Each person may need a different combination of these three elements, and in different sequences. “There’s no magic in the treatment of anxiety,” says Dr. Duckworth. “Some people will get better with psychotherapy alone, while some people might need medication to help them concentrate better on the therapy. Anxiety and depression can decrease motivation to exercise, but medication may give you the energy to do it.” Also, says Duckworth, a patient may need more than one medication.
AntidepressantsBenzodiazepinesBuspironeHydroxyzineBeta-blockers
Within each of these categories, there are subgroups of drugs that work differently and have their own benefits, risks, and possible side effects. “They’re supereffective in treating anxiety disorders,” says Beth Salcedo, MD, the medical director of the Ross Center for Anxiety & Related Disorders and a past board president of the Anxiety and Depression Association of America. It’s not known exactly how SSRIs work on serotonin to alleviate anxiety, says Dr. Salcedo, but what is known is that they’re not addictive like benzodiazepines are (though they can cause uncomfortable symptoms if people stop too abruptly).
It’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions when taking any prescription drug. Talk to your doctor if you’re concerned about the side effects of a medication, or if the drug you’re taking doesn’t seem to be alleviating your symptoms.
Prozac or Sarafem (fluoxetine)Celexa (citalopram)Zoloft (sertraline)Paxil, Paxeva, or Brisdelle (paroxetine)Lexapro (escitalopram)
VenlafaxineCymbalta (duloxetine)
Common side effects of both SSRIs and SNRIs may include:
NauseaNervousness or restlessnessDizzinessReduced sexual desireDrowsinessInsomniaWeight gain or lossHeadacheDry mouthVomitingDiarrhea
Other antidepressants that may be prescribed for anxiety include:
Wellbutrin, Zyban, Aplenzin, Budeprion, or Buproban (buproprion)Tricyclic antidepressants, such as Amitid, Amitril, Elavil, or Endep (amitriptyline); Aventyl, Pamelor (nortriptyline); or Tofranil (imipramine)
RELATED: Meditation’s Soothing Effects “They’re a powerful tool,” says Duckworth, “but you have to be really smart about their use.”
Xanax or Niravam (alprazolam)Klonopin (clonazepam)Ativan (lorazepam)Valium (diazepam)
Other side effects of benzodiazepines may include:
DrowsinessDizzinessNauseaBlurred visionHeadacheConfusionTiredness or fatigueNightmares
DizzinessHeadachesNauseaNervousnessLight-headednessTrouble sleeping
“Beta-blockers can be very helpful but in a limited way,” says Dr. Salcedo. “They are most commonly used for performance anxiety. They are really good for the physical symptoms such as heart racing, sweating, shakiness, but they work less well for the anxious thoughts that might be causing the symptoms.” Additional reporting by Carlene Bauer.
