What Is the Safest Medication for Anxiety?

There are many questions concerning the safety of anxiety medications. Anxiety can be treated without medication, such as with therapy. However, when therapy alone doesn't work, questions about the safety of anxiety medication should not add to your condition.

Identification

• The medications most often prescribed by doctors for anxiety are benzodiazepines. These are tranquilizers that provide temporary relief.

Types

• Examples of benzodiazepines are valium, Xanax, Klonopin and Ativan. They work by decreasing brain activity to effectively reduce panic attacks.

Expert Approval

• Xanax and Klonopin are both approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of anxiety disorders, considered both safe and effective.

Warning

• Mixing of these medications with other substances can be dangerous. According to HelpGuide.org, you never should take anxiety medication with alcohol, prescription painkillers or sleeping pills. Antihistamines also should not be mixed with anxiety medication.

Misconceptions

• Many people feel they will become addicted to anxiety medications. According to the Anxiety Disorders Association of America (ADAA), Xanax and other commonly prescribed anxiety drugs do not cause dependency.

Always Ask

• If you aren't sure about mixing medications, always ask your doctor or pharmacist for sound advice about what is safe or dangerous when it comes to your medication.