Anxiety medications treat symptoms of severe anxiety such as those found in anxiety disorders; however, Helpguide.org notes that anxiety medications will not treat the cause of the anxiety, and, for the best results, medication should be combined with therapy. Benzodiazepines, antidepressants, buspirone and beta-blockers are four medications that are prescribed for anxiety. Although all have side effects, you should be wary when taking benzodiazepines, as they can be habit-forming.
Benzodiazepine Side Effects
Benzodiazepines work by reducing activity in the brain, according to Helpguide.org. One of the most common side effects is oversedation, due to the slow metabolism of benzodiazepines. Other similar side effects include drowsiness, slow reflexes, slurred speech and impaired thinking and judgment. Vision problems are also possible, such as blurred and double vision. Patients who take benzodiazepines may also experience confusion, nausea, depression and dizziness. In some cases memory loss can occur.
Antidepressant Side Effects
Antidepressants are also used to treat anxiety symptoms, especially selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), which increase the amount of serotonin in the brain. Helpguide.org notes that SSRIS, like Celexa, Prozac, Zoloft, Lexapro and Paxil, are prescribed to patients with generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorders and obsessive-compulsive disorder. SSRIs take four to six weeks to begin alleviating symptoms. Common side effects of antidepressants are weight gain, stomach upset, nausea, nervousness, dizziness, headaches, sleepiness and sexual dysfunction.
Buspirone Side Effects
Buspirone, or BuSpar, is a newer anti-anxiety medication, that increases serotonin in the brain, like SSRIs. Helpguide.org notes that buspirone acts like a mild tranquilizer and takes two weeks to take effect. Buspirone, however, does have less side effects than benzodiazepines. Common side effects of buspirone include dry mouth, nausea, headaches, diarrhea, constipation, dizziness, drowsiness and an upset stomach.
Beta-Blocker Side Effects
Beta-blockers are medications used for high blood pressure, though Helpguide.org notes that beta-blockers are often prescribed off-label to treat the physical symptoms of anxiety; these include shaky hands, rapid heart rate, sweating, dizziness and trembling. Side effects of beta-blockers include an unusually slow pulse, feeling lightheaded, sleepiness and nausea.
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