What Prescriptions Are Used for Anxiety?

Excessive anxiety causes people to be afraid of ordinary situations, such as leaving their home, talking to a store clerk, or driving a car. The Anxiety Disorders Association of America (ADAA) reports that a number of prescription medications can be used to treat anxiety disorders.

Identification

• Prozac, Desyrel, and Abilify are all antidepressant drugs that work to treat anxiety by increasing the amount of serotonin, the mood-enhancing chemical, in the brain. Gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA), the brain's natural anti-anxiety chemical, can be increased with medications such as Ativan and Neurontin.

Considerations

• Research any anti-anxiety medication your physician wants to prescribe to assess if it is right for you. Some anti-anxiety drugs such as Ativan can potentially be habit-forming. Prozac and related antidepressants may cause decreased sexual desire.

Warnings

• MedlinePlus reports there are risks related to taking any anti-anxiety medication. Antidepressants such as Prozac and Desyrel can create or increase suicidal thoughts and behavior in people, especially those under 24 years old.

Side Effects

• All anti-anxiety drugs have the potential for side effects. Dizziness, headaches, nausea, and sexual function problems are the most commonly reported side effects.

Insomnia

• Some people with anxiety problems have trouble sleeping due to excessive worry. Ativan and Desyrel can also be used to promote sleep whether or not anxiety is present.