Anxiety is a normal reaction to stress. Sometimes the amount and frequency of anxiety requires medication to treat the symptoms that interfere with a person's ability to lead a normal life. The symptoms and type of anxiety one suffers from informs doctors in making the right choice of medication for treating the anxiety.
SSRIs
A number of medications that were originally approved for treatment of depression have been found to be effective for anxiety disorders, particularly the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). SSRIs are usually well-tolerated and safe without the possibility of overdose or dependency. These medications cause no withdrawal effects unless stopped abruptly. SSRIs do require time for effectiveness, which can take up to six weeks. They can cause weight gain and sexual dysfunction. Medications classified as SSRIs include Prozac, Zoloft, Paxil, Luvox and Lexapro.
Tricyclic Antidepressants
Tricyclic antidepressants, such as Tofranil, Norpramin, Pertofrane, Pamelor, Aventyl and Anafranil, are often effective in reducing panic attacks. Tricyclic antidepressants are well-researched and usually require a single dose. Anxiety symptoms, along with insomnia, tremors or both, may occur for the first couple weeks of initiation of medication. Relief of symptoms takes up to four weeks. A wide range of possible side effects includes dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation, difficulty in urination, postural hypotension, tachycardia, loss of sex drive, erectile failure, increased sensitivity to the sun, sedation (sleepiness), increased sweating and weight gain.
Other Cyclic Antidepressants
Effexor is another cyclic antidepressant used for anxiety, as well as obsessive-compulsive disorder and depression. This medication takes up to four weeks to be effective. Possible side effects include chills, dizziness, muscle tension, insomnia, headache, nausea, sleepiness and nervousness.
Benzodiazepines
Other anti-anxiety drugs include the benzodiazepines, such as Valium, Ativan and Xanax. These can be taken for instant relief of symptoms and do not need to be taken regularly. They can be taken as a single-dose treatment or several times a day for months or years. They are quick-acting with no risk of overdose. Patients can experience the sedative effects, such as drowsiness or lethargy, and slurred speech. This type of medication is not usually prescribed for long-term usage and, if taken over long periods, can produce a loss of muscle coordination and cognitive impairment.
Anticonvulsants
Another medication that is being used as an "off-label" relief of anxiety is an anticonvulsant, such as Depakote, Lamictal or Neurontin. These are epilepsy medications used to treat panic attacks and other psychiatric problems, such as Bipolar disorder. These medications are well-tolerated. Possible side effects usually occur in the first few weeks of treatment and include nausea, vomiting, indigestion, headaches, confusion and drowsiness.
Other Tranquilizers
Other tranquilizers, such as Buspirone (Buspar), are helpful for generalized anxiety. Buspirone is a safe medication that does not cause dependence or withdrawal symptoms. Buspirone is much less likely than benzodiazepines to cause drowsiness and fatigue.
