Side Effects of Medication for Anxiety Disorders

Q: Side Effects of Medication for Anxiety Disorders

Hello, netizen： 1. <br>Could this be a side effect of the medication Lyrica? A： Difficulty falling asleep and interrupted sleep may be possible. <br>If so, it is recommended to take it in the morning instead of before bedtime to avoid poor sleep, but this could also be a symptom

Regarding the side effects of Liyou (anxiolytic medication)?

Hello Doctor, I visited a psychiatrist two years ago due to anxiety disorder and health anxiety, and I took the medication Liyou for over a year.
I then stopped taking it on my own for a year without any discomfort.
Although I still experience mild health anxiety and anxiety, it generally does not affect my daily life.
However, two weeks ago, I noticed a resurgence of health anxiety, so I returned to the psychiatric clinic, and the doctor prescribed me the same medication, Liyou, at a dosage of half a tablet per day.
This time, while taking Liyou, I have developed some additional symptoms.
The most noticeable is that I, who previously did not have insomnia or light sleep, have been having difficulty falling asleep for several days, and my sleep is easily interrupted.
During the day, I also experience stronger feelings of restlessness.
I would like to ask the doctor: 1.
Are these symptoms potential side effects of Liyou? 2.
How long does it typically take for these side effects to stabilize and disappear with continued medication? Thank you for your response, Doctor!

A-Mao, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/08/21

Dr. Wu Enliang reply Psychiatry

Hello, netizen: 1.
Could this be a side effect of the medication Lyrica? A: Difficulty falling asleep and interrupted sleep may be possible.
If so, it is recommended to take it in the morning instead of before bedtime to avoid poor sleep, but this could also be a symptom of the underlying anxiety disorder.
As for experiencing stronger feelings of restlessness during the day, that is more likely a symptom of the original anxiety disorder.
2.
How long does it usually take for side effects to stabilize and disappear? A: Side effects generally resolve within one to two weeks.
Dr.
Wu Enliang.

Reply Date: 2021/08/21

More Info

When it comes to managing anxiety disorders, medications can play a crucial role in alleviating symptoms. However, as you've experienced, they can also come with side effects that may impact your daily life. In your case, you've resumed taking the medication "離憂" (which is likely to be a brand name for an antidepressant or anxiolytic) after a period of being off it, and you're now encountering new symptoms such as insomnia and increased restlessness. Let's address your concerns systematically.

1. Potential Side Effects of 离忧:
离忧 (likely a form of Sertraline or another SSRI/SNRI) can indeed have side effects, including sleep disturbances and increased anxiety or agitation, especially when starting the medication or adjusting the dosage. Insomnia and restlessness are not uncommon, particularly in the initial stages of treatment. These symptoms can arise as your body adjusts to the medication, and they may be more pronounced if you have a history of anxiety or if you are experiencing stressors in your life.

2. Duration for Side Effects to Stabilize:
The timeline for side effects to stabilize can vary significantly from person to person. Generally, it can take several weeks for the body to adjust to a new medication. For many individuals, side effects such as insomnia or increased anxiety may diminish within 2 to 4 weeks as the body acclimates to the medication. However, if these symptoms persist beyond this period or worsen, it is crucial to consult your prescribing physician. They may consider adjusting the dosage or switching to a different medication that may be better tolerated.

3. Importance of Communication with Your Doctor:
It’s essential to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider regarding any side effects you experience. They can provide guidance on whether these symptoms are expected and how to manage them. Additionally, if the side effects are significantly impacting your quality of life, your doctor may suggest alternative treatments or adjunct therapies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which can be very effective for anxiety disorders.

4. Lifestyle Considerations:
In conjunction with medication, lifestyle modifications can also help manage anxiety symptoms. Regular physical activity, a balanced diet, adequate hydration, and good sleep hygiene practices can all contribute positively to your mental health. Techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, or yoga may also help alleviate anxiety and improve sleep quality.

5. Monitoring Your Symptoms:
Keeping a journal of your symptoms, medication schedule, and any side effects can be beneficial. This record can help you and your doctor identify patterns and make informed decisions about your treatment plan.

In summary, while the return of anxiety symptoms and the emergence of new side effects can be concerning, they are not uncommon when resuming medication. It is important to give your body time to adjust while also staying in close contact with your healthcare provider to ensure that your treatment plan is effective and tailored to your needs. If side effects persist or worsen, do not hesitate to reach out to your doctor for further evaluation and support. Your mental health is paramount, and there are various strategies and treatments available to help you manage your anxiety effectively.

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