Depression, anxiety & mood

Anti-anxiety medications

Here’s a list of the most common anti-anxiety medications (also known as anxiolytics) grouped by category:

Antidepressants. These drugs, particularly SSRI’s, are the most frequently-prescribed treatment for generalized anxiety because they are not addictive. For more information on these medications, please see our article on antidepressants.

Antihistamines. Brand names: Atarax, Benadryl. These are mild sedatives and can be useful to calm sporadic anxiety.

Azaspirones. Brand name: BuSpar. Used in the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder. Reportedly has fewer side effects than most benzodiazepines and does not exacerbate the effects of alcohol. Works gradually over two to four weeks and should be stopped equally slowly.

Benzodiazepines. Brand names: Ativan, Centrax, Dalmane, Klonopin, Librium, Paxipam, Restoril, Serax, Tranxene, Valium, Xanax. Used to treat panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder and social phobia. They are extremely habit-forming and long-term use is not recommended because it can lead to dependence and withdrawal reactions when stopped. Never stop taking these meds suddenly if you have been using them for more than two weeks; you must taper off slowly. These medications should be taken under proper supervision by a medical professional. Side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, headache, and nausea. Do not mix with other medication without discussing potential hazards with your doctor. Do not operate machinery or heavy equipment if you are taking these prescriptions.

Beta blockers. Brand names: Inderal, Tenormin. These cardiac drugs counteract the effect of adrenaline and alleviate certain anxiety symptoms such as shaking, palpitations and sweating. They should be used only under direct medical supervision as they reduce blood pressure and slow the heartbeat. Beta blockers are non-habit forming but should not be taken with other preexisting medical conditions (asthma, congestive heart failure, diabetes, vascular diseases, hyperthyroidism and angina). They are not FDA — approved for the treatment of anxiety but are sometimes prescribed for it.

For more information on mild to moderate anxiety, and on natural methods to relieve both severe and generalized anxiety, read our article on chronic anxiety.

Click here for information on severe anxiety disorders.

Last Modified Date: 04/18/2011