Antidepressants have been found to work effectively for patients with severe anxiety. In some cases, the various antidepressants help people who have more than one anxiety disorder or who suffer from anxiety and depression. Doctors may prefer prescribing antidepressants instead of anti-anxiety medication for some patients. Some anti-anxiety medications require long-term use. Antidepressants help patients with generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social phobia, post-traumatic stress disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
SSRIs
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, SSRIs, block reabsorption of serotonin, a brain chemical that may affect emotional states. The process leaves more serotonin available to help improve moods. The medication is used for all anxiety disorders. People who suffer from multiple anxiety disorders and depression may benefit from SSRIs. OCD patients usually require higher doses. SSRIs, which include citalopram, fluoxetine and sertraline, are among the newer antidepressants that produce fewer side effects than older drugs. Nausea or nervousness may occur when medication begins, but fades over time. Insomnia, weight gain and sexual dysfunction may result. Adjusting dosages may help.
SNRIs
Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, or SNRIs, block reabsorption of serotonin and norepinephrine, an adrenaline hormone, to provide more of the chemicals and improve moods. Doctors may prescribe venlafaxine or duloxetine. SNRIs work well for generalized anxiety patients. They are considered as effective as SSRIs, but may have side effects of headache, insomnia, sexual dysfunction and upset stomach.
Tricyclics
Long-term use of some anti-anxiety medications that may become habit-forming led doctors to prescribe tricyclic depressants for anxiety. Imipramine works effectively for generalized anxiety and panic disorder, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. The medication is usually prescribed in low doses and increased over time. Clomipramine helps OCD patients. Tricyclics are older than SSRIs and SNRIs. Side effects may include drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth and weight gain, which can be reduced by adjusting dosage.
MAOIs
Monoamine oxidase inhibitors, known as MAOIs, are among the oldest group of antidepressants and are useful in treating some anxiety disorders. Phenelzine, tranylcypromine and isocarboxazid treat panic disorder and social phobia. However, patients cannot eat certain foods or take particular medications when taking the medication because it may increase blood pressure. MAOI skin patches may lower the risk of side effects, the National Institute of Mental Health notes. MAOIs may act wildly when combined with SSRIs, causing a serotonin overreaction that may lead to changes in blood pressure, muscle stiffness, confusion, hallucinations and seizures.
