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Generally, most psychiatrists will prescribe benzodiazepines for anxiety, with the most popular being Ativan (lorazepam) and Xanax (alprazolam). While these medications are usually the first choice, there are however different options used that were not originally created to treat anxiety.

Certain antidepressants are also used in the treatment of anxiety. These medications are different from anti-anxiety medications in several different ways such as a low risk of dependency and abuse. In addition, antidepressants can take anywhere from four to six weeks to fully take effect. These medications can not be used for sudden symptoms of anxiety either.

SSRIs are the most commonly prescribed antidepressants to treat anxiety. SSRIs or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors include Prozac, Zoloft, Paxil, Celexa, and Lexapro. These medications are used to treat both generalized and severe anxiety such as OCD or obsessive compulsive disorder. As with all prescription medications, there are some risks of side effects. The most common side effects include weight gain, stomach upset and nausea, sexual problems, sleepiness and dizziness, nervousness, and headaches. In addition, there are reported cases of more severe side effects which include suicidal thoughts, hostility, and aggression. An additional risk involved with taking antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications is their ability to actually increase symptoms in both disorders.

SSRIs:

These medications are used to treat anxiety by correcting the chemical imbalance in the brain involving serotonin. SSRIs accomplish this by making more of the neurotransmitter available to the receptor sites of the post-synaptic nerve.

Buspirone (BuSpar) is a newer anti-anxiety drug that acts like an SSRI by increasing serotonin in the brain (subsequently reducing brain activity). BuSpar also reduces dopamine, a neurotransmitter (also a medicated substance) that increases heart rate and blood pressure. It starts working in half the time of antidepressant drugs, and lacks many of the side effects of anti-anxiety drugs, such as sedation. BuSpar also doesnt cause loss of memory or coordination and is not habit-forming, two problems with drugs such as Ativan. BuSpars effectiveness is limited to generalized anxiety disorder.

Since prolonged anxiety can lead to high blood pressure and heart problems, beta blockers are sometimes prescribed to treat these problems. They also help deal with physical symptoms of anxiety, such as dizziness, sweating, trembling voice, and rapid heart rate. Beta blockers are best for phobias. Side effects of beta blocker use include nausea, sleepiness, lightheadedness, and a very slow pulse.

Your doctor will be able to determine whether medications such as the ones listed above are necessary. He or she will ask you a series of questions as well as perform some physical tests to decide which medication will befit you the most. It is very important that these drugs take time to work at their optimum capacity and there may be a series of medication changes dependent upon any side effects endured.

Funmi Salami is a reputable editor and featured writer on Clivir.com where she provides and shares more information about Fear Anxiety Disorder and other information about Anxiety Disorder and Chronic Insomnia.