Medications for anxiety disorder

Medications for anxiety disorders

Benzodiazepines

Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)

Beta blockers

Buspirone

The following were first introduced for depression but are now widely prescribed for anxiety and panic

Tricyclic antidepressant (TCAs)

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)

Buspirone has been shown to be useful for the treatment of GAD. It works gradually over 2-4 weeks to relieve symptoms of GAD. It does not cause sedation, impair memory or balance, nor does it potentiate the effects of alcohol. It is not habit forming and can be discontinued without causing withdrawal symptoms. The drug is generally well tolerated and the side effects are not usually serious enough to make most people stop taking it.