Anxiety
10 min read
Written by Klarity Editorial Team
Published: Aug 8, 2023
Medically Reviewed by Dr. Zoe Russell
If you’re struggling with anxiety, we understand that getting help can seem overwhelming. Making an appointment, taking time off work, and traveling to a doctor’s office can be stressful. Knowing how to get anxiety medication without seeing a doctor in office can be a big relief.
In this article, we explain how to get anxiety medication without seeing a doctor in the office. We walk you through each step, from what you can expect from a virtual consultation to how to get your medication if prescribed.
Klarity Health makes accessing mental health services more convenient and patient-friendly. When you connect with a provider on our platform, you can meet with a provider and get prescribed anxiety meds right from the comfort of your own home.
Find a provider who can prescribe medication and get the anxiety treatment you need without the in-person doctor’s visit.
Online mental health platforms make it possible to access anxiety medication if it’s medically necessary for your care without having to see a doctor in person. With online platforms like Klarity Health, you can find certified healthcare providers from the comfort of your home and schedule a virtual consultation at a time that suits you.
Online consultation doesn’t mean that the quality of care is compromised. Quite the contrary — these virtual visits offer personal, one-on-one interactions with a mental health professional. The process usually involves discussing your medical history, your current anxiety disorder symptoms, and any other concerns.
You’ll be evaluated by the provider and, if appropriate, given a personalized treatment plan. If your treatment plan includes medication to treat anxiety, you can receive your prescription online without having to see a doctor in-person.
A number of different medications may be prescribed to help treat anxiety. These medications fall into a few categories: selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), benzodiazepines, anxiolytics, antihistamines, and beta-blockers.
SSRIs and SNRIs are types of antidepressants often used as first-line treatments for anxiety and depression. They help increase the levels of serotonin or both serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain, which can reduce feelings of anxiety and improve mood.
Benzodiazepines, on the other hand, are more immediate-acting medications that can quickly relieve severe symptoms of anxiety disorders but are generally not meant for long-term use due to their potential for dependency.
Many benzodiazepines are classified as controlled substances, meaning they’re regulated by government agencies because of their potential for misuse or abuse. Developing a dependency is possible and is more likely to occur when someone takes higher doses than recommended or uses the medication for a longer time than prescribed. It’s important to take this prescription medication under the supervision of a healthcare provider.
Anxiolytics, specifically Buspar (buspirone), serve as a unique class of anti-anxiety medication. Unlike many other anxiolytics that exert a sedative effect, Buspar targets serotonin receptors and to a lesser extent, dopamine receptors, which may lead to its anxiety-reducing effects. Buspar is known for its lower risk of dependency and is not classified as a controlled substance, making it a preferable option for long-term management of generalized anxiety disorder. Its subtle onset of action typically doesn’t provide immediate relief but offers a steady improvement over time, with fewer side effects like sedation or mental fog compared to benzodiazepines.
Antihistamines, such as Hydroxyzine, are typically recognized for their role in managing allergies, but they also have sedative properties that can be useful in treating anxiety. Hydroxyzine’s effect on anxiety is due to its ability to block histamine receptors in the brain, which not only helps reduce allergy symptoms but can also promote a calming effect. It is often used as a short-term treatment for anxiety because it begins working quickly and does not have the dependency risks associated with benzodiazepines.
Lastly, Beta-Blockers are usually prescribed for their off-label use to help manage physical anxiety symptoms, such as a racing heart or shaking hands.
Remember, while these medications can be effective in managing anxiety, they’re not a one-size-fits-all solution. Every individual reacts differently to medication, and what works best will depend on a number of factors, including the type and severity of your anxiety, your overall health, and any other medications you’re currently taking.
A qualified healthcare provider, like the ones on Klarity Health, will be able to help determine the right anxiety treatment path for you.
The prescription of anxiety medication is not limited to psychiatrists. Various healthcare professionals can prescribe these medications, like medical doctors (MD), doctors of osteopathy (DO), nurse practitioners (NP), and physician assistants (PA) under the supervision of a doctor.
While these professionals can prescribe anxiety medication, it’s important to note that psychiatrists have specialized training in mental health disorders, including anxiety. They can provide a comprehensive treatment plan that includes not only medication but also psychotherapy, lifestyle changes, and other interventions.
When it comes to treating anxiety, over-the-counter (OTC) medications are generally not recommended. Common OTC medications for anxiety include magnesium, lions mane, L-theanine, and ashwagandha. Prescription anxiety medications are specifically designed to address the symptoms and underlying causes of anxiety, and their usage is carefully monitored by healthcare professionals to manage potential side effects or risks.
With the rise of telehealth services, the traditional in-person visit to a doctor’s office is no longer the only option for medical consultations. Virtual doctor visits provide a viable alternative for those seeking help for anxiety, allowing them to consult with qualified providers from the comfort of their own homes.
Online platforms, like Klarity Health, connect you with qualified professionals who can evaluate your symptoms and, if appropriate, prescribe anxiety medication without going to the doctor’s office.
The process typically involves a virtual consultation where you discuss your medical history and current symptoms. The provider then evaluates your condition and determines the best treatment plan.
If anxiety medication is deemed necessary, the prescription can often be sent electronically to your preferred pharmacy.
Discussing mental health concerns with a healthcare provider can feel daunting, but remember that they are there to help you. If you’re considering asking for anxiety medication, here are some steps to guide you.
First, be open about your anxiety symptoms. Describe what you’re experiencing, how often, and how it’s affecting your daily life. Providing this context helps your provider understand the severity of your mental health situation.
Second, discuss your medical history. Inform them of any medications you’re currently taking, and share your family’s history of mental health conditions if available.
Last, ask questions. If your provider suggests medication, ask questions to understand what the medication is, how it works, how it should be taken, and the potential side effects. This conversation ensures you’re fully informed and can help you feel more confident in your anxiety treatment plan.
Remember, your provider is there to support you. Their objective is to work with you to find the best treatment plan, which could also include therapy, lifestyle changes, or a combination of options.
With Klarity Health, getting anxiety medication without an in-person doctor’s visit has never been easier. As a leading online mental health platform, we connect you with providers who are experienced in managing and treating anxiety disorders.
From the convenience and comfort of your own home, you can have a comprehensive consultation with a provider who will evaluate your symptoms and discuss the best treatment options with you. If appropriate, they can prescribe anxiety medication, and the prescription will be sent electronically to your preferred pharmacy.
Your journey toward improved mental health doesn’t have to be a solitary one. With Klarity Health, you have a supportive team with you every step of the way, focused on helping you manage your anxiety effectively and comfortably.
Schedule an appointment on Klarity Health today.
*Appointments are generally available within 24 hours. Free initial consultations are available only with select providers. Prescriptions, particularly for controlled substances, may require an in-person evaluation depending on the state of residence and current federal regulations.
The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional with any questions or concerns you have regarding your health. Providers on Klarity Health are independent practitioners with clinical autonomy. Nothing in this article is intended to diagnose or treat any condition, including guaranteeing prescription medication of any kind or dosage. Not all providers on Klarity Health prescribe all medications, particularly medications that are controlled substances.
If you’re having a mental health crisis or experiencing a psychiatric emergency, it’s crucial to seek immediate help from a mental healthcare professional, such as a psychiatrist, psychologist, or therapist. You can also call your local emergency services, visit your nearest emergency room, or contact a crisis hotline, such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, by calling or texting 988 or dialing the Lifeline’s previous phone number, 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255) in the U.S.
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