According to the Mayo Clinic, anxiety is a mental condition in which you experience constant worry, restlessness, fatigue and difficulty concentrating. In some instances, you may have trouble sleeping and a fast heartbeat (tachycardia). The exact cause for anxiety is still unknown. However, chemicals (neurotransmitters) in your brain such as norepinephrine, serotonin and dopamine may play a major role in contributing to anxiety. There are specific generic medications that can treat anxiety.
Fluoxetine
Fluoxetine is an antidepressant medication that is typically used to treat anxiety. According to Drugs.com, fluoxetine belongs to a class of medicines called serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). It balances the serotonin levels in your brain and prevents you from exhibiting symptoms of anxiety. Fluoxetine's common side effects include an increased appetite, weight changes, nausea and constipation. It can also cause nasal congestion, a sore throat, impotence, dry mouth and decreased sex drive (libido). Drugs.com indicates that you may develop suicidal thoughts when you initially take this medication. This typically occurs if you are younger than 24 years old. You should inform your doctor if you develop panic attacks, behavioral changes, hostility, aggressiveness, hyperactivity or worsened depression. Fluoxetine is available as an extended-release capsule. Take this medication as your doctor prescribes. It may take at least 4 weeks for fluoxetine to become effective.
Buspirone
The National Library of Medicine indicates that buspirone belongs generically to the class of drugs called anti-anxiety medications. Buspirone's common side effects include lightheadedness, excitement, nausea dizziness and a headache. Its serious side effects include coordination problems, numbness, weakness, sweating and a pounding heartbeat (palpitations) or a fast heartbeat (tachycardia). You must avoid taking buspirone with a type of drug called a monoamine oxidase inhibitor. The combination of buspirone with this type of drug can lead to acute high blood pressure (hypertension). Buspirone is available as a tablet typically taken 7.5mg twice a day or as your doctor instructs.
Clonazepam
Clonazepam is another generic medication used to treat anxiety. Drugs.com indicates that clonazepam belongs to the category of drugs called benzodiazepines. Like fluoxetine or antidepressant medications in general, clonazepam also works to balance the chemicals in your brain. Its common side effects include drowsiness, muscle weakness, fatigue, blurry vision, a headache, a runny nose, loss of appetite, diarrhea, nausea and constipation. Clonazepam's serious side effects include confusion, hallucinations, hyperactivity, suicidal thoughts, seizures and easy bruising or bleeding. This medication is available as a tablet and should not be taken for longer than 9 weeks, as it is potentially addicting.
