Anxiety
Medications used to treat anxiety disorders.
What is Anxiety?
Anxiety is a feeling of fear, dread, and uneasiness. It can cause physical symptoms like sweating, restlessness, tension, and a rapid heartbeat. While anxiety can be a normal reaction to stress, such as before a test or an important decision, it can become overwhelming for those with anxiety disorders.
Symptoms of Anxiety Disorders
Anxiety disorders can lead to persistent anxious thoughts that interfere with daily life. Physical symptoms may include a pounding or rapid heartbeat, unexplained aches and pains, dizziness, and shortness of breath. Changes in behavior, such as avoiding activities you used to enjoy, may also occur.
Types of Anxiety Disorders
There are several types of anxiety disorders, including Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Panic Disorder, and Phobias. GAD involves excessive worry about everyday issues, while Panic Disorder is characterized by sudden panic attacks. Phobias involve intense fear of specific situations or objects.
Causes and Risk Factors
The exact cause of anxiety disorders is unknown, but factors like genetics, brain chemistry, stress, and environment may contribute. Certain personality traits, traumatic events, family history of anxiety, and some physical health conditions can increase the risk.
Why It Matters If Untreated
If left untreated, anxiety disorders can worsen over time and interfere with daily activities, including job performance, schoolwork, and relationships.
How Anxiety Disorders Are Treated
Treatment for anxiety disorders often includes psychotherapy, medications, or a combination of both. Psychotherapy can help change troubling thoughts and behaviors. Various types of therapy, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, may be effective. A range of prescription medicines is also available to help manage symptoms.
When to See a Doctor
If you experience persistent anxiety that interferes with your daily life or if you have physical symptoms that concern you, it is important to see a healthcare provider for evaluation and support.
Medications used to treat Anxiety
Several classes of medication treat anxiety. Which is right depends on your health — that is a decision for you and your provider. Compare prices and coupons on any of them:
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Frequently asked questions
What are the symptoms of anxiety disorders?
Symptoms include anxious thoughts that are hard to control, physical symptoms like a rapid heartbeat and dizziness, and changes in behavior such as avoiding activities.
What causes anxiety disorders?
The cause of anxiety is unknown, but factors like genetics, brain biology, stress, and environment may play a role.
Who is at risk for anxiety disorders?
Risk factors can include certain personality traits, traumatic events, family history of anxiety, and some physical health conditions.
What types of anxiety disorders are there?
Types include Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Panic Disorder, and Phobias.
How are anxiety disorders diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves discussing symptoms and medical history with a healthcare provider, possibly including a physical exam and psychological evaluation.
Compare prices for anxiety medications
52 medications — select one to compare prices and coupons.
- Alprazolam
- Alprazolam Er
- Alprazolam Intensol
- Buspirone Hcl
- Chlordiazepoxide Amitriptyline
- Chlordiazepoxide Clidinium
- Chlordiazepoxide Hcl
- Chlorpromazine Hcl
- Citalopram Hydrobromide
- Clomipramine Hcl
- Clonazepam
- Clorazepate Dipotassium
- Diazepam
- Diazepam Intensol
- Digoxin
- Diphenhydramine Hcl
- Diphenhydramine Hcl Childrens
- Diphenhydramine Hcl Sleep
- Doxepin Hcl
- Duloxetine Hcl
- Fluoxetine Hcl
- Fluoxetine Hcl Pmdd
- Fluvoxamine Maleate
- Fluvoxamine Maleate Er
- Gabapentin
- Hydroxyzine Hcl
- Hydroxyzine Pamoate
- Imipramine Hcl
- Imipramine Pamoate
- Lorazepam
- Lorazepam Intensol
- Meprobamate
- Midazolam
- Midazolam Hcl
- Midazolam Hcl Pf
- Midazolam Hcl Sodium Chloride
- Nortriptyline Hcl
- Oxazepam
- Paroxetine Hcl
- Paroxetine Hcl Er
- Paroxetine Mesylate
- Prochlorperazine
- Prochlorperazine Edisylate
- Prochlorperazine Maleate
- Propranolol Hcl
- Propranolol Hcl Er
- Sertraline Hcl
- Temazepam
- Trifluoperazine Hcl
- Venlafaxine Besylate Er
- Venlafaxine Hcl
- Venlafaxine Hcl Er
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Condition information adapted from MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
Medication list sourced from RxClass (MED-RT, U.S. National Library of Medicine). Inclusion does not imply a medication is right for you.
Medical disclaimer: This information is provided for general educational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional diagnosis or treatment. Always consult a licensed physician, pharmacist, or other qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately.