An Comprehensive Guide to Antianxiety Drugs
Anxiolytics are anti Anxiety medications that treat anxiety disorders. These medications alter the brain's chemical levels that cause anxiety and stress. Antianxiety medications are usually prescribed by doctors when therapy and lifestyle modifications have failed to manage symptoms.
Which health conditions can be treated with antianxiety drugs?
Anxiety medications are often used to treat a variety of mental disorders, such as panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder and obsessive compulsive disorder. They also help with post-traumatic stress disorder(PTSD), social anxiety disorder, and phobias. They may also be prescribed to treat major Depression and bipolar disorder.
Antianxiety drugs: Examples
These are the most prescribed antianxiety medications:
- Benzodiazepines, such as Valium/ Diazepam and Alprazolam /Xanax
- Buspirone ( Buspar )
- Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) (such as fluoxetine/Prozac and Escitalopram / Lexapro )
- Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) (such as Venlafaxine /Effexor and Duloxetine / Cymbalta )
- Beta-blockers, such as Propranolol / Inderal
Experts' or professional opinions on Antianxiety Drugs
Although experts agree that anxiety medications can provide short-term relief for some anxiety disorders, they are not recommended for long term use due to dependence or side effects. Cognitive-behavioral Therapy (CBT), which is a form of talk therapy, may prove to be as effective as some medications for managing anxiety disorder. It could also work better long-term.
Antianxiety drugs can have side effects
Side effects of antianxiety medications include drowsiness and blurred vision. If benzodiazepines are abruptly stopped, they can cause withdrawal symptoms and physical dependence. The long-term use and risk associated with benzodiazepines can lead to falls, dementia and even early death.
- Drooling
- Dizziness
- Vision blurred
- Wet mouth
- Concentration problems
- Weight loss or appetite changes
- Withdrawal symptoms and physical dependence (with benzodiazepines).
- Long-term use of the benzodiazepines can lead to an increased chance of falling, dementia and even early death.
Other Natural Remedies to Anxiety
Antianxiety medications can provide temporary relief but there are natural ways to reduce anxiety symptoms. They include yoga, mindfulness meditation, and exercise. Another alternative therapy that can be used to reduce anxiety is cognitive-behavioral treatment (CBT).
Antianxiety medications can provide a short-term solution to anxiety disorders. However, they are susceptible to side effects and dependence. Other treatments such as yoga and cognitive-behavioral treatment may offer similar benefits but without the dangers. To find the right approach, you should discuss all options with your doctor.