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Introduction: 5 Best Anti-Anxiety Medications
Life is challenging; if you have been struggling to deal with anxiety or stress, you may be considering anti-anxiety medications to help you overcome these symptoms. But not all medications may be the right option for your unique treatment needs. It’s essential to know the facts to make the best choice.
Information about the best 5 anti-anxiety medications can help you make the best treatment decision to get back to living your best life!
The Fine Line Between Worry and Anxiety: How to Know When to Seek Help
Feeling overwhelmed, getting anxious, and experiencing physical symptoms of stress such as sleepless nights or trouble concentrating are experiences we all encounter at times. Anxiety is a normal emotional state. It signifies that you are undergoing a challenging time and must take steps to engage in self-care to help you emotionally manage during stressful times.
Temporary feelings of anxiety can be beneficial and can encourage personal growth. It creates an emotional discomfort that motivates you to take action and change your life. Without stress, you might not make changes that will improve your life!
Anxiety can act as a personal alarm system as well. When presented with a danger or threat to safety, your body will respond with a stress response to help protect you.
While anxiety and stress are necessary within the emotional continuum we experience daily, anxiety can sometimes become paralyzing. It can become more than we can manage. It can be scary to think your feelings are outside of your control. How do you know that you might need to seek out more help?
When anxiety becomes so severe that it affects your day-to-day functioning at work, school, or social life, it might be time to consider some professional help to get you back to living.
There are many different types of anxiety disorders. Some signs that the symptoms you are experiencing may be consistent with an anxiety disorder may include:
- Excessive worry
- Feeling restlessness or on edge
- Having a sense of danger or panic
- Feeling tired or fatigued
- Irritability or easily annoyed
- Trouble concentrating or quickly forgetting things
- Having trouble sleeping
- Experiencing physical symptoms such as digestive problems or persistent headaches
- Avoiding activities and places that trigger anxiety
If you have been experiencing symptoms like these for over a few months or if these symptoms are getting in the way of being able to work or socialize, talking with a mental health professional about medications may be beneficial.
You are not alone…
Anxiety disorders are the most common mental disorders and, according to the American Psychiatry Association, affect nearly 30% of adults. And lots of those are seeking additional support, with almost 1 in 4 people taking prescription mental health medication.
But anxiety disorders are treatable. The right combination of treatment options will help you regain control over your life. Anti-anxiety medications can help you overcome anxiety.
The Best Anti-Anxiety Medications for Treating Your Symptoms
Not all medications are the same. When it comes to treating anxiety, some medicines have a sedative effect, while others also work to prevent symptoms of depression that may accompany the anxiety you are experiencing. The bottom line is that there’s a time and place for anxiety medication. If you have severe anxiety interfering with your ability to function, it may be time to seek out medicines as an option-the best thing is that it may be a short-term treatment option.
Even when symptom relief comes with side effects and dangers, that can still sound like a fair trade when anxiety is ruling your day-to-day. But it is crucial to enter this decision well-educated about the best anti-anxiety medication for you.
Five Types of Anti-Anxiety Medications
Many different classes of drugs are commonly used to treat anxiety. Not all medications are appropriate for all types of anxiety or people. Knowing the facts about these medications will help you choose the best anti-anxiety medication. Five common medications used in treating anxiety disorders include:
- Benzodiazepines
- Antihistamine- Hydroxyzine
- Azapirones/Anxiolytics- Buspirone
- Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
- Serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)
Benzodiazepines
Benzodiazepines are sedatives. This class of medicine can help relax your muscles and calm your mind. Benzodiazepines are a popular medication in treating panic disorders and social anxiety disorders as they can reduce the severity of anxiety attacks.
Common benzodiazepines include:
- Valium
- Klonopin
- Ativan
- Klonopin
Benzodiazepines are excellent anti-anxiety medications for short-term treatment but have significant risks. These medications can be habit-forming and highly addictive. A 2018 study into the use of Benzodiazepines reported that 5.3 million (2.2%) adults in the United States misuse these medications out of the 25.3 million (10.4%) prescribed them. Another study found that in people using benzodiazepines for more than 1 month, 47% developed dependency.
