Patient's Query
Dear doctor,
I have been taking SNRI/ SSRI for around 20 years. Five years ago, my general anxiety got worse. So, my doctor switched from Citalopram 10 mg to Escitalopram 10 mg (one per day). Citalopram was taken five years to 10 years ago, and before that, Zoloft 20 mg per day. Now my GAD is getting worse. A friend of mine had a good experience with Buspirone. Could you explain me the general difference between Escitalopram and Buspirone?
Hello,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
Buspirone is a different drug than Escitalopram. Escitalopram is an SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor) and helps improve serotonergic neurotransmission in the brain. The drug should be taken regularly in order to improve anxiety and depression. Buspirone is also a drug that improves serotonergic neurotransmission, but the drug usually helps control anxiety symptoms. The drug should be taken on an SOS basis, while in some conditions, this should be taken regularly. If we consider potency, then Escitalopram is more potent than Buspirone. Thanks and take care.
Patient's Query
Hi doctor,
In general, which other anti-anxiety (depression) medicine is more potent? Just for my knowledge, as I know each person has to be treated individually.
Hello,
Welcome back to icliniq.com.
If we consider the first-line drugs, then SSRIs like Escitalopram, Citalopram, Fluoxetine, etc., are commonly used for anxiety. In some cases, Venlafaxine, Duloxetine, etc., can be used. If you do not see improvement with Escitalopram, then Buspirone can be used as an add-on. This will help supplement the actions of Escitalopram and will control your anxiety. You can consider this option.
Patient's Query
Hello Doctor,
As I have been taking for 20 years SSRI/ SNRI, I was told that there is a change in the synapse in the brain, like neurotransmitters finding another way to find the way through. Is there any reliable reading available for a non-professional? What would be your opinion? Many thanks for your answer and help.
Hello,
Welcome back to icliniq.com.
When SSRI or SNRI medicine is started then the drug blocks the reuptake of neurotransmitters by immediate actions and with time, the drug causes changes at molecular levels or at synaptic levels. The receptor upregulation occurs and this results in the constant presence of neurotransmitters in the synapse and reduced degradation. This helps in strong actions and improvement of symptoms. I could not find any good study material in simple language on these but I am trying to make it simple for you. There are newer drugs like Vilazodone, and Vortioxetine which have actions similar to SNRIs or SSRIs but the mechanism of action is different. Even Mirtazapine can be tried in your case which is a Noradrenaline-specific serotonin antidepressant. This drug also has unique actions. Thanks.
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Answered byDr. Seikhoo Bishnui
Medically reviewed byiCliniq medical review team
Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!
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