Anxiety Medications: Medication Types And Effects
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Experiencing feelings of anxiety occasionally is normal. For instance, feeling nervous during a first date or a public speaking engagement can be natural, but those feelings usually subside relatively quickly. For people with anxiety disorders, however, the feelings can be so intense and so long-lasting that they disrupt daily life.
Learning the correct type of care and treatment
Anxiety is believed to affect nearly 20% of the adult population in the US, making it one of the most common mental illnesses. There can be many ways to treat chronic anxiety disorders. The best treatment for you may depend on your individual case. Common anxiety medications can include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), beta-blockers, and benzodiazepines. Herbal supplements, lifestyle changes, and therapy may also be helpful. You can start therapy by connecting with a licensed therapist through an online therapy platform. Always speak with your doctor before starting, stopping, or changing any type of medication or supplement.
The BetterHelp platform is not intended to provide any information regarding which drugs, medication, or medical treatment may be appropriate for you. The content provides generalized information that is not specific to one individual. You should not take any action without consulting a qualified medical professional.
About anxiety medications
Anxiety medication is often prescribed to treat anxiety disorders, such as generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and social anxiety disorder. While these medications can be effective for short-term relief and improving mental health, they may come with side effects to be monitored by a doctor. Work closely with a healthcare provider to manage generalized anxiety and other related conditions while balancing the benefits and potential risks of the medication.
Anxiety disorders that may be managed with prescriptions
There are several distinct types of anxiety disorders that doctors may prescribe medication for, including the following:
- Generalized anxiety disorder
- Panic disorder
- Social anxiety disorder
- Separation anxiety disorder
- Acute stress disorder
- Adjustment disorder
- Substance-induced anxiety disorder
- Anxiety related to a medical condition
- Phobias
A doctor can determine which type of anti-anxiety medication may work best with your physiology and the type of symptoms you experience. Therefore, giving your doctor a full medical history and current medication list can be essential. Certain anxiety medications might cause complications if you have other medical conditions for which you take medicine.
When you talk to your doctor about deciding on an anxiety medicine for you, they may ask you if you have a history of:
Heart, liver, or kidney disease
A bleeding or clotting disorder
Seizures or epilepsy
Narrow-angle glaucoma
Bipolar disorder
Suicidal thoughts
A recent heart attack
Seniors, teens, and children typically have different medical needs and may receive different medication recommendations.
Types of anxiety medication
There may be a few popular categories of anxiety medications, often including SSRIs, SNRIs, beta-blockers, and benzodiazepines. SSRIs and SNRIs are the two classes of medications commonly prescribed to treat anxiety.
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
SSRIs work by increasing the serotonin levels in your brain. Rather than giving you a quick sense of calm within about a half hour like some other anti-anxiety meds, these medications are typically designed to work more gently, smoothly, and steadily. However, these medications often take several weeks to show effects as they gradually reduce anxiety.
Serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)
SNRIs are another class of medications commonly used to treat anxiety that works by increasing both serotonin and norepinephrine levels in the brain. They are often first-line options alongside SSRIs to promote anxiety relief. Clinical trials have shown SNRIs to be effective in treating anxiety, although they may have different side effects and interactions compared to SSRIs.
Beta-blockers
Beta-blockers were mainly designed to treat heart problems and high blood pressure. They can also be used off-label to reduce anxiety, especially in stressful situations such as public speaking. Beta-blockers may help most with the physical symptoms of anxiety, such as dizziness, shakiness, sweating, a trembling voice, and rapid heart rate. They are often used as a medication for performance anxiety. Beta-blockers are not habit-forming, potentially making them a safer option for many patients, including pregnant women, under medical supervision.
Benzodiazepines
Benzodiazepines are effective for short-term treatment of severe anxiety and panic attacks, acting quickly to provide relief. However, the risk of addiction and physical dependence on benzodiazepines increases with prolonged use, so ensure you use them under strict medical supervision. Taking benzodiazepines is often reserved for cases where other treatment options have failed or in combination with other medications for a comprehensive treatment plan.
