Anxiety attacks, or panic attacks, involve the experience of intense fear and are accompanied by physical distress. During an anxiety attack, the heart rate becomes rapid and breathing is disrupted. Sweating, shaking, dizziness and blurry vision may also occur. Those who suffer from anxiety attacks can take anti-anxiety medications called benzodiazepines to subside or avoid symptoms. Benzodiazepines are particularly effective for these attacks, because they provide relief quickly, typically 30 minutes to an hour.
Alprazolam
Alprazolam, the generic form of Xanax, may be prescribed for the temporary relief of anxiety symptoms as well as anxiety and panic disorders. According to PDRhealth, alprazolam slows down certain chemicals in the brain that may cause drowsiness, a common side effect. Other side effects include fatigue, headaches, weakness, irritability and stomach pain. Alprazolam is highly addictive and can lead to both mental and physical dependence. A physician should monitor a patient's changes in dosage to avoid withdrawal symptoms, such as seizures.
Lorazepam
Lorazepam, marketed under the brand name Ativan, can be used to treat symptoms of anxiety on a short-term basis or individuals with an anxiety disorder. Lorazepam calms down the body by increasing the level of the neurotransmitter, gamma-aminobutyric acid, in the brain. Common side effects include tiredness, weakness and dizziness. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration classifies lorazepam as a controlled substance because of the high risk of abuse and dependence, according to DrugWatch.
Clonazepam
Clonazepam, or Klonopin, is used to treat panic disorder, but is also effective in alleviating symptoms of anxiety on a short-term basis. It is also used to treat certain types of seizures, because it is an anti-epileptic. However, like all anti-epileptic drugs, Klonopin can increase suicidal thoughts and behavior, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Other side effects include depression, fatigue, dizziness, constipation and the flu.
Diazepam
Diazepam, known by the brand name Valium, provides temporary relief of anxiety and is used to treat anxiety disorders. It can also be effective in reducing the severity of symptoms associated with alcohol withdrawal. Drowsiness, fatigue, muscle weakness, constipation, depression, headaches and blurred vision are possible side effects. RxList warns that eating grapefruit while taking valium can increase the level of the medication in the blood.
Chlordiazepoxide
Chlordiazepoxide, known by the brand name Librium, can be prescribed for anxiety disorders, to provide relief from anxiety symptoms or to lessen the effects of acute alcohol withdrawal. Side effects include drowsiness, confusion, nausea, constipation and decreased desire for sexual activity. This drug is considered safer than those mentioned previously, according to Drugs.com, because side effects occur infrequently and can be controlled when the amount of chlordiazepoxide in the body is reduced.
