Effects of SSRI Antidepressants Vs. Anxiolytic

Approximately 18.1 percent of American adults suffer from an anxiety disorder each year. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and benzodiazepine anxiolytic medications are available for treating anxiety disorders.

Function

• SSRIs function by increasing levels of serotonin in the brain. Benzodiazepines act by increasing gamma-amino bytric acid (GABA) levels in the brain, which slows down brain activity.

Types

• Common SSRIs include Prozac (fluoxetine), Paxil (paroxetine) and Celexa (citalopram). Common benzodiazepines include Xanax (alprazolam), Valium (diazepam) and Ativan (lorazepam).

Time Frame

• SSRIs are typically prescribed for long-term treatment of anxiety disorders and are taken on a daily basis for managing anxiety. Benzodiazepines may be taken on a short-term basis and on an as needed basis, such as prior to onset of a panic attack in order to prevent or reduce the severity of a panic attack.

Side Effects

• Common side effects of SSRIs include nausea, sexual dysfunction, headache, gastrointestinal disturbances, restlessness, weight gain, increased sweating and sleep disturbances. Common side effects of benzodiazepines include impaired coordination, drowsiness, confusion, memory loss, gastrointestinal disturbances and slurred speech.

Warning

• Alcohol should not be consumed when taking SSRIs or benzodiazepines, since it may lead to increased drowsiness, decrease in respiratory functioning and in severe cases, respiratory failure.

Abuse and Dependence

• Benzodiazepines have a high rate of abuse and may lead to psychological and physical dependence. SSRIs have a much lower abuse potential.