Anti-anxiety medications have been used since the 1950s to treat symptoms of anxiety disorders. Some medications can be used as needed, but others require a long-term commitment. Potentially dangerous side effects and interactions may occur, and not all people are able to use anti-anxiety medications due to certain health conditions.
Function
Anti-anxiety medications treat anxiety disorders by acting on chemicals within nerves in the brain. Medications are used because they can act quickly and may be more effective than other types of treatments for anxiety disorders.
Types
Anti-convulsants are used to treat social anxiety disorders.
Benzodiazepines act fast and can provide relief of symptoms within 1 day of use.
Beta-blockers are usually prescribed for heart conditions but can relieve symptoms of pounding heart or panic attacks.
Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) are the oldest type of anti-anxiety drugs and may cause interactions with other medications.
Selective Serotonine Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) are commonly prescribed and do not have as many side effects as other types of anti-anxiety drugs.
Tricyclic Anti-Depressants (TCAs) have been used for years to treat anxiety, but are being replaced by newer drugs with fewer side effects.
Time Frame
Anti-anxiety medications require a wide range of times to be effective at treating symptoms. Benzodiazepines can be effective within 24 hours of the first dose, while anti-convulsants and SSRIs could take up to 4 to 6 weeks to be effective.
Side Effects
Anti-anxiety medications can cause a range of negative side effects and cause potential medical risks. MAOIs can interact with foods and may require a restricted diet. TCAs, MAOIs and SSRIs can cause sexual problems. Benzodiazepines may become addictive, and severe withdrawal symptoms may occur if they are not used correctly.
Considerations
People suffering from acute anxiety attacks may not experience the relief they are looking for from most anti-anxiety medications. Other medical conditions, especially heart problems, may contraindicate the use of anti-anxiety medications. Anti-anxiety medications need to be taken for at least 6 months after symptoms have decreased due to the risk for relapse. Discontinuing anti-anxiety medications should be done slowly over a period of time due to the addictive qualities or risk of worsening symptoms.
Benefits
Anti-anxiety medications may help people to lead a more enjoyable and productive life. Many types of these medications have been in use for a long time and are generally regarded as safe and any side effects or risks are well understood. Some anti-anxiety medications can be taken right before a stressful event to relieve acute symptoms.
Warning
Some anti-anxiety medications may cause birth defects if taken during early pregnancy. MAOIs can cause dangerous changes in blood pressure. SSRIs may cause suicidal thoughts or actions or an increase in symptoms of depression. Symptoms of anxiety can return, especially if anti-anxiety medications are stopped too quickly.
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