Sweating, nervousness, a racing heartbeat and fidgeting are common signs of anxiety that can be experienced in certain fearful situations such as taking a very important test or waiting to hear important news. MedlinePlus explains that anxiety becomes a disorder when these symptoms are frequent and occur because of numerous events and situations. Medications can treat this anxiety.
Escitalopram
Escitalopram belongs to a set of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). It treats anxiety by balancing the neurotransmitters (chemicals) within the brain.
According to Drugs.com, escitalopram's common effects include trouble sleeping, drowsiness, changes in weight, a dry mouth, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), impotence and weight changes. Escitalopram also causes yawning, dizziness, constipation and a decreased sex drive (libido). Call a physician if escitalopram's common effects last for more than a week as the dosage can be adjusted.
Escitalopram's more serious effects include vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, a lack of coordination, unsteadiness, seizures and fainting. A fast or irregular heartbeat, tremors, muscle stiffness, trouble concentrating, memory problems, hallucinations and seizures are escitalopram's other serious side effects. Inform a doctor immediately when escitalopram causes these effects. Escitalopram also can lead to worsened anxiety, depression, agitation, agitation, irritability, hyperactivity or thoughts of suicide.
Lexapro is available as a tablet or liquid taken daily or as directed.
Sertraline
Sertraline, like escitalopram, is an SSRI medication. MedlinePlus says its common effects include dizziness, nervousness, weight changes, sweating, a headache, fatigue, diarrhea, constipation and gas. Sertraline also causes bloating, changes in sex drive, shaking of the body, vomiting and a sore throat. Tell a doctor when sertraline's common effects occur for more than seven days.
Sertraline's severe effects include seizures, blurry vision, hallucinations, strange bleeding or bruising, confusion and an irregular or fast heartbeat. In some cases, sertraline can also promote muscle stiffness and a fever. Notify a doctor right away when sertraline causes these problems.
Sertraline comes as a liquid or tablet to be taken once a day.
Lorazepam
Lorazepam is a benzodiazepine medication that works to decrease episodes of anxiety. Drugs.com says that lorazepam's common side effects include fatigue, dizziness, a lack of coordination, vomiting, nausea, forgetfulness and changes in appetite. Lorazepam also causes trouble concentrating, blurry vision, sleep problems and drowsiness. Lorazepam's effects shouldn't last for more than one to two weeks. Tell a physician if these effects last for a longer period of time.
Lorazepam's severe side effects include hallucinations, agitation, hyperactivity, hostility, fainting, confusion and suicidal thoughts, Drugs.com. If these effects occur, phone a physician immediately.
Lorazepam is available as a liquid or tablet that should be taken as a doctor prescribes.