Side effects of anxiety medication
Different anxiety medications tend to work differently. Therefore, you may make yourself aware of the unwanted side effects of anti-anxiety medications. Some medications may have fewer side effects than others, and all people experience medications differently. Talk to your doctor if you notice a new symptom. Side effects of prescription anxiety medication include, but aren’t limited to, the following:
Fatigue
Drowsiness
Insomnia
Agitation
Nervousness
Sexual dysfunction
Headaches
Dry mouth
Weight gain
Diarrhea
Excessive sweating
Increased depression
Reduced sexual desire
Memory problems
Suicidal thoughts or actions*
Certain medications, especially benzodiazepines, may be linked to physical dependence and addiction. If you stop taking these anti-anxiety medications abruptly, you may experience withdrawal symptoms, such as anxiety, insomnia, nausea, and headache. Gradual tapering under medical supervision is recommended, as sudden discontinuation can lead to serious health risks.
Considerations when choosing treatment
After reviewing your and your family’s medical history and conducting a medical examination, your doctor may evaluate a few other areas when determining the kind of medication that may be best for you. They may diagnose the type of anxiety you have, as different medications are often suited to treat different kinds of anxiety.
A doctor may also evaluate the severity of your symptoms and whether you’d be best suited for fast-acting or extended-release medications (or both). They might also determine if you struggle with a substance use disorder and if you experience symptoms of other disorders, like depression. You can also discuss concerns about costs and whether a brand or generic medication label is more appropriate for you.
Other treatment methods for anxiety
Studies suggest that herbal supplements may ease symptoms of anxiety. Supplements are usually widely available over the counter at your local pharmacy or supermarket. These types of supplements typically have few side effects, but they may not be as effective for treating anxiety as prescription medications. Report any supplements you take to your doctor and ask your doctor before trying new supplements, as some herbal supplements can cause complications when mixed with other medications.
Relaxation techniques, such as breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, yoga, and mindfulness meditation, can also relieve anxiety symptoms. These techniques may be helpful supplemental activities to add to your doctor’s treatment plan.
Support options
Anxiety medications have often revolutionized the way that people with anxiety disorders function in the world. For some with severe cases of anxiety, medications can mean the difference between self-imposed isolation and leading a normal life.
Cognitive behavioral therapy for anxiety
Studies show that the most effective form of treatment for anxiety disorders is often cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). A psychotherapist trained in cognitive-behavioral therapy techniques can provide a framework for a workable treatment program where the patient can unearth the sources of their feelings of anxiety to understand them. Once the sources are identified, the therapist may work carefully with the patient to process the feelings associated with them and develop techniques to move past them. The final goal is often to provide the patient with coping skills to handle their feelings of anxiety when they emerge and put them into perspective, thus giving them the tools to live productively on a day-to-day basis.
Despite the effectiveness of therapy in treating anxiety disorders, some people choose not to (or are unable to) go to therapy. The reasons for this struggle often vary and depend on the individual but may include issues around availability and scheduling conflicts.
Alternative support options
For people struggling with the symptoms of anxiety, particularly social anxiety, summoning the strength to leave the house on some days or travel to and from a therapist’s office may be challenging. Some people may not be comfortable speaking to the therapist in person for fear of judgment or personal concerns.
When these barriers arise for those with anxiety, they may choose to speak with a therapist on an online platform, such as BetterHelp. Online therapy allows licensed therapists to work with you from any location with an internet connection at a time that fits your schedule. You can speak with a counselor via phone, online chat, or video call. In general, online therapy is safe and affordable, and studies find that it can be more effective than in-person therapy for treating anxiety disorders and improving quality of life.
