Dicyclomine and Anxiety: A Closer Look
Disclaimer: Though a number of people claim to feel relaxed after using dicyclomine, you need to note that this medication is generally meant for dealing with irritable bowel syndrome, more so abbreviated as IBS. When one experiences anxiety, then that calls for visiting a health professional for diagnosis purposes and the necessary treatment available.
Understanding Dicyclomine
Of late, the drug has been indicated for relief from symptoms such as those brought on by an irritable bowel syndrome. The medicine relaxes the muscles of the digestive tract and hence promises immense benefit in reducing abdominal pain, bloating, and other forms of discomfort associated with IBS.
Dicyclomine and Anxiety: A Possible Link
Though dicyclomine is not indicated for the treatment of anxiety, many patients have reported a sense of calmness or reduction in anxiety post-administration of the drug. The association of dicyclomine with such an effect could be summarized under several headings:
Indirect Relief of Symptoms: In instances when dicyclomine proves to be very effective in managing symptoms of IBS, indirectly it relieves associated stress and anxiety caused by chronic digestive complaints.
Improved Quality of Life: Improved lifestyle owing to a reduction of physical distress leads to a reduction in the levels of anxiety caused by a reduction in stress to the anxious individual. This may be referred to as indirect anxiety therapy
Individual Differences: Like most drugs, people respond differently from person to person. Some find dicyclomine sedating whereas others do not have any variation in anxiety levels.
Not a primary treatment: Anxiety is a contraindication for the use of dicyclomine. Anxiety disorders would, therefore, need professional attention by a specialist in mental health who can effectively diagnose and prescribe appropriate treatment options.
Key Considerations
Anxiety is not treated with dicyclomine. Anxiety requires professional assistance through a psychiatrist or psychologist.
Self-medication is dangerous. Do not start or stop the administration of medications without proper knowledge, advice, and supervision from a medical professional.
Results may vary. The effects of dicyclomine work differently in each person.
Professional Help
Should these feelings of anxiety and the like have been persisting for quite some time already, please do seek professional mental health help on the subject. In that way, you can be properly diagnosed and given the right and effective treatment options which may also include a selection of therapies and medication or both.
Keep in mind that while dicyclomine can relieve anxiety somehow for some patients, it is not a professional cure. You really need to go and see the healthcare professional about how you are feeling.
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