List of anti-anxiety medications
Pro Research Analysisby 
Searched over 200M research papers
Common Classes of Anti-Anxiety Medications
Several classes of medications are commonly used to treat anxiety disorders. The most frequently prescribed include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), benzodiazepines, azapirones, antihistamines, certain antipsychotics, and other agents such as pregabalin and gabapentin 13456789.
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) and SNRIs
SSRIs (such as escitalopram, sertraline, and paroxetine) and SNRIs (such as venlafaxine and duloxetine) are considered first-line treatments for most anxiety disorders due to their effectiveness and safety profile 34568. These medications work by increasing levels of neurotransmitters in the brain that help regulate mood and anxiety.
Benzodiazepines
Benzodiazepines (such as alprazolam, clonazepam, and diazepam) are effective for short-term relief of anxiety symptoms but are generally not recommended for long-term use due to risks of dependence, withdrawal, and side effects like drowsiness and cognitive impairment 1345810.
Azapirones
Buspirone is an example of an azapirone, used particularly for generalized anxiety disorder. It is considered to have a lower risk of dependence compared to benzodiazepines 1348.
Antihistamines
Hydroxyzine is an antihistamine sometimes used for anxiety, especially when a non-habit-forming option is preferred 13.
Anticonvulsants and Other Agents
Pregabalin and gabapentin, originally developed for epilepsy, are also used to treat anxiety, particularly when other medications are not effective or suitable 138.
Beta-Blockers and Alpha-Agonists
Propranolol (a beta-blocker) and clonidine (an alpha-agonist) can be used to manage physical symptoms of anxiety, such as rapid heartbeat and tremors, especially in performance or situational anxiety 13.
Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs) and Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs)
TCAs (such as imipramine) and MAOIs (such as moclobemide) are sometimes used when first-line treatments are not effective, but they are generally reserved due to their side effect profiles 458.
Antipsychotics
Certain antipsychotics, especially second-generation antipsychotics like quetiapine, are sometimes used off-label for anxiety, particularly as adjuncts to other medications in treatment-resistant cases 13679.
Other Medications
- Etifoxine: Used in some countries for anxiety, it has a unique mechanism and is considered effective and safe, especially for patients with neurological symptoms .
- Barbiturates: Historically used, but now rarely prescribed due to safety concerns .
- Newer and Investigational Agents: These include neurosteroids, glutamatergic agents (like ketamine), and cannabinoids (such as cannabidiol), though most are still under investigation and not widely used in clinical practice 36.
Considerations in Anti-Anxiety Medication Use
When choosing an anti-anxiety medication, factors such as efficacy, side effects, risk of dependence, patient preference, and comorbid conditions are important 134810. Some medications, like benzodiazepines, are best for short-term or acute use, while others, like SSRIs and SNRIs, are preferred for long-term management.
Conclusion
A wide range of medications is available for the treatment of anxiety disorders, including SSRIs, SNRIs, benzodiazepines, buspirone, antihistamines, anticonvulsants, beta-blockers, antipsychotics, and others. The choice of medication depends on the specific anxiety disorder, patient characteristics, and potential side effects. Ongoing research continues to explore new and safer options for managing anxiety 13456789+1 MORE.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic