According to the Mayo Clinic, a moderate amount of anxiety can be good as it helps you react to and change situations that warrant action. In addition, anxiety can help your response to danger and is the body's way of protecting you from harm. Excessive anxiety, however, is unhealthy and potentially disrupts life. Medications along with psychotherapy and coping techniques help reduce stress and anxiety and manage related symptoms.
Anti-anxiety Medications
Anti-anxiety medications, such as benzodiazepines, are sedatives that relieve feelings of anxiety. These medications are prescribed for short periods of time, as they are habit-forming if taken regularly for long periods. Anti-anxiety medications are intended to assist patients dealing with stressful life events that may cause acute anxiety. According to the Mayo Clinic, commonly prescribed sedatives include Xanax, Librium, Valium and Ativan. Side effects of such medications include unsteadiness and drowsiness; additionally, memory problems are possible when these are taken long-term and in higher doses.
Antidepressants
Antidepressants are also used to treat anxiety and stress; the Mayo Clinic states that these medications influence the activity of anxiety-related neurotransmitters in the brain. Antidepressants such as Prozac, Paxil, Tofranil, Effexor, Cymbalta and Lexapro take several weeks before results are noticed.
Herbal Remedies
According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, St. John's wort is an herbal remedy that has been used for centuries for the treatment of mental disorders, nerve pain, malaria, depression, anxiety and sleep disorders. The herbs can be prepared and consumed in tea form or taken orally as a tablet. St John's wort is available over-the-counter at pharmacies, grocery stores and health food stores. Side effects include drug interactions along with dry mouth, dizziness, anxiety, gastrointestinal symptoms, fatigue, headache or sexual dysfunction. Consult with your health care professional if you take prescription medications before adding St. John's wort to your regimen.
