FDA-Approved Anxiety Medications: A Comprehensive Guide

Forty million American adults have an anxiety disorder. While anti-anxiety drugs have been used since the early 20th century, the Food and Drug Administration has approved medications in recent decades that have made great strides in successfully treating anxiety disorders.

Types

• Some of the most popular and effective anti-anxiety medications approved by the FDA include Zoloft, Lexapro, Paxil, Cymbalta and Luvox.

Considerations

• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are generally considered the safest and most effective medication choice to relieve symptoms of social anxiety.

Function

• SSRIs work by supporting brain receptors in keeping glutamate, an organic compound that excites the brain, in check.

Effectiveness

• Anxiety medications usually take a few weeks to take effect. They also usually work best when accompanied by counseling.

Side Effects

• You may be more or less likely to experience a side effect, depending on which medication you use. Some side effects with SSRIs include nausea, sexual dysfunction, headache, restlessness, dry mouth or diarrhea.