Anxiety Treatment Options: Classification, Varieties, and Potential Side Effects
Individuals experiencing long-term anxiety symptoms may find relief through the use of anxiety medications. A trusted medical professional can help determine the most suitable option for you.
This article delves into the primary types of anxiety medications and their associated risks and side effects.
What are the main categories of anxiety medication?
Various medications can alleviate anxiety symptoms. The Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA) highlights that there are numerous medications available for anxiety disorders.
Serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
Though SSRIs are typically classified as antidepressants, they can also be prescribed to individuals battling anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
Several medical professionals rank SSRIs as the preferred first-line medication for general anxiety disorder.
SSRIs work by preventing nerve cells in the brain from reabsorbing serotonin, a chemical crucial for mood regulation.
Common SSRIs for anxiety include:
- citalopram (Celexa)
- escitalopram (Lexapro)
- fluoxetine (Prozac)
- fluvoxamine (Luvox)
- paroxetine (Paxil, Pexeva)
- sertraline (Zoloft)
These medications typically display effects within a few weeks, although they may not work for everyone. People typically use SSRIs for 6–12 months to manage anxiety, followed by a gradual reduction in dosage.
These drugs do not usually lead to dependence. Before reducing or stopping medication, individuals should consult their doctor or physician.
Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)
SNRIs, another category of antidepressants, can also treat depression and anxiety. In some cases, doctors may prescribe SNRIs to manage certain chronic pain conditions.
Medical professionals often consider SNRIs to be the first-line treatment for anxiety, although they are less effective in treating OCD.
SNRIs function by inhibiting the brain's reabsorption of both serotonin and norepinephrine.
Common SNRIs for anxiety include:
- duloxetine (Cymbalta)
- venlafaxine (Effexor XR)
Similar to SSRIs, SNRIs may require several weeks to show results.
Further insights on SNRIs.
Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs)
TCAs are an older class of antidepressants. Though they may be effective for treating depression and anxiety, doctors typically prescribe SSRIs instead due to their adverse side effects.
However, TCAs may offer relief to some individuals, especially if other medications are ineffective.
TCAs work by blocking the reabsorption of serotonin and norepinephrine, thereby increasing their levels in the brain.
Example TCAs for anxiety include:
- amitriptyline (Elavil)
- imipramine (Tofranil)
- nortriptyline (Pamelor)
Additional information on TCAs.
Benzodiazepines
Benzodiazepines can help manage symptoms of acute anxiety, providing short-term relief. However, due to their potential for addiction and abuse, they are typically used for brief periods or under close medical supervision.
Common benzodiazepines for anxiety include:
- lorazepam (Ativan)
- alprazolam (Xanax)
- diazepam (Valium)
- clonazepam (Klonopin)
Benzodiazepines can display effects within hours and may last a few days. They should only be used for short-term treatment due to their risk of addiction.
Additional information on benzodiazepines.
After considering various medication options, some individuals might switch to benzodiazepines if their anxiety attacks become more frequent or severe. These medications can provide quick relief from the symptoms of an anxiety attack.
However, it's important to note that prolonged use of benzodiazepines can lead to dependency and addiction, and they should be used with caution and under a doctor's supervision.