Takeaway
Some of the most common anti-anxiety medication options include benzodiazepines, beta-blockers, SNRIs, and SSRIs. However, options like psychotherapy, lifestyle changes, and herbal supplements can also decrease anxiety symptoms, and therapy is typically the first-line treatment for anxiety. It can be easy to match with a licensed therapist and schedule sessions through an online therapy platform like BetterHelp.
Consider seeking support from a therapist online or in your area to get started. Note that BetterHelp does not provide medication management, prescription, or advice. If you’re interested in supplement and medication options for anxiety, be sure to consult your doctor.
What is a good natural anxiety medicine?
Some research suggests that herbal supplements may help ease symptoms of anxiety, but they may not be as effective as medication. You may also try relaxation techniques, like mindfulness meditation, breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, and yoga.
What is the safest anti-anxiety medication?
Everyone reacts to medications differently. Each of the types of medications used to treat depression may have some side effects, but they are all generally safe for the treatment of anxiety and depression and may be used in conjunction with therapy. According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, there are some considerations you should talk to your doctor about before starting a prescription medication.
Let your provider know all the medications you are currently taking, including prescriptions, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, to determine if the medication will react with other medications or substances you’re taking. Some medications may cause anxiety.
Ask whether you should take the medication with food or on an empty stomach, how frequently you should take it, and whether you should take it in the morning or at night. In addition, find out how long the medication takes to start working and how you should expect to feel. For some medications, the effects may take a few weeks to show up. Ask about side effects, if there are any foods or drinks you should avoid, and when you should have a follow-up. Make sure you know what number to call to contact your doctor’s office if you’re experiencing side effects.
You may also ask if you will develop a physical dependence on the medication and should expect withdrawal symptoms if you stop taking the medication suddenly. For example, if you are taking benzodiazepines, your doctor may advise you on their addictive potential and life-threatening withdrawal symptoms and not to stop taking them without medical supervision.
What are calming tablets for anxiety?
Anxiety medications often come in tablet form. Many medications in the benzodiazepine class, the most common medications prescribed for anxiety, come in tablet form. Tablets come in various shapes and sizes and are generally made of a powdered form of the medications pressed into a pill shape. Some tablets may have a coating that makes them easier to swallow, whereas dry tablets have a dull surface that may make them difficult to swallow.
Can I cure anxiety without antidepressants or other prescription medications?
There is no cure for anxiety, but many people can learn to manage their symptoms by working with a therapist. Some research shows that cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is the most effective form of treatment for anxiety disorders. A therapist can help you learn various techniques for coping with your anxiety as well as identify where the anxiety is coming from to understand it a bit more.
How can I calm my anxiety fast without SSRIs or benzodiazepines?
There is no surefire way to calm anxiety fast, but there are techniques you can try. Mindfulness meditation, yoga, deep breathing exercises, and grounding exercises can all help. These techniques may come in handy if you experience performance anxiety and are trying to calm yourself down before giving a speech or presentation.
What incites people's anxiety?
People with anxiety have different reactions to different situations, but common inciting events might be health issues, caffeine, skipping meals, conflicts, financial concerns, stressful situations, social gatherings, or public performances.
How do I know if I have anxiety?
Below are a few common symptoms of anxiety to look out for:
Restlessness or a sense of being keyed up or on edge
Becoming easily fatigued
Difficulty concentrating or experiencing your mind going blank
Irritability
Muscle tension
Sleep disturbance (difficulty falling or staying asleep, or restless unsatisfying sleep)
Is anxiety a form of mental illness?
Yes, anxiety is considered a mental health disorder. According to the American Psychiatric Association, anxiety is one of the most common mental health problems, affecting nearly 30% of people at some point in their lives.
What is the strongest anxiety relief?
The strongest anxiety relief can vary significantly from person to person. Some people may be able to control their anxiety by ensuring they get enough sleep and exercise, while others might seek an anxiety or antidepressant medication and work with a therapist to learn how to manage their anxiety symptoms.
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