Children suffering from anxiety may require psychiatric intervention along with treatments that include medication. Each medication prescribed may help with specific problems and difficulties. Testing the child will help the doctor decide upon the most appropriate medication. The doctor will guide parents through the process and educate them about the anti-anxiety medication their child is taking.
Alprazolam
Alprazolam, classified as a mild tranquilizer in the benzodiazepine drug group, helps to therapeutically calm the young patient who suffers from anxiety, the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry indicates. This medication works by slowing down brain activity and begins to work within 30 minutes of administration. Common side effects may include clumsiness, memory loss, dizziness, depression and lightheadedness. Some of these side effects classify as serious and the parents should consult the doctor immediately if they occur, MayoClinic.com recommends.
Diphenhydramine
This medication works by causing the central nervous system to slow down, resulting in drowsiness, according to Drugs.com. Physicians may prescribe this medication to produce a calming therapeutic effect. Common side effects include dry mouth and thickening of mucous along with drowsiness. Such side effects classify as non-serious, but parents should ask a doctor if they appear severe.
Buspirone
The anti-anxiety medication buspirone therapeutically treats children with anxiety, according to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. While serious side effects occur only rarely, the most common non-serious effects include abnormal excitement, nervousness and restlessness, MayoClinic.com indicates. It takes approximately two weeks before therapeutic responses are noticed.
Hydroxyzine
Hydroxyzine, classified as an antihistamine, works not only to treat symptoms of allergies but to help reduce anxiety, Drugs.com reports. It functions by causing central nervous system activity to reduce. Common side effects categorized as non-serious associated with this medication include an increased appetite, stomach discomfort, dry mouth and drowsiness.
Clonazepam
Clonazepam, also a benzodiazepine, works as a mild tranquilizer to suppress anxiety symptoms in children, American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry indicates. This medication slows the brain processes down causing sedation. It works in less than an hour. Side effects such as clumsiness, memory problems, confusion and dry mouth may occur.
