Types of Anti Anxiety Medication
Anti anxiety medication helps manage symptoms of anxiety, such as restlessness, nervousness, fear and uneasiness. It’s often taken in combination with psychotherapy and behavioral therapy to provide lasting relief from these feelings.
Medications are a temporary solution that may be prescribed to you for several weeks at a time to alleviate symptoms while other treatments take effect. They come in the form of tablets, capsules, liquid or an injectable solution and can be taken orally or topically.
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) are often prescribed by doctors for anxiety, and their effectiveness has been demonstrated clinically. SSRIs work by increasing levels of serotonin in the brain, which acts as a chemical messenger.
Benzodiazepines are commonly prescribed anxiety medications that work quickly to relax the brain and reduce anxiety levels. They’re used for treating panic attacks and other intense panic episodes; however, their long-term use is generally discouraged due to potential addiction risks.
Beta-blockers are another type of anti-anxiety medication that inhibits the action of norepinephrine, a chemical messenger in the brain. They’re commonly prescribed to those suffering from generalized anxiety disorder and may need to be taken daily for up to several weeks.
Other anxiety medications include serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). These drugs are usually combined with benzodiazepines to minimize the potential withdrawal symptoms if these drugs were abruptly stopped.
Every person’s level of anxiety is unique and responds differently to different medications. That is why we may try several different medicines before finding one that works best for you.
