Primary Care for Psychiatric Medication Management

If you or a loved one is feeling anxious, hopeless, or disinterested in daily activities, it might be a sign of a mood disorder. These disorders are often linked to a chemical imbalance in the brain, such as low levels of serotonin and dopamine—your body’s “feel-good” hormones. In some cases, your doctor may recommend antidepressants or other psychiatric medications to help manage these symptoms. While medications aren’t a cure-all, they can significantly improve your quality of life.

At AllCare, our compassionate team is dedicated to providing psychiatric medication management (PMM) to ensure you’re on the right dose and fully understand how to take your medication. We’ll take the time to review your symptoms, listen to your concerns, and tailor a treatment plan that fits your lifestyle, ensuring you feel supported every step of the way to recover your behavioral health.

What Are the Types of Psychiatric Medications?

There are several types of psychiatric medications, each designed to treat different mental health conditions. Here’s an overview of the most common ones:

Antidepressants

Antidepressants are used to treat conditions like depression, anxiety disorders, and some chronic pain conditions. They work by balancing chemicals in the brain, such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine. Common types include SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) and SNRIs (Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors).

Anti-Anxiety Medications

These medications are prescribed for anxiety disorders, panic attacks, and excessive worry. Benzodiazepines are a common class of anti-anxiety drugs, providing fast-acting relief, but they are usually prescribed for short-term use due to their potential for dependence. Non-benzodiazepine options, like buspirone, are used for long-term anxiety management.

Antipsychotics

Antipsychotic medications are used to manage symptoms of conditions like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and severe depression. They help control symptoms like hallucinations, delusions, and extreme mood swings. There are two main types: typical (first-generation) and atypical (second-generation) antipsychotics.

Mood Stabilizers

Mood stabilizers are commonly used for bipolar disorder to help regulate extreme highs (mania) and lows (depression). Lithium is one of the most well-known mood stabilizers, while other drugs in this category include certain anticonvulsants like valproate and lamotrigine.

Stimulants

Stimulants are primarily used to treat ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder). They help improve focus, attention, and control of impulsive behaviors by increasing levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, such as dopamine and norepinephrine. Common stimulants include methylphenidate and amphetamine-based medications.