Side Effects of Anxiety Medication

Medication prescription is a major component of treatment for anxiety-related disorders such as panic disorder or post-traumatic stress disorder. These medications regulate some of the physical symptoms associated with these disorders as well as ease some of the psychological symptoms, making it easier to process talk therapy. As with many prescribed substances, there are some side effects associated with commonly prescribed anxiety medications.

Beta Blockers

• Beta blockers block the receptors that activate epinephrine and norepinephrine in the mind. They are neurotransmitters that are associated with distress or stress in the mind. The levels increase significantly whenever the body goes into "fight or flight" situations. Anxiety disorder patients' brains tend to have increased levels of epinephrine and norepinephrine independent of whether they are in legitimately stressful situations. Thus, some doctors prescribe beta blockers such Lopressor for treatment. Some side effects associated with these medications are coughs, blurry vision and cold hands. More severe side effects include extremely cold hands and feet and allergic reactions on the skin and hallucinations.

SSRI

• Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that helps stimulate positive mood and pleasure. If serotonin receptors aren't working properly, the brain reabsorbs them, causing lower levels. By limiting the brain's re-uptake, serotonin stays in the brain longer. SSRI include commonly used antidepression medications such as Celexa, Prozac, Lexapro, Zoloft and Paxil, which are also used as an anti-anxiety medication. Side effects include reduced libido and premature ejaculation. Ringing in the ears, dry mouth and sleep problems can also occur.

Benzodiazepines

• Benzodiazepines are one of the more common types of medications prescribed to anxiety disorder patients. These medications, which include Xanax and Valium, interact with the body by enhancing the capabilities of the GABA protein, or gamma-aminobutyric acid. It is responsible for inducing relaxation feelings in the muscles and nerves of the body. They tend to promote drowsiness and, in some cases, a hypnotic state. Long-term side effects can include addiction, memory loss and even depression. Other effects are associated with the medication's intended relaxation goals such as poor motor skills and slurred speech.

Azapirones

• Azapirones are sometimes prescribed instead of benzodiazepines because they are not as addictive and do not cause sedation. They work by stimulating serotonin receptors, causing more production. However, they also have the unwanted effect of negatively altering dopamine receptors. Side effects associated with azpirones medications such as Buspar include dizziness, nausea and nervousness. Drowsiness and fatigue are associated side effects when Buspar is discontinued.

Addiction and Withdrawal

• Addiction is a particular concern for those who are prescribed larger doses of benzodiazepines. Sudden withdrawal may also bring on undesirable side effects. For Xanax, these symptoms include vomiting, insomnia and even seizures. Even with slow withdrawal, particularly with Valium, some side effects can occur such as minimal increases of anxiety, irritability, tremors and dysphoria.