Anxiety refers to a fearful feeling in a certain situation. Some physical symptoms associated with anxiety include muscle tension, headaches, sweating, trouble breathing and stomach pains. Other signs include dizziness, fatigue, irritability, diarrhea and fast breathing. A poor diet, a uncomfortable situations and drugs like cocaine or caffeine can contribute to the onset of anxiety. Fortunately, drugs to treat anxiety exist.
Escitalopram
Escitalopram, commonly sold as Lexipro, acts as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor to balance the chemicals in the brain. This leads to a decrease in anxiety symptoms. Drugs.com says that escitalopram's less concerning side effects include dizziness, drowsiness, impotence, yawning, dry mouth, weight changes, heartburn and constipation. Its serious side effects include muscle stiffness, diarrhea, vomiting, overactive reflexes, tremors, confusion, hallucinations and shallow breathing. Call a doctor when escitalopram leads to these effects. Escitalopram is a tablet taken daily.
Diazepam
Diazepam, commonly sold as Valium, is another medication that decreases anxiety, seizures and muscle spasms. MedlinePlus indicates that diazepam's common side effects include weakness, diarrhea, a dry mouth, appetite changes, fatigue and weakness. In some instances, diazepam also leads to nausea. Some of diazepam's serious side effects include trouble breathing or swallowing, yellowing of the skin or eyes, an irregular heartbeat, seizures, a shuffling walk, a fever and a fine tremor. Sometimes, diazepam leads to a severe skin rash. Talk to a doctor when diazepam leads to these effects. Diazepam is a liquid, capsule or tablet taken one to four times daily.
Alprazolam
Alprazolam, commonly sold as Xanax, is a benzodiazepine medication that reduces activity within the brain and leads to a reduction in anxiety. MedlinePlus says that some of alprazolam's less concerning effects include a dry mouth, trouble urinating, weight changes, fatigue and increased salivation. Alprazolam's serious side effects include confusion, yellowing of the skin or eyes, seizures and hallucinations. Sometimes, this drug leads to memory problems and a severe skin rash. Talk to a doctor when alprazolam leads to these effects. Alprazolam is a liquid or tablet taken two to four times daily.
