A patient with an anxiety disorder has uncontrollable worry, which can cause a racing heart, rapid breathing and chest pain. The severity and frequency of symptoms interfere in the patient's life and can make it difficult to function. Medications, such as benzodiazepines and antidepressants, are prescribed to manage symptoms. All anti-anxiety medications have some side effects, such as dizziness nausea, which should go away once the patient's body adapts to the medication. And while the drugs have benefits, some have certain dangers patients should be aware of.
Addiction
Benzodiazepines, such as alprazolam, clonazepam, diazepam and lorazepam, are central nervous system (CNS) depressants. These medications act on the GABA receptor, releasing the inhibitory neurotransmitter gamma aminobutyric acid. Benzodiazepines relieve symptoms within 30 to 60 minutes, according to Helpguide.org.
Because benzodiazepines act on the same receptor as alcohol, they have a high risk of addiction. Benzodiazepines should be used only on a short term basis and should not be given to a patient with a history of substance abuse. The patient should also be monitored for an increased tolerance to the medication, which also can lead to addiction.
Suicide
Antidepressants--such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), norepinephrine and dopamine reuptake inhibitors (NDRIs), tricyclic antidepressants and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)--also are used to treat anxiety disorders. These medications work by increasing neurotransmitter levels.
Helpguide.org notes that when children and adolescents take antidepressants, they have an increased risk of developing suicidal thoughts and behaviors. The largest risk is during the first and second months of treatment, so the patient should be monitored during that period.
Toxic Drug Interactions
Benzodiazepines can be deadly when combined with certain medications. Helpguide.org states that these drugs become dangerous when the patient also uses sleeping pills, alcohol or prescription painkillers. The toxicity of benzodiazepines increase with antihistamines and fluoxetine and sertraline, two types of SSRIs. A patient who takes a benzodiazepine should check with her doctor first before taking any other medication, both prescription and over-the-counter.
