Anxiety Disorders Flashcards
What are the symptoms of occasional anxiety?
Fear, worry, tachycardia palpitation, shortness of breath, stomach upset, chest pain or other pain, insomnia or fatigue
What is the difference between occasional anxiety and an anxiety disorder?
With an anxiety disorder, the symptoms are chronic, severe and cause great distress. The disorder can interfere with the ability to do well at school or work and can harm relationships
What are the major types of anxiety disorders?
The major types of anxiety disorders are generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder (PD) and social anxiety disorder
What are other disorders that have symptoms of anxiety?
Other disorders that have symptoms of anxiety include obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
How is OCD and PTSD categorized?
OCD is categorized as “obsessive-compulsive and related disorders” and PTSD is categorized under “trauma and stressor-related disorders”
What are some examples of drugs that can cause anxiety?
Albuterol (if used too frequently or incorrectly), antipsychotics, bupropion, caffeine (in high doses), decongestants, illicit drugs, levothyroxine (if therapeutic overdose occurs), steroids, stimulants, theophylline
What are some lifestyle changes that can improve symptoms of anxiety?
Increasing physical activity, helping others, community involvement, yoga and meditation are some of the methods that can reduce stress
What is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)?
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of mental health treatment in which a trained clinician helps the patient explore patterns of thinking that lead to problem-solving, relaxation techniques, worry exposure and more
What are some natural products that may provide benefit in treating anxiety?
St. John’s Wort, Valerian, Passionflower, Kava
What is the benefit of St. John’s Wort and its safety concerns?
St. John’s Wort, used for depression and anxiety, is a strong CYP3A4 inducer and can decrease the concentration of other medications. St. John’s wort causes photosensitivity and is serotonergic, which increases the risk of serotonin syndrome when used in combination with other serotonergic medications
What is the benefit of Valerian and its safety concerns?
Valerian is used for anxiety and sleep, but some products may be contaminated with liver toxins; if used, liver function should be monitored
What is the benefit of Kava and its safety concerns?
Kava is a relaxant, but it can cause severe liver damage and is not recommended
What medications are considered first-line for the treatment of anxiety?
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)
What are some counseling points associated with SSRIs and SNRIs?
- Start at half the initial dose used for depression and slowly titrate to minimize anxiousness and jitteriness (common during the first couple of weeks)
- Will not provide immediate relief; takes at least four weeks at higher doses for a noticeable effect
- Other SSRIs and SNRIs may be used off-label for anxiety disorder
What medications are considered second-line for the treatment of anxiety?
Buspirone, Tricyclic Antidepressants, Hydroxyzine, Pregabalin, Gabapentin
What are some counseling points about Buspirone?
- Can use in combination with antidepressants (e.g. when there is a poor response)
- Considered a more favorable add-on medication than benzodiazepines in elderly patients (less sedating) or if there is a risk for benzodiazepine abuse
- Does not provide immediate relief; takes 2-4 weeks for effect