Which Anxiety Medication Is Best for You?

Feeling stressed or nervous from time to time is a normal part of life. But if symptoms of anxiety—like a racing heart or constant on-edge feeling—are getting in the way of daily life, it might be time to ask for help.

At Next Step Psychiatry in Lilburn, we help patients throughout Gwinnett County and metro Atlanta find effective treatments for anxiety disorders. Medication is one important tool, and there are many options available. Here's an overview to help you understand them.

How Medication Helps Anxiety

Anti-anxiety medications can calm fear signals and fight-or-flight responses, helping you feel less nervous and more in control. While they're not a cure-all, when taken in combination with other techniques and therapy, these medications can be highly effective for many people.

Most anxiety medications require a prescription from a doctor or psychiatrist. A psychiatrist has specialized training in psychiatric medications and can help you find the best option for your specific needs.

Types of Anxiety Medications

1. Antidepressants

Antidepressants are often the first-line treatment for anxiety disorders. They work by regulating brain chemicals (neurotransmitters) that affect mood and anxiety.

SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors)

SSRIs are commonly prescribed first because they're effective and have relatively fewer side effects. Examples include:

• Zoloft (sertraline)
• Lexapro (escitalopram)
• Prozac (fluoxetine)
• Paxil (paroxetine)

SNRIs (Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors)

SNRIs work on both serotonin and norepinephrine. Examples include:

• Effexor (venlafaxine)
• Cymbalta (duloxetine)
• Pristiq (desvenlafaxine)

Other Antidepressants

• TCAs (Tricyclic antidepressants): Older medications sometimes used when SSRIs/SNRIs don't work
• MAOIs: Reserved for cases when other options haven't worked; require dietary restrictions
• Atypical antidepressants: Wellbutrin, Trintellix, Viibryd—work in various ways

2. Benzodiazepines

Benzodiazepines provide fast-acting relief for anxiety by targeting GABA, a calming neurotransmitter. Examples include:

• Xanax (alprazolam)
• Klonopin (clonazepam)
• Ativan (lorazepam)
• Valium (diazepam)

3. Buspirone (BuSpar)

Buspirone is often used as a second-line treatment for generalized anxiety disorder. Unlike benzodiazepines, it:

• Doesn't cause drowsiness or cognitive impairment
• Has a lower risk of dependence
• Works gradually over time, similar to antidepressants

4. Hydroxyzine (Vistaril)

This antihistamine has been proven effective for anxiety and is FDA-approved for short-term use. Benefits include:

• Works quickly (within 30 minutes)
• Not a controlled substance
• No risk of addiction
• Good alternative to benzodiazepines

5. Beta-Blockers

Originally developed for heart conditions, beta-blockers can help with physical symptoms of anxiety like sweating, trembling, and racing heart. They're often used:

• Before anxiety-provoking events (public speaking, performances)
• For situational anxiety (like fear of flying)

Common beta-blockers include propranolol (Inderal) and atenolol (Tenormin).

When Should You Consider Medication?

Medication may be appropriate if:

• Anxiety is significantly affecting your daily life
• You're unable to work or maintain relationships due to anxiety
• Self-help strategies haven't been enough
• You have a diagnosed anxiety disorder
• Symptoms are severe or debilitating

How to Choose the Right Medication

The best anxiety medication for you depends on several factors:

• Your specific diagnosis: Different anxiety disorders may respond better to different medications
• Medical history: Certain conditions may make some medications unsafe
• Other medications: Potential interactions must be considered
• Side effect concerns: Some people are more sensitive to certain side effects
• Your preferences: How you feel about taking medication daily vs. as-needed

Working with a psychiatrist ensures you get personalized guidance. They can monitor your progress and make adjustments as needed.

Managing Your Medication

Once you start medication:

• Take it exactly as prescribed
• Be consistent with timing (especially for antidepressants)
• Don't stop suddenly without medical guidance
• Attend follow-up appointments to monitor progress
• Report any side effects to your psychiatrist

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most commonly prescribed anxiety medication?

SSRIs like Lexapro and Zoloft are often the first choice for anxiety disorders because they're effective and well-tolerated.

What medication has the fewest side effects?

This varies by individual. SSRIs generally have fewer side effects than older medications, but what works best depends on your specific situation.

How long do I need to take anxiety medication?

Treatment duration varies. Some people take medication for a few months during a difficult period; others benefit from longer-term treatment. Your psychiatrist will help determine what's right for you.

Can I take medication and do therapy?

Yes! Many people find the combination of medication and therapy (like CBT) to be the most effective approach for anxiety.