Anti-anxiety Benzodiazepines

• Central nervous system depressants that work quickly and efficiently in alleviating symptoms of anxiety disorders, benzodiazepines act in the brain by affecting GABA, a chemical that produces a calming effect. These medications include lorazepam (Ativan), clonazepam (Klonipin) and alprazolam (Xanax XR), among others.
  
  The NIMH guidelines for their use should be closely followed:
  
  Benzodiazepines, says NIMH, should not be used for long periods of time, since they are habit-forming and can have serious withdrawal effects if a person abruptly stops taking them.
  
  Since they can cause marked drowsiness, one should avoid driving or operating heavy machinery while taking this type of medication.
  
  Alcohol should never be combined with any benzodiazepine, as it increases the risk of overdose. Additionally, individuals with a history of drug and alcohol problems are at a higher risk for addiction to benzodiazepine drugs.
  
  

SSRI Antidepressants

• Although developed to treat depression, these antidepressants are prescribed often to treat anxiety disorders. The newest and most common antidepressants are called Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors, or SSRIs.These medications increase levels of the neurotransmitter (brain chemical) called serotonin. SSRI-type antidepressants include medications such as fluoxetine (Prozac), paroxetine (Paxil) and sertraline (Zoloft).
  
  Guidelines for use of antidepressants for anxiety are defined by NIMH in terms of dosing and side effects:
  
  SSRI antidepressants take a while to start working. The prescribed medication should be taken as prescribed even if it doesn't seem to be working, since they can take up to six weeks to start producing noticeable anti-anxiety effects.
  
  Dosing of SSRI antidepressants for anxiety is customarily started low and gradually increased over time, to find the optimal therapeutic level. Only a doctor is qualified to make a decision on dosage.
  
  Side effects that may occur, which usually diminish with time, include nausea and jitters. Sexual dysfunction is also a possibility while taking SSRI antidepressants.
  
  

General Guidelines

• For any medication prescribed to treat an anxiety disorder, there are essential general guidelines that explain how to use the drugs safely and with maximum benefit. The ADAA and NIMH provide essential guidelines for the use of these medications.
  
  Anyone taking a medication for an anxiety disorder should tell their physician if they are taking any over-the-counter medications, prescription drugs, vitamins or supplements.
  
  Before medication treatment for anxiety begins, a dialogue between patient and doctor about potential side effects and long-term health risks of the specific drugs should be discussed thoroughly.
  
  Any food or drug interactions with the prescribed anxiety medication should be clearly listed and kept as a record.
  
  Finally, when in doubt---whether about dosage, side effects, or any issue related to the medication---one should consult a physician. The ADAA recommends obtaining the prescribing doctor's after-hours phone number in case of problematic side-effects.