WHAT ARE ANXIOLYTICS?
Definition: Anxiolytics, also known as anti-anxiety medications, are drugs that help reduce anxiety symptoms. They work by affecting neurotransmitters in the brain to induce a calming effect. Purpose: Used to treat various anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, and specific phobias.
TYPES OF ANXIOLYTICS
BENZODIAZEPINES Common Drugs: Diazepam (Valium), Alprazolam (Xanax), Lorazepam (Ativan), Clonazepam (Klonopin). Mechanism of Action: Enhance the effect of the neurotransmitter GABA, producing a calming effect. Uses: Short-term relief of severe anxiety symptoms, panic attacks. Side Effects: Drowsiness, dizziness, dependence, withdrawal symptoms. Image: Structure of a benzodiazepine molecule. Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) Common Drugs: Fluoxetine (Prozac), Sertraline (Zoloft), Escitalopram (Lexapro). Mechanism of Action: Increase levels of serotonin in the brain by inhibiting its reuptake. Uses: Long-term treatment of anxiety disorders, depression. Side Effects: Nausea, headache, sexual dysfunction, insomnia. Image: Illustration of serotonin reuptake inhibition. Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs) Common Drugs: Venlafaxine (Effexor), Duloxetine (Cymbalta). Mechanism of Action: Increase levels of serotonin and norepinephrine by inhibiting their reuptake. Uses: Long-term treatment of anxiety disorders, depression. Side Effects: Nausea, dry mouth, dizziness, increased blood pressure. Image: Illustration of serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibition. Buspirone Mechanism of Action: Affects serotonin and dopamine receptors in the brain, providing an anti-anxiety effect without the sedation of benzodiazepines. Uses: Long-term treatment of generalized anxiety disorder. Side Effects: Dizziness, headaches, nausea, restlessness.
RISKS AND SIDE EFFECTS OF ANXIOLYTICS
Common Side Effects: Drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, headaches, weight gain. Dependence and Withdrawal: Particularly with benzodiazepines, risk of physical dependence and withdrawal symptoms. Interaction with Other Medications: Potential interactions with other drugs, including alcohol. Long-Term Use Concerns: Potential cognitive impairment, tolerance development.