physical dependence. Despite these concerns, they have largely replaced barbiturates due to their improved safety profile in cases of overdose.

An alternative anti-anxiety medication is buspirone (Buspar), which has fewer side effects and is not associated with dependence. However, it may not be as effective for individuals who have previously taken benzodiazepines.

The Role of Psychotherapy in Anxiety Treatment

Psychotherapy, with or without medication, is often considered a fundamental aspect of treatment for Generalized Anxiety Disorder. Several specific forms of psychotherapy have shown effectiveness in alleviating GAD symptoms.

Psychodynamic and Supportive-Expressive Therapy

These therapeutic approaches focus on anxiety as an outgrowth of feelings about important relationships. By exploring and understanding these underlying dynamics, patients can gain insight into their anxiety and develop healthier coping mechanisms.

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT is a widely recognized and effective treatment for GAD. It involves two main components:

1. Learning behavioral relaxation techniques
2. Restructuring patterns of thinking that foster anxiety

By addressing both the behavioral and cognitive aspects of anxiety, CBT helps patients develop practical skills to manage their symptoms effectively.

Biofeedback Therapy

Biofeedback is an innovative approach to anxiety management. During sessions with a therapist, patients observe their own brain-wave patterns on an electroencephalograph and gradually learn to control these waves. This technique teaches individuals to achieve a more relaxed state at will.

How many sessions are typically needed for biofeedback therapy? Practitioners estimate that after about a dozen sessions, most individuals can exert control over their mental activity without the help of a therapist or monitoring instrument.

Lifestyle Modifications for Anxiety Management

In addition to medication and therapy, lifestyle changes can play a crucial role in managing anxiety symptoms. These modifications can complement other treatments and contribute to overall well-being.

The Power of Exercise in Anxiety Relief

Daily exercise has been shown to be an effective treatment for anxiety symptoms. Physical activity can help reduce stress, improve mood, and promote better sleep – all of which contribute to anxiety management.

What types of exercise are particularly beneficial for anxiety? While any form of physical activity can be helpful, some options to consider include:

• Brisk walking
• Jogging
• Swimming
• Cycling
• Yoga
• Tai Chi

The key is to find an activity that you enjoy and can commit to regularly. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.

Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques

Incorporating mindfulness and relaxation practices into your daily routine can significantly reduce anxiety levels. These techniques help calm the mind and body, promoting a sense of peace and well-being.

Some effective mindfulness and relaxation practices include:

• Meditation
• Deep breathing exercises
• Progressive muscle relaxation
• Guided imagery
• Mindful movement (e.g., gentle yoga or qigong)

Regular practice of these techniques can help you develop greater awareness of your thoughts and emotions, allowing you to respond to anxiety triggers more effectively.

Nutrition and Anxiety: The Mind-Body Connection

The food we eat can have a significant impact on our mental health, including anxiety levels. A balanced diet rich in nutrients can support brain function and help regulate mood.

Anxiety-Reducing Foods

Certain foods have been associated with reduced anxiety symptoms. Incorporating these into your diet may help support your overall anxiety management plan:

• Fatty fish (rich in omega-3 fatty acids)
• Whole grains (complex carbohydrates)
• Leafy greens (high in magnesium)
• Fermented foods (probiotics for gut health)
• Berries (antioxidants)
• Nuts and seeds (healthy fats and minerals)

Can dietary changes alone cure anxiety? While nutrition plays a role in mental health, it’s important to view dietary modifications as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that may include medication, therapy, and other lifestyle changes.

Substances to Avoid or Limit

Just as some foods can help reduce anxiety, others may exacerbate symptoms. Consider reducing or eliminating the following from your diet:

• Caffeine
• Alcohol
• Refined sugars
• Processed foods

These substances can interfere with sleep, increase stress hormones, and contribute to mood fluctuations – all of which can worsen anxiety symptoms.

Social Support and Anxiety Management

Building and maintaining strong social connections is crucial for managing anxiety. Social support can provide emotional comfort, practical assistance, and a sense of belonging – all of which can help reduce anxiety levels.

The Benefits of Social Connection

Research has shown that social support can have numerous benefits for individuals with anxiety disorders:

• Reduced stress levels
• Improved coping skills
• Enhanced self-esteem
• Greater sense of control
• Increased resilience

How can one build a supportive social network? Consider these strategies:

1. Join support groups for individuals with anxiety
2. Participate in community activities or volunteer work
3. Nurture existing relationships with family and friends
4. Seek out social activities aligned with your interests
5. Consider online communities if face-to-face interactions are challenging

Remember that building social connections takes time and effort. Be patient with yourself and focus on gradually expanding your social circle in a way that feels comfortable and manageable.

