Antidepressants and Minor Tranquilizers to Relieve Anxiety [1]

When talk therapy does not work, or needs a boost, drugs can be helpful, especially the class of antidepressants known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). .

Prozac is the best recognized of these drugs, which work by preventing the brain from reabsorbing too much of the neurotransmitter serotonin, and leaving more in nerve synapses. This helps to improve mood. Another SSRI, Paxil, was recently approved by the FDA specifically for treating social-anxiety disorder. Zoloft has been approved for the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorders, and panic disorder. Each formulation of an SSRI is slightly different, targeting specific subclasses of serotonin.

Side effects vary from one client to another, and may include dry mouth, fatigue, and sexual dysfunction.

A new group of antidepressants, known as serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, may turn out to be even more effective in treating anxiety disorders. The SNRIs target a second neurotransmitter called norepinephrine, which is secreted by the adrenal gland, and plays a role in triggering the fight-or-flight response. This actually increases anxiety symptoms in many situations. But the norepinephrine also helps to control emotion and stabilize mood, and properly managed along with serotonin, may be able to do just that for an anxious person.

Minor Tranquilizers

A problem with antidepressants is that they may not start working for weeks, and that can seem like a lifetime for the acutely anxious person. Because of this, many doctors will recommend prudent doses of fast-acting relaxants such as the Xanex, Valium, or Klonopin to serve temporarily until the SSRIs have a chance to activate. The drawback of these drugs is that they can be very addictive, and only mask symptoms. For this reason, doctors will prescribe them very carefully and strictly limit refills.

If you want further information and assistance, please check our related topics. Also, you can contact a GHE HealthCare, Inc. counselor via our Call Center toll free at 1(866)-443-3277.

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[1] “The Science of Anxiety” Time, June 10, ’02 46