What Types Of Medications Are Helpful In Treating Anxiety Disorders?

Srini Pillay, M.D., Director, Panic Disorders Research Program, McLean Hospital

April 16, 2008

Question: What types of medications are helpful in treating anxiety disorders?

Answer: We're very fortunate to have a large number of medications that may be helpful in treating anxiety disorders. The major classes of medication include the SSRIs or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. And examples within this class are Prozac, Paxil, Zoloft, Luvox, Celexa or Lexapro. Another class of medications are the SNRIs which include Cymbalta and Effexor and other medications such as tricyclic antidepressants and MAO inhibitors may also be helpful in treating anxiety.

ABC News Photo Illustration

Apart from these major classes of medications, the benzodiazepines, such as Xanax, Klonapin or Valium, may all be helpful in treating anxiety disorders. Other medications such as anticonvulsants, verapamil and inositol are things to consider if the primary medications are not working.

Next: What Are Antidepressants (Such As Prozac, Cymbalta), How Do They Work, And How Are They Used To Treat Anxiety Disorders?

Previous: I Prefer To Modify My Own Drug Regimen For My Anxiety Disorder Depending On How I Feel. Is There Any Harm In This?