Sleep Hygiene and Anxiety Reduction

The relationship between sleep and anxiety is bidirectional – anxiety can disrupt sleep, and poor sleep can exacerbate anxiety symptoms. Implementing good sleep hygiene practices can help break this cycle and improve overall mental health.

Tips for Better Sleep

To improve your sleep quality and potentially reduce anxiety symptoms, consider the following strategies:

• Maintain a consistent sleep schedule
• Create a relaxing bedtime routine
• Ensure your sleeping environment is cool, dark, and quiet
• Limit screen time before bed
• Avoid caffeine and heavy meals close to bedtime
• Exercise regularly, but not too close to bedtime
• Practice relaxation techniques before sleep

How much sleep is optimal for anxiety management? While individual needs vary, most adults require between 7-9 hours of sleep per night. Consistently getting adequate sleep can help regulate mood, improve cognitive function, and enhance resilience to stress.

Addressing Sleep Disorders

If you’re consistently having trouble sleeping despite implementing good sleep hygiene practices, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional. Some sleep disorders, such as insomnia or sleep apnea, can significantly impact anxiety levels and may require specific treatments.

Treatments for sleep disorders may include:

• Cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I)
• Sleep medication (prescribed by a doctor)
• Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) for sleep apnea
• Lifestyle modifications

Addressing underlying sleep issues can have a profound impact on anxiety symptoms and overall quality of life.

Complementary and Alternative Approaches to Anxiety Management

While traditional medical treatments and psychotherapy form the cornerstone of anxiety management, many individuals find additional relief through complementary and alternative approaches. These methods can be used alongside conventional treatments to create a holistic anxiety management plan.

Herbal Remedies and Supplements

Several herbs and supplements have been studied for their potential anxiety-reducing properties. Some popular options include:

• Chamomile
• Lavender
• Passionflower
• Valerian root
• L-theanine
• Magnesium

Are these natural remedies as effective as prescription medications? While some individuals report benefits from herbal remedies, it’s important to note that their effectiveness can vary, and they may not be suitable for everyone. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you’re taking other medications.

Mind-Body Practices

Mind-body practices can help reduce anxiety by promoting relaxation, improving body awareness, and fostering a sense of inner calm. Some popular mind-body approaches include:

• Acupuncture
• Massage therapy
• Aromatherapy
• Reflexology
• Reiki
• Hypnotherapy

While scientific evidence for some of these practices is limited, many individuals find them helpful in managing anxiety symptoms. As with any treatment approach, it’s essential to work with qualified practitioners and inform your healthcare provider about any complementary therapies you’re using.

Art and Music Therapy

Creative expression through art and music can be a powerful tool for managing anxiety. These therapies offer a non-verbal outlet for emotions and can help individuals process difficult feelings in a safe, supportive environment.

Benefits of art and music therapy for anxiety may include:

• Reduced stress and tension
• Improved mood
• Enhanced self-awareness
• Increased sense of control
• Development of healthy coping skills

How can one incorporate art or music therapy into their anxiety management plan? Consider joining a local art or music therapy group, working with a certified therapist, or simply setting aside time for creative activities at home. The key is to engage in these practices regularly and without judgment, focusing on the process rather than the end product.

Generalized Anxiety Disorder Treatment & Medications

Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors

• How Do I Know If I Have Generalized Anxiety Disorder?
• What Are the Treatments for Generalized Anxiety Disorder?

The first step is to rule out the possibility that your symptoms are being caused by a medical condition that is not psychiatric. Among the conditions that produce symptoms similar to those of anxiety are hyperthyroidism or other endocrine problems, too much or too little calcium, low blood sugar, and certain heart problems. Certain medicines also can sometimes cause anxiety. A thorough evaluation by your health care provider will determine if any of these conditions are the cause of your symptoms.

If no other medical culprit can be found and the symptoms seem out of proportion to any situation you are facing, you may be diagnosed with an anxiety disorder.

Medication for Anxiety

Medication is useful for alleviating the symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder and is often prescribed in conjunction with other therapies. Some types of anxiety drugs can be habit-forming and are usually prescribed on a short-term or as-needed basis.

