Before choosing a medication for anxiety, you need to know your specific anxiety diagnosis. Discuss your diagnosis with your therapist to get a better understanding of what type of medication would work for you.
Basics
Anxiety medication can help relieve symptoms of anxiety; however, it will not help someone get rid of anxiety forever. Symptoms usually return when the person stops taking the medication. For the best results, combine medication with therapy.
Types
There are three main types of medications to treat anxiety: antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, also known as benzodiazepines, and beta-blockers.
Advantages
Antidepressants are usually less addictive and habit forming than anti-anxiety medications. BuSpar is a newer anti-anxiety medication that is less habit-forming than the others. Beta-blockers help with physical symptoms of anxiety, such as trembling and sweating.
Disadvantages
Antidepressants take up to a month to become effective, whereas many anti-anxiety medications work within 30 minutes. BuSpar is the only anti-anxiety medication that takes up to three weeks to become effective. Beta blockers don't help with the emotional effects of anxiety.
Bottom Line
Work with your therapist and doctor to figure out which type of anxiety medication is best for you. You may have to try more than one before you find the best match.