Benefits
This type of medication is highly effective in treating symptoms of panic and panic attacks. It produces a calming and relaxing effect that helps people who may avoid anxiety-producing environments or activities. They provide rapid relief that takes effect within minutes of taking them and can be taken only when needed. This is attractive compared to the need to take some anti-anxiety medications every day for full effect.
Risks and Side Effects
In addition to being highly addictive, benzodiazepines come with some additional side effects and risks that are important to consider when exploring anti-anxiety medications. These include:
- Confusion
- Agitation
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Memory Impairment
- Headache
It is also essential to know that there is a risk of overdose and death with Benzodiazepines, which is elevated when combined with other medications, such as opiates, or when used with alcohol. Individuals taking these types of drugs should not drink while using them.
Benzodiazepines can worsen cases of pre-existing depression as well.. Furthermore, benzodiazepines can cause emotional blunting or numbness and increase suicidal thoughts and feelings.
While these potent drugs treat severe anxiety and panic symptoms, they come with many risks. Discuss with your physician if the benefits outweigh the risks for you.
Hydroxyzine
Hydroxyzine is in a drug class called antihistamine. Antihistamines are often used to relieve allergic reactions. Hydroxyzine has a unique effect on Serotonin which is likely why it is the only antihistamine approved for use on anxiety. It works by altering the body’s histamine and serotonin levels, leading to mood changes. This type of medication is typically prescribed as a short-acting treatment option, meaning you only use the medication when anxiety symptoms appear, like taking ibuprofen for a headache. Hydroxyzine is the best anti-anxiety medication for Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD).
Benefits
Hydroxyzine is a good alternative for people looking for fast-acting medications for sudden onset of symptoms, similar to Benzodiazepines. But unlike benzodiazepines, Hydroxyzine is not habit-forming and will not lead to dependence.
Hydroxyzine boosts serotonin levels in your brain by blocking it from being reabsorbed into the nerves in your brain, leading to feelings of contentment, optimism, and an overall sense of well-being.
Risks and Side Effects
Common side effects are generally minimal for most people but can include:
- Blurred vision
- Confusion
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Dry mouth
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Irritability
It is not recommended to drink alcohol while taking Hydroxyzine. Alcohol can decrease the benefits of Hydroxyzine and increase the side effects.
Buspar
Buspirone, also known by the brand name BuSpar. Buspirone is newer as a treatment option for anxiety. This anti-anxiety drug acts as a mild tranquilizer. Buspirone relieves anxiety by increasing Serotonin and decreasing dopamine in the brain. Buspirone is slow acting compared to Benzodiazepines and requires taking the medication for about two weeks to begin seeking effects.
Benefits
Buspirone is commonly used to treat Generalized Anxiety Disorder. It is an Azapirones, an anxiolytic agent that produces an anti-anxiety effect but does not exhibit anticonvulsant, sedative, hypnotic, or muscle-relaxant properties of other similar type of medications. It is effective for short-term anxiety symptom relief and long-term use and management of anxiety disorders.
This medication works by increasing Serotonin and reducing dopamine in the brain, thus reducing anxiety and improving overall mood. A 2006 study found that while Buspirone may be a good treatment option for GAD, however less effective for panic disorders.
Risks and Side Effects
The risks and side effects associated with Buspirone are minimal, with the most common complaints consisting of headaches, nausea, dizziness, and strange dreams.
Due to the type of medication, Buspirone must be taken daily and will take several weeks to take effect. It is important that you do not suddenly stop taking this medicine without checking first with your doctor. Your doctor will likely recommend you gradually reduce the amount you are taking before stopping it completely. Stopping abruptly may cause discomfort from withdrawal symptoms.
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
SSRIs are often the first-line treatment for anxiety. Common SSRI brand medications are Celexa, Lexapro, Luvox, Paxil, and Zoloft. SSRIs work to increase Serotonin, the chemical responsible for mood, sexual desire, appetite, sleep, and memory.