Different anxiety disorders have different medication regimens. Some are preventive and some are designed to cure the problem.

Antidepressants, particularly selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), are widely used to treat and prevent a variety of anxiety disorders. Examples of SSRIs that are commonly used to treat chronic anxiety include citalopram (Celexa), escitalopram (Lexapro), fluoxetine (Prozac), paroxetine (Paxil), and sertraline (Zoloft). The antidepressants duloxetine (Cymbalta) and venlafaxine (Effexor), SNRIs (serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors) which act on the brain chemicals serotonin and norepinephrine, and some of the tricyclic antidepressants like imipramine (Tofranil), may also help. Novel antidepressants such as mirtazapine (Remeron) are also prescribed at times. 

Antihistamines (such as hydroxyzine) and beta-blockers (such as propranolol) can help mild cases of anxiety as well as performance anxiety, a type of social anxiety disorder. Antidepressants such as SSRIs or SNRIs or tricyclics need to be taken daily whether or not you have anxiety on that particular day, as prescribed by your health care provider. Antihistamines or beta-blockers are usually taken only when needed for anxiety, or immediately before an anxiety-provoking event (for example, taking propranolol shortly before giving a speech). Finally, certain anticonvulsant medicines, such as gabapentin (Neurontin) and pregabalin (Lyrica), are also beginning to show value in treating some forms of anxiety in initial research studies

If you have acute anxiety (panic attack), you will likely need to take an anti-anxiety medicine as well. The most prominent of anti-anxiety drugs for the purpose of immediate relief are those known as benzodiazepines; among them are alprazolam (Xanax), clonazepam (Klonopin), chlordiazepoxide (Librium), diazepam (Valium), and lorazepam (Ativan). They have drawbacks: Benzodiazepines sometimes cause drowsiness, irritability, dizziness, memory and attention problems, and physical dependence. Nonetheless, in recent decades they have largely replaced barbiturates because they tend to be safer if taken in large doses.

Another anti-anxiety drug is buspirone (Buspar). It has fewer side effects than benzodiazepines and is not associated with dependence. Buspar, however, can have its own side effects and may not always be as effective when a person has taken benzodiazepines in the past.

Therapy for Anxiety

Psychotherapy, with or without medication, is often considered a fundamental aspect of treatment for generalized anxiety disorder.

Several specific forms of psychotherapy have been described in research studies as helpful for alleviating the symptoms of GAD. Two — psychodynamic psychotherapy and supportive-expressive therapy — focus on anxiety as an outgrowth of feelings about important relationships. Another form of psychotherapy, called cognitive-behavioral therapy, involves learning behavioral relaxation techniques as well as restructuring patterns of thinking that foster anxiety.

Biofeedback is another helpful tool. In a series of sessions with a therapist, you watch your own brain-wave patterns on an electroencephalograph and gradually learn to control the waves. This teaches you to achieve a more relaxed state at will. Practitioners estimate that after about a dozen sessions, you will be able to exert control over mental activity without the help of the therapist or monitoring instrument.

Lifestyle Modifications to Alleviate Anxiety

Daily exercise can be another helpful treatment for anxiety symptoms. If you find that exercise works for you, push yourself to go for brisk walks or undertake an active sport that you enjoy. Get your heart rate into the target range for your age for at least 30 minutes each time you exercise.

Since anxiety is often accompanied by shallow breathing, deep breathing exercises can also be helpful. Try the following form of yoga breathing:

• Lie on your back in a comfortable place.
• Breathe in slowly through your nose, using your diaphragm to suck air into your lungs while allowing your abdomen to expand. (Put your hand on your abdomen just below the navel to make sure the abdomen is being pushed up and out by the diaphragm.) After the abdomen is expanded, continue to inhale as deeply as possible.
• When you breathe out, reverse the process: Contract the abdomen while exhaling slowly and completely.
• Repeat several times.

Progressive relaxation is another helpful technique. It begins by tensing and then relaxing one part of the body, usually beginning with the toes. When this part of the body is relaxed, another part of the body is tensed and relaxed until the entire body is free of tension.

Relaxing visualization can also help. A therapist or meditation trainer suggests relaxing images for a person to hold in mind. Once the image is in place, the person imagines soothing sensations such as pleasant scents and sounds. Eventually, people can learn to do this themselves when they anticipate — or find themselves in — stressful situations.

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Panic Attack Treatments: Medications & Remedies

Written by Steven Brown

• First Step
• Counseling
• Medication
• What Else Helps
• Get Support
• Tap Into Patience
• More

Many of us may have a panic attack or two during our lives, and the brief episodes don’t lead to anything else. But for some people, they happen a lot more.

If you think someone is having a panic attack, here’s how you can help them right away:

• Ask them what you can do.
• Reassure them that the attack will probably pass in a few minutes.
• Encourage them to take slow, even breaths.
• Do not minimize their symptoms.
• If they’ve had a panic attack before, ask what helped them through it.
• If you can’t calm them, take them to see a health care provider right away.

 If you’ve had more than one panic attack, it could lead to problems such as depression, agoraphobia (fear of open or public spaces), or substance abuse. If you’ve had multiple attacks, see a doctor. Treatment can do a lot to stop them.

Doctors generally treat panic attacks by setting people up with psychological therapy, medication, or both. Whichever route you and your doctor take, it will need time to work, so try to be patient. When people follow through with their treatment plan, the overwhelming majority find relief and have no permanent problems.

The racing heartbeat or other discomforts that go with an attack can resemble other illnesses, such as heart disease. So your doctor will probably start by giving you a complete physical exam. That way, they can make sure that the symptoms aren’t coming from a disease you didn’t know about.

If no medical condition like that shows up, your doctor may send you to talk to a psychologist or psychiatrist trained to recognize when someone has been having panic attacks.

Your doctor will combine the counselor’s input with their own observations to diagnose what’s wrong. When someone has attacks repeatedly, doctors call the condition panic disorder.

The treatment may begin with “talk therapy.” You’ll sit down with a counselor who can help you understand what panic disorder is and how you can manage it.

As your treatment continues, therapy should help you figure out the situations, thoughts, or feelings that cause your attacks. Once you understand what’s happening, those triggers have less power to cause trouble.

Counseling should also show you that the attacks’ physical effects don’t actually hurt you. With your therapist, you’ll work through your symptoms in a safe, gradual way until they seem less scary. That also can help make the attacks go away.

You’ll also learn relaxation techniques that can help you handle attacks when they do happen. If you can control your breathing, for instance, that may make a panic attack less severe. It might also make the next one less likely. You have to practice these skills regularly in your daily life to get the benefit.

Your doctor may decide that medication should be part of your therapy, to lessen your attacks’ physical symptoms. It might be part of the first steps, for instance. They might prescribe:

• An antidepressant, which is generally the first choice to prevent future panic attacks.
• An anti-anxiety prescription drug such as a benzodiazepine. For people with substance use disorders, doctors may prescribe other medications.

You and your doctor may have to try more than one medication before finding what works best. Some people do best with more than one type.

In addition to your treatment, you may also find that these everyday habits make a difference:

• Yoga or deep breathing may relax your body and lower stress.
• Exercise can help calm your mind and offset potential side effects of medication, such as weight gain.
• Stay away from alcoholic drinks, caffeine, smoking, and recreational drugs, which can trigger attacks.
• Get enough sleep, so you don’t feel draggy during the day.

Some research shows that acupuncture, the Chinese technique of inserting thin needles into the body to control the flow of energy, may help.

As for dietary supplements, there’s not enough research showing that they work to reduce panic attacks. One, called inositol, showed some promise in small studies, but it’s too soon to know how well it works. Be sure to check with your doctor before trying any supplements, because they could have side effects or conflict with medication.

While you’re working to get better, it helps to have people around you to help. If you join a support group, you could draw strength and encouragement from others who face the same challenges.

Your loved ones can pitch in, too. Health professionals more and more recommend treatment programs that include spouses, partners, or families. For instance, the people around you can help you practice relaxation techniques or other skills.

If you’re a friend or family member of someone who’s dealing with panic attacks, be patient with them. Never scold or judge. Learn their signs of stress, so you can watch for them and be a calming influence. If your loved one does have a panic attack, stay calm and help them get whatever aid they need.

Conquering panic attacks takes time. If you have weekly therapy sessions, you should start to notice results in 10 to 20 weeks. Some studies show improvement after just 12 weeks. After a year, you should feel a huge improvement.

It all depends on sticking with the treatment plan that you and your medical team create. Keep your eyes on the goal.

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Articles of the network of pharmacies “Classic” – Pharmacy Classic

09/21/2017

“All diseases are from the nerves,” said doctors in the middle of the 20th century. However, the 21st century has come, and nothing has changed in this regard. The rhythm of life is still accelerating, the demands are getting higher, and the fatigue is getting bigger. Tips for normalizing rest and sleep patterns, improving nutrition and avoiding stressful situations help, but to help them they need to take medications that help the depleted nervous system restore tone and return to normal.

It is gratifying that modern pharmacology does not stand still and regularly supplies new and more advanced sedatives to the drug market. Their effect on the body manifests itself much faster, they have fewer contraindications and do not cause side effects that the drugs of past generations were famous for. In our selection, experts from the Classic pharmacy will tell you which sedatives are considered the best today.

1. Fitosedan (Sedative collection No. 2).

This sedative is one of the few all-natural stress relievers. At the same time, the absence of synthetic components does not in the least prevent it from exerting a powerful sedative effect on the body, and all thanks to an amazing combination of medicinal herbs such as oregano and thyme, valerian, sweet clover and licorice root.
As practice shows, Fitosedan perfectly eliminates sleep problems and prevents the negative effects of stress, if it has not yet become chronic.

In addition, sedative collection No. 2 does not harm the body, which means that it can be used even during pregnancy and even children. The same applies to side effects. For example, Fitosedan does not cause drowsiness, and therefore doctors recommend drinking it in the afternoon, brewing one filter bag at a time, and drinking it like tea. Moreover, you can take the remedy even in the morning or at lunchtime, without fear of the appearance of a sleepy or inhibited state. With all this, Fitosedan is an affordable drug, the price of which will pleasantly surprise you.

2. Persen.

Persen is another herbal preparation that combines valerian extract with lemon balm and peppermint. In this combination, the substances from these herbs are able to have a mild relaxing and calming effect on the body.
The drug Persen perfectly copes with neurotic conditions and unpleasant symptoms of stress, it is effective as a remedy for anxiety and depression, and besides, it bears the proud title of “The Best Natural Sleeping Pill”. Moreover, experts often prescribe this medication for the prevention of psychosomatic disorders.

Separately, we will say that Persen is not at all addictive and does not reduce concentration, so it can be taken by people engaged in activities that require increased concentration. If we talk about the shortcomings of the drug, then this should include individual intolerance and hypersensitivity to the components of Persen. Persen is not prescribed to children under three years of age due to the lack of studies confirming the safety of taking the medicine at this age.

3. Tenoten.

This drug belongs to homeopathic remedies, the effects on the body of which are still disputed today. The fact is that the active substance of the drug is present in this medication in extremely small doses, and, according to some scientists, does not have a positive effect on the nerves.
Nevertheless, numerous studies and reviews prove that the drug is excellent for people who are in a state of prolonged stress, those who suffer from neuroses and are faced with autonomic and psychosomatic disorders.

In addition, Tenoten improves memory and increases the body’s resistance to stress.
The undoubted advantage of the drug is that due to the minimum doses of the drug, Tenoten does not cause side effects. And the list of its contraindications includes only children under 3 years of age, pregnancy and lactase deficiency.

4. Deprim

This sedative is commonly called the “Most Natural Antidepressant”, and all because its active ingredient is the St. John’s wort plant, or rather its extract. For the first time, scientists became interested in the antidepressant effect of this medicinal plant in the mid-80s of the last century, and the opinions of American and European researchers diverged. The Americans considered that St. John’s wort is not able to effectively affect the central nervous system, while European scientists proved that in the fight against depressive states, St. John’s wort extract is in no way inferior, and in many ways even surpasses traditional antidepressants.

Today, Deprim is often prescribed to combat depression (mild to moderate), in case of low mood, anxiety (especially during menopause), as well as increased sensitivity to weather changes. True, you can buy medicine only with a doctor’s prescription, and for children under 6 years old, it is contraindicated. In addition, it must be remembered that this medicine enhances photosensitivity, which means that it is better for fans of a beautiful sun tan or visiting a solarium to refuse treatment with Deprim. And yet – you should not combine taking this medication with another antidepressant, so as not to cause an overdose.

