Ongoing anxiousness that interferes with daily activities can be caused by a mental condition called generalized anxiety disorder, report doctors at the Mayo Clinic. Signs and symptoms of the disorder include constant worry about big and small problems, persistent fatigue and irritability. Many people who suffer from generalized anxiety disorder and similar conditions, such as social anxiety disorder or obsessive-compulsive disorder, share symptoms that present as muscle tension, difficulty sleeping and rapid heartbeat. A number of medications, combined with talk therapy, can help people with anxiety disorders.
Buspirone
Buspirone, under the brand name BuSpar, is an anti-anxiety medication that can be taken on a continuous basis. The drug takes about two to three weeks to become effective. BuSpar is a tranquilizer that decreases the amount of dopamine produced in the brain. BuSpar is primarily prescribed to treat generalized anxiety disorder and is not as effective as other anti-anxiety medications for treating various other anxiety disorders. Patients who are prescribed buspirone should attend more intense therapy sessions while waiting for the drug to take effect. Buspirone does not produce serious side effects but may induce mild cases of lightheadedness, nausea, headaches, insomnia and nervousness. Withdrawal effects are minor.
Antidepressants
Brain chemistry is affected by antidepressants, which include popular brands such as Prozac, Paxil and Zoloft. Antidepressants influence the neurotransmitters in the brain that are thought to cause anxiety disorders, report Mayo Clinic doctors. These drugs are among the family of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Side effects of taking antidepressants include headaches, weight gain, nervousness and sexual dysfunction. SSRIs can produce severe withdrawals when discontinued too quickly. Withdrawals can bring on serious states of depression, fatigue, insomnia and physical flu-like symptoms.
Benzodiazepines
Benzodiazepines are sedatives typically reserved for short-term treatment of severe anxiety symptoms. They are fast-acting medications that can take affect in as little as 30 minutes, report researchers at Helpguide, a nonprofit online resource site. Benzodiazepines are helpful in treating panic attacks. Common benzodiazepines include Valium, Librium and Xanax. These sedatives are highly addictive. People with substance abuse problems associated with their anxiety disorder should be strictly monitored when prescribed benzodiazepines. Side effects of the drugs include difficulties with memory and balance, drowsiness and restricted muscle coordination. Long-term use of the sedatives also can lead to depression in some patients. Tapering off benzodiazepines can help reduce withdrawal symptoms that can include shaking, sweating and increased anxiety.
