Anxiety manifests differently for everyone, so treatment isn’t one-size-fits-all. If you’re exploring anxiety medications, you’ve probably noticed there are a lot of options. This means there’s likely a medication that suits your specific needs. The trick is finding the right one. Explore the most common medication options for anxiety treatment, when each might work best, and the potential side effects.

The Role of Anxiety Medications

While therapy is an essential component of anxiety treatment, medications can reduce the severity of symptoms. This makes it easier to adopt healthy coping strategies and lifestyle changes. Whether you’re managing generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety, or panic disorder, medication can help you regain a sense of normalcy.

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)

SSRIs are often the starting point for anxiety treatment. These medications work by increasing serotonin levels in the brain. This “feel-good” chemical stabilizes your mood, reduces anxiety, and helps your brain function at its best.

SSRIs are great for long-term management of anxiety disorders. They take time—usually a few weeks—to kick in, so be patient. These medications are generally well-tolerated and less likely to cause dependence, making them a solid choice for ongoing treatment.

Popular SSRIs:

Fluoxetine (Prozac) is the go-to option for panic disorder and OCD.
Sertraline (Zoloft) is commonly prescribed for social anxiety, PTSD, and GAD.
Escitalopram (Lexapro) is frequently used for GAD and social anxiety.

Potential Side Effects

Some people may experience an initial increase in anxiety when starting SSRIs, but this usually subsides as your body adjusts. Other side effects may include:

Upset stomach
Insomnia or fatigue
Sexual dysfunction
Weight gain

Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs)

SNRIs are another class of antidepressants that increase levels of both serotonin and norepinephrine. These medications help balance mood and reduce anxiety while addressing related issues like chronic pain. SNRIs may be a good alternative if SSRIs don’t work or if you’re dealing with physical pain alongside anxiety.

Popular SNRIs:

Venlafaxine (Effexor) is often prescribed for GAD, social anxiety, and panic disorder.
Duloxetine (Cymbalta) is used for GAD and pain conditions such as fibromyalgia.

Potential Side Effects

SNRIs can cause side effects similar to those of SSRIs, as they also target serotonin. However, the additional impact on norepinephrine levels may introduce other issues. Common side effects include:

Nausea
Dry mouth
Dizziness
Insomnia or drowsiness
Sweating
Increased blood pressure

Benzodiazepines

If anxiety medications had an emergency response team, benzodiazepines would be it. These sedatives provide rapid relief for acute anxiety by calming overactive brain activity. Benzodiazepines are best for short-term or occasional use, such as managing situational anxiety or severe panic attacks. They’re not ideal for long-term use because of the potential for dependence.

Common benzodiazepines:

Alprazolam (Xanax) is popular for panic attacks and short-term anxiety.
Lorazepam (Ativan) is often prescribed for acute stress or severe anxiety.
Clonazepam (Klonopin) is effective for panic disorder and long-term seizure control.

Potential Side Effects

While highly effective for short-term or acute anxiety relief, benzodiazepines have a high potential for dependency and other adverse effects. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you experience any of these symptoms:

Sedation and drowsiness
Dizziness
Impaired coordination
Respiratory depression

Beta-Blockers

While not specifically designed for anxiety, beta-blockers help control the physical symptoms of a panic attack, like a racing heart or trembling hands. They work by blocking adrenaline, the hormone responsible for the fight-or-flight response.

If your anxiety manifests physically—like during public speaking or high-pressure situations—beta-blockers can help you keep your cool. They’re not intended for long-term anxiety management, but they’re a lifesaver in critical moments.

Popular beta-blockers:

Propranolol (Inderal) is frequently used for performance anxiety.
Atenolol (Tenormin) is another option for treating physical anxiety symptoms.

Potential Side Effects

When used appropriately, beta-blockers typically have few side effects. Still, depending on your circumstances, they may cause:

Fatigue
Cold hands and feet
Lightheadedness
Slowed heart rate
Nausea or diarrhea

Buspirone

Buspirone is an anti-anxiety medication that works on serotonin and dopamine receptors. It’s a great option for those seeking long-term relief without sedative effects. Buspirone is ideal for generalized anxiety and works gradually, typically taking a few weeks to show results.

Potential Side Effects

This medication is less likely to cause sedation or dependence, making it a safer long-term choice. Still, be aware of the following side effects:

Dizziness
Nausea
Restlessness
Mild headaches

Hydroxyzine

Hydroxyzine is an antihistamine often prescribed for anxiety. It works quickly to calm the nervous system and can also help with sleep. This medication is often prescribed for short-term anxiety relief. It’s particularly useful for people who cannot or should not take benzodiazepines.

Potential Side Effects

While hydroxyzine is generally considered safe and effective, it can cause side effects, such as:

Drowsiness
Dry mouth
Blurred vision
Constipation

Choosing the Right Anxiety Medication for You

Everyone processes anxiety medications differently, so it’s important to tailor a treatment plan to fit your needs. Factors like your specific diagnosis, medical history, and side effect tolerance all impact what will work best. Open communication with your healthcare provider is necessary to find the right medication for you.

Just remember—medication isn’t the only aspect of anxiety treatment. Pairing it with therapy, mindfulness practices, and lifestyle changes creates a comprehensive approach to managing anxiety symptoms.

Why Family Psychiatry and Therapy Is the Right Choice

The team at Family Psychiatry and Therapy knows how personal anxiety treatment is. Our 100% telehealth model is designed to make your journey simple and accessible. Whether through online therapy or phone consultations, our experienced providers are here to guide you. We offer continuity of care, so you’ll always work with someone who knows your story and goals. Our psychotherapy services for anxiety extend to all ages, from children and teens to older adults, ensuring support at every stage of life. Book your first session with a New Jersey-based provider today.