5. Afobazole

The drug Afobazole is rightfully called one of the best anxiolytics and tranquilizers of our time. This tool is the best combination of efficiency, safety and affordability.
Judge for yourself, Afobazole perfectly calms the nerves and reduces anxiety, helps to eliminate insomnia and problems with falling asleep. In narcological practice, this drug is prescribed to people who decide to quit smoking or “quit” alcohol. Afobazole in this case perfectly eliminates the signs of withdrawal symptoms. The medicine is also used in psychiatry, where, in combination with other drugs, it eliminates some psychosomatic disorders.

Here it is worth mentioning the main advantage of the sedative in question. The fact is that Afobazole is the only tranquilizer that does not turn into addiction. Moreover, this remedy is combined with alcoholic beverages, which means that when taking the medicine, you will not attract too much attention to yourself at friendly parties and family celebrations.

At the same time, this medication is not prescribed to persons under the age of 18, pregnant women, nursing mothers, and people with lactose intolerance.

6. Gerbion

This is another combination sedative of natural origin, which includes valerian root, peppermint, hop cones and lemon balm. Thanks to this combination of medicinal herbs, the drug has a calming effect on the central nervous system. First of all, this effect is provided by valerian root. Hop cones enhance its effect on the nervous system, while lemon balm and peppermint have a relaxing effect and give the drug a pleasant taste.

Gerbion is recommended for people suffering from anxiety, those who need to cope with increased excitability, irritability, insomnia or constant stress.
The medicine is produced in drops, and therefore, for most of the listed disorders, it is enough to take 20-30 drops a day so that unpleasant nervous disorders no longer bother you.

It is recommended to use Gerbion for adults, but for children under twelve years of age, the medication is prescribed only after consultation with a specialist. In addition, it should be remembered that Gerbion drops are produced on alcohol, which means that they should be used by persons driving a car and other means of increased danger with caution.

7. Novo-passit

This Czech drug is called the best drug with anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) action. Initially, Novo-Passit caused a lot of doubts as a sedative, because the active component of this drug is the substance guaifenesin, developed by scientists in 2012 to combat coughs. However, later it turned out that this plant substance, extracted from the bark of the guaiac tree, affects not only the cough center, but also the central nervous system, relieving a person of anxiety and perfectly calming “shaken” nerves.

Today Novo-Passit is used to combat such unpleasant conditions as irritability and anxiety, absent-mindedness, fear, and increased excitability. It is often prescribed to women to alleviate symptoms during menopause. Moreover, in combination with other drugs, Novo-Passit is used to combat allergies.
Experts note the speed of the drug. Its beneficial effect on the body can be felt after 30 minutes, which makes Novo-Passit indispensable in the case of neuroses and reactive psychoses. However, every person taking this drug should be aware of the possible side effects in the form of nausea, vomiting, or dizziness.

In addition, Novo-Passit reduces reaction time and weakens attention, which limits the category of people who can take this drug. Children under 12 years of age are also not prescribed this sedative.

8. Phenibut

Phenibut is one of the best representatives of modern nootropic drugs, i.e. drugs that activate the brain and improve mental processes. At the same time, Phenibut is a universal remedy with tranquilizing (calming and relieving anxiety) action.
Due to such a diverse effect on the brain and, in particular, on the nervous system, Phenibut is prescribed in case of difficulty falling asleep, constant fear, anxiety and other neurotic conditions.

Neurologists use this remedy to treat dizziness and tension headaches, in cases of “seasickness” (motion sickness) and Ménière’s disease. In combination with other drugs, Phenibut is also prescribed for children.

Let’s talk about the negative impact on the body. Doctors do not recommend taking the medication for a long time, as in this case it can harm the liver.

9. Pantogam

This is another representative of nootropic drugs that protects the brain from oxygen starvation, increases mental and physical performance. At the same time, the drug has a moderate sedative effect on the body, which allows it to be used in neurotic conditions and the treatment of various addictions.

Interest in Pantogam is increasing year by year also because, against the background of the treatment of serious diseases such as schizophrenia, epilepsy or Parkinson’s disease, this drug helps to cope with nervous breakdown, sleep disturbance and other consequences of stress. Moreover, it is widely used in pediatrics, improving children’s memory and normalizing a child’s sleep.

Pantogam is prescribed in the complex treatment of childhood epilepsy, as well as mental retardation in children. Psychomotor agitation in children is also a reason for prescribing this drug.
The advantages of Pantogam include the fact that in the event of side effects, it is enough just to reduce the dosage of the medicine, as an unpleasant condition will immediately go away. However, among its side effects are drowsiness and lethargy, and in case of an overdose, a person becomes lethargic. In addition, the contraindication of the drug is pregnancy (I trimester), allergic reactions and kidney pathology.

