Anxiety disorders are common and can be quite troublesome. Fortunately, there are numerous medicinal options for treatment. The group of anxiety disorders includes post-traumatic stress disorder, panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved a number of medications for such disorders.
Antidepressants
Many medicines used to treat depression can also be used to treat anxiety. Selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are commonly prescribed for this indication. This category includes drugs such as escitalopram, fluoxetine, paroxetine and sertraline. A related group of drugs, the serotonin and norepinephrine re-uptake inhibitors (SNRIs), includes duloxetine and venlafaxine. None of these agents have been proven superior to the others. Which to prescribe is commonly based on cost, the drugs particular side effect profile, and the individual's specific circumstances.
All of these medications need to be taken daily as a maintenance regimen. They are not intended to be used on an as needed basis. Possible side effects include gastrointestinal upset, headache, sexual dysfunction and weight gain. In addition, side effects such as agitation and sleep disturbance could be mistaken for symptoms of anxiety. Abrupt discontinuation after treatment for more than a few weeks may also lead to similar effects. At times these medications may be used in combination with other anti-anxiety drugs, especially the benzodiazepines.
Benzodiazepines
These are some of the most common medications used to treat anxiety disorders. The list includes alprazolam, chlordiazepoxide, clonazepam, clorazepate and lorazepam.
Some of these drugs, such as alprazolam and lorazepam, are short-acting and often are taken just when needed, for example, immediately before an anxiety-producing event. However, the others on this list are longer acting and usually taken on an ongoing schedule. These drugs tend to be equivalent in terms of effectiveness, so a particular drug is usually prescribed based on its length of action and cost.
Benzodiazepines may cause sedation, fatigue and alter normal sleep patterns. The elderly tend to be more sensitive to these side effects. All of these drugs have some potential for dependence or abuse. Again, withdrawal from long-term use should be gradual to prevent re-emergence of anxiety symptoms.
Others
Buspirone is a medicine with a unique mechanism that can help relieve symptoms of anxiety. It is most often taken every day to keep anxiousness at bay. Possible side effects include dizziness, nervousness, or emotional upset. This medicine does not carry the risk of addiction.
Hydroxyzine is an antihistamine that can be useful in the treatment of anxiety. It is short-acting and can be taken before, or at, the first sign of symptoms. The main side effects tend to be fatigue and dry mouth. There is no concern for dependence or withdrawal.
