Anxiolytics, or anti-anxiety drugs, are a category of drugs used to prevent anxiety and treat anxiety related to several anxiety disorders. These drugs tend to work rather quickly and can be habit-forming. Because of this, they’re usually only prescribed for short-term use. They aren’t recommended for people with a history of substance misuse or addiction.
Anxiolytics work by targeting key chemical messengers in the brain. This is thought to help decrease abnormal excitability. Some of the more frequently prescribed anxiolytics are benzodiazepines. These include:
- alprazolam (Xanax)
- chlordiazepoxide (Librium)
- clonazepam (Klonopin)
- diazepam (Valium)
- lorazepam (Ativan)
Learn more: The most addictive prescription drugs, including Xanax, Klonopin, and Valium »
Primarily, anxiolytics are used to treat symptoms of anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder and social phobia. Some are also used as sedatives before anesthesia for medical procedures.
Symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder include extreme worry or fear that lasts more than six months. Social phobia is the deep fear of social situations, such as meeting new people or speaking and performing in public. Social phobia can cause physical symptoms like profuse sweating and nausea. Over time, this disorder can be paralyzing and lead to social isolation.
Anxiolytics are often combined with psychotherapy or cognitive behavioral therapy. Together, they can help improve quality of life for people with anxiety disorders. For more information, read about talking to a doctor about your anxiety.
Anxiolytics may cause drowsiness or dizziness. Other side effects include lowered blood pressure, slowed breathing, and problems with memory. Long-term use can make side effects worse.
You should use anxiolytics exactly as instructed. Misusing these drugs can lead to severe effects.
Addiction
Some anxiolytics can be habit-forming. You can develop cravings for some of these drugs, especially if you take them for too long. Taking anxiolytics for an extended period can also lead to drug tolerance. This means that after using the drug for a long time, you need more of it to get the same effect.
Withdrawal
Check with your doctor before you stop taking these drugs. If you stop taking anxiolytics suddenly, you may develop withdrawal symptoms. These can include seizures. If you talk to your doctor, though, they can help you taper off the drug slowly and safely.
Overuse
Don’t take more than you’ve been prescribed. An overdose of an anxiolytic drug can result in coma or death.
Many types of anxiolytics help prevent anxiety and treat conditions related to anxiety. These drugs are primarily for short-term use. Long-term use can be associated with severe effects. Some anxiolytics can be addictive. Tell your doctor if you have a history of substance abuse. They may prescribe another treatment. If you’re interested in other options, read these tips for anxiety prevention.