SSRIs are versatile in treating different types of anxiety disorders, including GAD, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD), and phobias.
Benefits
SSRIs are commonly selected as a first-line treatment option in treating anxiety due to the relatively low occurrence of side effects. Using an SSRI can help reduce the intensity of the anxiety symptoms, like turning down the volume of a radio. This allows you to engage in other activities to improve the symptoms, such as participating more actively in therapy. SSRIs also reduce the physical symptoms of anxiety, such as disruptions in sleep, muscle tension, and headaches.
Risks and Side Effects
Most people taking an SSRI report only mild side effects, if any. These side effects frequently improve with time, and most people do not find them severe enough to stop the medication.
Common side effects of SSRIs can include:
- Feeling agitated
- Stomach upset, including diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Blurred vision
- Reduced sex drive
- Erectile dysfunction
SSRIs usually require two (2) to eight (8) weeks before the benefit is felt. It is vital to consult your doctor before you stop taking the medicine. Ceasing the medication abruptly can cause uncomfortable symptoms of withdrawal.
Serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)
Like SSRIs, Serotonin and Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs) are also a first-line treatment option for anxiety. Common name-brand SNRIs prescribed for anxiety include Pristiq, Cymbalta, and Effexor XR.
Benefits
SSRIs and SNRIs can be equally effective options for treating anxiety disorders. SNRIs affect both Serotonin and Norepinephrine. Where SSRIs block serotonin reuptake, SNRIs stop the reuptake of two chemicals in the brain, Serotonin and Norepinephrine. SNRI medications help to balance these brain chemicals, which results in significantly reducing anxiety symptoms.
Research suggests that SNRIs may better treat panic disorders than SSRIs; however, more investigation is needed as other studies have identified no statistical difference between the two medications.
SNRIs have been shown to improve overall mood, reduce feelings of anxiety, and help alleviate panic attacks.
Risks and Side Effects
The risks and side effects of SNRIs are minimal. Often people tolerate SNRIs better than SSRIs, improving the likelihood of taking the medications for an adequate time frame for best symptom improvement.
The most common possible side effects reported for people using an SNRIs include the following:
- Nausea
- Dry mouth
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Excessive sweating
What questions should I ask my doctor?
Be a strong advocate for yourself in choosing which anti-anxiety medication option works best for you. Asking the right questions of your doctor will help you select the right treatment option for the symptoms you are experiencing. Some possible questions to ask might include:
- Does this medication take effect right away? Or take time to be effective?
- What are the common side effects?
- Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking the medication?
- Do I need to make any lifestyle changes to improve how well the medicine works?
- Why do you recommend this medication over the other options?
- If I stop taking this medication, can I stop it at once, or do I need to taper off it?
- Will this medication limit my activities, such as driving a car?
You want to choose a medication that will not adversely affect your lifestyle. If the side effects make it hard to do what you enjoy, it is less likely you will continue to take it. For example, if you struggle to manage a healthy weight and it is something you work hard to maintain, choosing a medication with weight gain as a common side effect will likely not satisfy you.
Anxiety Medications are not your only option!
Anti-anxiety medications are beneficial; however, medications alone may not be the only option to help you. With severe anxiety symptoms, they may serve to “take the edge off” so that you can focus on making the changes in your life that will get you back on track.
Seeing a professional counselor can be very helpful in talking through how to make the needed changes to get back on track with your goals and feel your best.
Some anxiety symptoms can be eased by learning new coping skills or making lifestyle changes. Other non-medication forms of treatment for anxiety include:
- Yoga
- Acupuncture
- Hypnosis
- Mindfulness and relaxation techniques
- Deep breathing
- Exercise
- Support Groups
You Need a Partner in Your Mental Health Care
There are many different combinations of treatment options to help you manage the symptoms of anxiety that you are experiencing. While these are the five best anti-anxiety medications for anxiety currently available, choosing the one that best meets your needs is essential. Talking with a physician or a mental health professional will help you select the right option for you
Featured Image Credit: Photo by Leeloo Thefirst (Pexels)
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