Drugs to Treat Anxiety

Drugs used to treat anxiety are typically medications prescribed under the supervision of a physician. There are many different types of medications used to treat anxiety, including drugs that normally are prescribed for depression or even high blood pressure. Some of the medications discussed have the secondary effect of relieving anxiety.

Benzodiazepines

• Using a benzodiazepine for anxiety is a common choice if the symptoms are acute, coming on suddenly. Benzodiazepines such as lorazepam, diazepam and alprazolam work quickly to relieve anxiety symptoms and discomfort. Benzodiazepines can be taken on a daily basis or as needed depending on doctor's orders. Benzodiazepines can be addictive and habit-forming, so caution is recommended. These medications are indicated primarily for anxiety.

Noradrenergic Agents

• Taking a noradrenergic agent, including drugs classified as beta blockers or alpha blockers, is another choice for patients. Beta blockers such as propranolol or atenolol help relieve the physical symptoms of anxiety, such as rapid heartbeat or chest discomfort. Alpha blockers such as clonidine and guanfacine work similarly and are particularly helpful in controlling anticipation anxiety in children. These medications are indicated primarily for control of blood pressure.

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors

• Choosing a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) for anxiety is appropriate when symptoms are consistent and chronic. SSRIs are taken on a daily basis for at least one year. SSRIs include medications such as citalopram, fluoxetine and sertraline. The medications in this drug class work similarly to each other. It is observed that if one type does not help a patient, a different SSRI would be a poor choice. These medications are indicated primarily for depression.

Other Antidepressants

• Considering other antidepressants that fall into a class of their own is appropriate if other methods have failed to relieve anxiety symptoms. Medications such as trazodone, mirtazapine or bupropion can be effective for anxiety. Each of these medications functions differently in the brain. Trazodone and mirtazapine help anxiety and sleep. Bupropion also has been indicated for smoking cessation. All of these medications also are prescribed for depression.

Tricyclic Antidepressants

• Taking a tricyclic antidepressant for anxiety symptoms is a last resort for a physician to consider, largely due to the inconvenient side effects common with these medications. Side effects may include extremely dry mouth, increased sweating, weight gain, blurred vision, photosensitivity and fatigue. The side effects of the newer antidepressants (SSRIs) are much less uncomfortable for patients. Tricyclics include drugs such as nortriptyline, amitriptyline and imipramine. These medications also are used for depression.

Antipsychotics

• Antipsychotic medication to treat anxiety often is taken in adjunct to another medication, such as an antidepressants. Antipsychotics work to relieve psychological symptoms of anxiety and help calm the patient. Medications such as risperidone or olanzapine can be taken on a short-term or long-term basis, depending on the needs of the patient. These medications are indicated primarily for thought disorders.