Several types of medications help treat anxiety conditions. Some work on a variety of anxiety disorders and others are used to treat specific conditions. The medicines treat symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder, social phobia, panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder. Some medications are used for a short period to treat mild anxiety symptoms.
Antidepressants
Antidepressants were developed for depression, but have been found to work on anxiety as well. The medicines affect neurotransmitters, brain chemicals believed to be involved in anxiety disorders, the National Institute of Mental Health explains. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs, are among the latest antidepressants and produce fewer side effects than earlier medications. SSRIs help treat people with generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social phobias, obsessive-compulsive disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder. Tricyclics treat people with generalized anxiety disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors treat panic disorders and social phobia.
Antidepressants usually begin at low doses and are eventually increased, depending on the symptoms. They cannot be taken with SSRIs because it may result in confusion, sweating, muscle stiffness, seizures and changes in blood pressure.
Anti-anxiety Drugs
Anti-anxiety medication includes buspirone, which may take several weeks for full effectiveness, according to MayoClinic.com. Side effects may include lightheadedness, headaches, nervousness, excitement, nausea and insomnia. Benzodiazepines are used for acute anxiety and short-term relief. Benzodiazepines work more quickly than antidepressants. They are used for generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder and social phobia. They may be habit forming and have drowsiness and loss of balance as side effects. Side effects may also include blurred vision, upset stomach, confusion and nightmares. Benzodiazepines are usually tapered off slowly, because people who stop taking them suddenly may develop withdrawal symptoms or anxiety responses.
Beta-blockers
Beta-blockers, often used to treat people with heart conditions, work on some anxiety conditions by controlling such symptoms as sweating, trembling and stressful reactions, the National Institute of Mental Health explains. People with social anxiety may benefit from beta-blockers when they are involved in public speaking or an important event that causes them to have physical reactions. They can take the medication for a short time when addressing their phobias. Fatigue, dizziness and weakness may be side effects of beta-blockers. The medication is not normally prescribed for diabetics or asthmatics because their problems can get worse.