10. Glycine

If we talk about the means tested over the years, which have long proved their effective effect on the nervous system, then the first among them is Glycine. Today, this remedy is in demand, as before, and doctors proudly call it the best sedative for children.
This medicine, which improves metabolic processes in the brain, has been helping people cope with increased emotional stress, aggressiveness and conflict for more than a dozen years.

Glycine perfectly improves mood, relieves anxiety and improves sleep. The medication in question helps to cope with the withdrawal syndrome and manifestations of menopause for adults, and at the same time is suitable for children over three years old who suffer from increased excitability and do not sleep well at night.

The great advantage of this universal drug is the absence of contraindications (except for individual intolerance), as well as the low price, which makes Glycine affordable for all categories of citizens.

In this article, you have read the top 10 best sedatives for the nervous system, which means that in case of nervous disorders, it will be much easier for you to choose the right medicine. However, do not forget to consult a doctor before using it.
Take care of yourself!

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Good sedatives without a prescription – an article on the site Aptechestvo, Nizhny Novgorod

Insomnia, apathy, anxiety – these and other symptoms of stress appear when the nervous system is shaken up. In such a state, the quality of life decreases: fatigue and weakness dominate the desire to do something, and lack of sleep provokes unreasonable aggression and anxiety. To overcome the symptoms of stress, good sedatives without prescriptions, which can be bought at the pharmacy, will help.

Nature of stress

Stress is a set of non-specific adaptive (normal) reactions of the body to the impact of various adverse factors. Difficulties in the team, moving, the upcoming exam are just a small part of what can affect the nervous system, causing insomnia, anxiety and other manifestations of stress.

The nature of such a condition can be chronic, acute or short-term, which is important for the selection of treatment. So, if the disorder is not associated with serious mental disorders, sedative drugs without prescriptions are enough. For chronic and severe stress, prescription drugs prescribed by a doctor are required.

How stress manifests itself

Human reactions are controlled by processes occurring in the nervous system – excitation and inhibition. With normal psychological health, they are balanced, but in the event of a nervous shock, this balance is disturbed.

Depending on which process is activated more strongly, the following appear:

• anxiety attacks, irritability, aggression;

• sleep disorders;

• frequent and abrupt mood swings;

• prostration;

• apathy;

• memory and concentration disorders;

• nervous excitement and other signs of stress.

Over-the-counter sedative pills restore this balance. The cumulative effect of taking them prevents disruptions in mental health, including during periods of a break between courses.

Effect of sedatives

Fast-acting sedative pills without prescriptions reduce the excitability of nerve cells. As the concentration of active substances in the body increases, nervous tension disappears, healthy sleep is restored, and other symptoms of stress disorder are suppressed.

An over-the-counter herbal sedative should be taken in cases of unreasonable anxiety, sleep problems and unstable mood.

Suppression of irritability is facilitated by preparations based on magnesium carbonate and vitamin B6. Capsules Motherwort Forte Evalar and Stressovit have proven themselves, the main substances of which are linden, motherwort and hops.

Types of antidepressants

All antidepressant drugs are divided into groups:

• neuroleptics – suppress psychomotor agitation;

• tranquilizers – are an adjuvant when taking antipsychotics, they stop nervous excitement;

• psychostimulants – return activity and vigor;

• antidepressants – applicable in the treatment of depression and other mental disorders;

• normothymic drugs – effective in depression associated with chronic affective diseases.

These are prescription drugs that are selected exclusively by a specialist. The list of over-the-counter soothing pills includes amino acids, as well as herbal preparations based on St. John’s wort, valerian, motherwort, mint, and chamomile.

The best sedatives without prescriptions

For mild psychosomatic disorders, it is useful to take sedatives for the nervous system of an adult without prescriptions. Herbal components and amino acids in the composition of such preparations can quickly relieve psycho-emotional stress, reduce anxiety, increase mental activity, restore healthy sleep without night awakenings.

The list of sedatives without prescriptions includes preparations with lemon balm and valerian – Dormiplant, Persen, Novo-Passit.

Certain drugs for nervous tension are suitable for suppressing anxiety attacks and treating nocturnal enuresis in children.

Use of tablets for nervous tension

In the event of a nervous breakdown, psycho-emotional health is helped to keep sedatives from nerves without prescriptions.