Posted by Viridis on July 19, 2004, at 0:28:43
In reply to What neurotransmitter is responsible for anxiety, posted by 1980Monroe on July 18, 2004, at 15:50:35
As far as I know, this isn't well understood and can involve multiple neurotransmitters. Norepinephrine seems to be big one, but not the only one by any means.
Benzos help in that they enhance binding of GABA to key neurons, reducing their overactivity in sending "panic" signals when such a response is unnecessary. Multiple neurotransmitters can trigger an inappropriate fear response, and most are interrelated. This seems to be why some people find standard antidepressants calming, yet others find them anxiogenic.
Brain chemistry is a complicated thing, and sorting out individual problems often takes a lot of trial and error. While this going on, benzos can be a big help in easing anxiety, since their effects seem to be fairly consistent.
poster:Viridis
thread:367423
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20040714/msgs/367618.html