What medications can be given for anxiety?

From the Guidelines

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like sertraline (50-200mg daily), escitalopram (10-20mg daily), and fluoxetine (20-80mg daily) are typically recommended as first-line treatments for anxiety due to their effectiveness and tolerability. When considering treatment options for anxiety, it's essential to weigh the benefits and risks of each medication.

• SSRIs are often preferred due to their relatively favorable side effect profile and efficacy in treating anxiety disorders 1.
• Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) such as venlafaxine (75-225mg daily) and duloxetine (30-120mg daily) are also commonly prescribed for anxiety, as they have been shown to be effective in reducing symptoms 1.
• Benzodiazepines like lorazepam (0.5-2mg as needed), alprazolam (0.25-0.5mg three times daily), or clonazepam (0.5-1mg twice daily) may be used for short-term relief of acute anxiety symptoms, but their use should be limited to 2-4 weeks due to the risk of dependency 1.
• Buspirone (7.5-30mg twice daily) offers a non-addictive alternative for generalized anxiety, while beta-blockers like propranolol (10-40mg as needed) can help with physical symptoms of performance anxiety 1.
• Hydroxyzine (25-100mg up to four times daily) provides non-addictive antihistamine relief for anxiety symptoms 1. It's crucial to note that most anxiety medications take 2-6 weeks to reach full effectiveness, and treatment typically continues for 6-12 months after symptom improvement. These medications work by regulating neurotransmitters like serotonin, norepinephrine, and GABA that influence mood, stress response, and anxiety levels in the brain. When selecting a medication, it's essential to consider the individual patient's needs, medical history, and potential interactions with other medications. Regular monitoring and follow-up appointments are necessary to adjust the treatment plan as needed and ensure the best possible outcome for the patient.

From the FDA Drug Label

Lorazepam Oral Concentrate is a prescription medicine used: to treat anxiety disorders for the short-term relief of the symptoms of anxiety or anxiety that can happen with symptoms of depression

Lorazepam can be given for anxiety, specifically for the short-term relief of anxiety symptoms or anxiety disorders 2.

Sertraline is a prescription medicine used to treat... Social Anxiety Disorder

Sertraline can also be used to treat social anxiety disorder 3.

From the Research

Medications for Anxiety

• Benzodiazepines, such as diazepam, clorazepate, oxazepam, and lorazepam, are commonly used to treat anxiety disorders 4
• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are also effective in treating anxiety disorders, including panic disorder, but may have a delayed onset of action and can exacerbate anxiety early in treatment 5
• Alprazolam and lorazepam have been shown to be equally safe and effective in relieving anxiety symptoms in psychoneurotic outpatients 6
• Sertraline, an SSRI, has been found to be effective in treating panic disorder, regardless of prior treatment with benzodiazepines 7
• Lorazepam and alprazolam have been compared in the treatment of panic disorder, with both drugs showing significant and comparable antipanic efficacy 8

Types of Benzodiazepines

• Long-acting benzodiazepines, such as diazepam and clorazepate, are usually preferred for sustained levels of anxiety 4
• Shorter-acting benzodiazepines, such as oxazepam and lorazepam, are often used for episodic anxiety or panic attacks 4

Considerations for Treatment

• The type and level of anxiety should be assessed before undertaking drug treatment 4
• Short-term use of benzodiazepines is justified in patients with severe symptomatic distress and/or impairment of ability to cope, while long-term use is only justified in patients with chronic severe anxiety 4
• Prior treatment with benzodiazepines does not appear to affect the efficacy of sertraline in treating panic disorder 7