The safest anxiety med is one that has the least amount of side effects and is the most effective at treating anxiety. There are many different types of anxiety medications, so it is important to discuss with a doctor which medication would be best for you. Some common anxiety medications include benzodiazepines, anti-anxiety drugs, and beta-blockers.
Most Benzodiazepines (Xanax, Valium)
These are the oldest and most commonly prescribed class of anti-anxiety medications. Benzodiazepines work by depressing the central nervous system, which has a calming effect on anxiety. Although they are effective, they can be addictive and should be used with caution.
Alpha-blockers (clonidine): These medications work by blocking norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter that plays a role in the fight-or-flight response. Alpha-blockers can cause drowsiness and lower blood pressure, so they may not be suitable for people with cardiovascular conditions.
Beta-blockers (propranolol): These medications block adrenaline and other stress hormones from binding to receptors in the body, which reduces their effects. Beta-blockers can cause fatigue and cold hands and feet. They may also mask some of the symptoms of anxiety, such as a racing heartbeat, so it is important to monitor your condition closely if you take them.
Antidepressants: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are the most commonly prescribed type of antidepressant for anxiety disorders. SSRIs work by increasing levels of serotonin in the brain, which has a calming effect on anxiety symptoms. Other types of antidepressants include tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). Antidepressants can take several weeks to start working and may cause side effects such as nausea, headache, sexual dysfunction and weight gain.
Bupropion (Wellbutrin)
Bupropion is an atypical antidepressant that is also used as an anti-anxiety medication. It is thought to work by inhibiting the reuptake of norepinephrine and dopamine, which results in increased levels of these neurotransmitters in the brain. Bupropion has a lower risk of causing sexual side effects than other antidepressants, and it may be effective in treating anxiety disorders such as social anxiety disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Citalopram (Celexa – SSRI)
Citalopram is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) medication used to treat major depressive disorder and anxiety disorders. SSRIs work by increasing levels of serotonin in the brain. This can help to improve mood and relieve anxiety.
Citalopram is generally considered safe and well tolerated, with a low risk of serious side effects. The most common side effects include dry mouth, nausea, fatigue, and insomnia. Some people may also experience sexual side effects with citalopram, such as decreased libido or problems achieving orgasm.
Citalopram may interact with other medications, so it’s important to talk to your doctor about all the medications you’re taking before starting citalopram. It’s also important to be aware that citalopram can take several weeks to start working and that it’s important to continue taking it even if you don’t feel any immediate benefits.
Paroxetine (Paxil – SSRI)
Paroxetine is used to treat major depressive disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Paroxetine may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
You should not take paroxetine if you are allergic to it, or if you also take pimozide or thioridazine. Do not use paroxetine if you have untreated or uncontrolled narrow-angle glaucoma. Some young people have thoughts about suicide when first taking an antidepressant. Your doctor will need to check your progress at regular visits while you are using paroxetine. Your family or other caregivers should also be alert to changes in your mood or symptoms.