What Are Some Of The More Common Meds And How They Work

A Better Understanding Of The Most Popular Prescription Drugs Medications are often a part of the treatment options most psychiatrists give their clients.

They are developed specifically to help ease the symptoms of anxiety, depression, and other mental conditions. We all know that meds sound scary, so in order to break the stigma surrounding them, we decided to write this article.

Its aim is to explain what the most common prescription meds are and how they work so that people have a higher level of understanding when they come into contact with them.

We hope you find this interesting.

Xanax

We’ve all heard of Xanax – a benzodiazepine that treats anxiety and panic. It works by increasing the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid or, in simpler terms, the chemical responsible for calmness and relaxation. It’s absorbed quickly by the body, which is why most doctors recommend it.

Because of this, however, some people may abuse it, which is why it’s on the list of controlled substances in most countries. It has some side effects, especially if mixed with other medications. With time, people can become more tolerant of the substance, which is why dosage is very important when continuously taking Xanax.

Zoloft

Zoloft is the brand name of one of the most famous antidepressants out there. This is an SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor) that focuses on serotonin levels which are often outside of the norm in people with anxiety, depression, OCD, and the likes.

Prozac

This is another SSRI, but it’s different from Zoloft. It gained popularity much earlier, in the 1980s, and has been used ever since. This medication is very often taken on a regular basis alongside therapy. It is mostly used for treating anxiety disorders. However, many people recommend it for depression and OCD as well.

Its full effects can be seen up to 12 weeks after starting to take it, which can be frustrating and the reason why some people quit before they reach that point. The same as the other medications on this list, it should not be mixed with other substances, especially alcohol.

Ativan

This drug is a common antidepressant that works in a similar way to Xanax. However, it also affects the body’s physical functions and responses during such moments. It has a fast effect and as such, is often recommended for panic attacks and acute agitation, and restlessness.

It is also prescribed for alcohol withdrawal, seizures, and insomnia. A specific side effect that Ativan has is known as “rebound anxiety” – a relapse or worsening of the same feeling which was the initial reason for taking the pill.

A different but important side effect is also an overall numbing feeling towards life events and responsibility when under the influence of Ativan.

Adderall

Adderall is a stimulant medication often prescribed to people with ADHD. It’s a mix of dextroamphetamine and amphetamine that increases the activity of the central nervous system, making you more focused. It comes in two versions – immediate and extended-release – providing two different sorts of treatment.

One deals with instantaneous outbreaks, while the other with predetermined conditions. The deficiency in attention span is believed to be caused by a decrease in dopamine, and Adderall makes your brain produce larger quantities on a more regular basis.

Although it’s estimated to help around 75% of patients with ADHD, this medication also has side effects and can be addictive if not taken according to prescription.

Final Thoughts

Medications help people all over the world. Being so widespread, it’s incredibly important to know what they’re prescribed for, how they work, and what side effects they can have.

Here we have made a very short summary about the most common meds, but we highly recommend you do more research if you’re considering taking this or similar medicine and, of course, consult with a professional!