Understanding Anxiety Medications: Types, Side Effects & Treatment Options

Anxiety is a common condition that can prevent sufferers from participating in activities for fear of fear. Medications exist that can help calm anxiety, though they come with some unpleasant side effects. These treatments, however, might succeed when nonmedical methods failed.

Types

• Antianxiety medications fall into two categories: antidepressants and benzodiazepines.

Moderate Side Effects

• Moderate side effects caused by anti-anxiety medication are depression, vertigo, vision problems, distorted thinking, sleepiness, "klutziness" and nausea.

Severe Side Effects

• Some of these medications can have side effects including mania, irritability, anger, poor impulse control and even hallucinations. These might counter many of the benefits of the medication.

Addiction

• Anti-anxiety medication can lead to addiction and abuse. Withdrawal can lead to increased anxiety, sweating, shaking, an irregular heartbeat, sleep difficulties and disorientation.

Benefits

• These drugs can help calm sufferers and can also help avert panic attacks. Patients should ask their doctors about ways to alleviate side effects.