Understanding Anxiolytics: Types, Mechanisms, and Potential Risks

Anxiolytics are medications prescribed to prevent or treat symptoms of anxiety disorders and panic attacks. They're also known as anti-anxiety drugs or minor tranquilizers, and their misuse can lead to depence and substance use disorder.

There's a wide range of anxiety disorders, some for which antidepressants might be first-line treatment before anxiolytics are considered by healthcare providers. Anxiolytics are reserved for long-term use when other treatments have fled.

Benzodiazepines act as central nervous system depressants that increase levels of GABA, the neurotransmitter responsible for inhibitory activity in your brn. This effect promotes calmness and sleepiness.

Examples include:

• Alprazolam

• Clonazepam

• Diazepam

• Lorazepam

Buspirone BuSPar is an older drug used to treat chronic anxiety and panic attacks, though it's considered non-habit forming but may require a few weeks of consistent use before showing full effect.

Barbiturates work similarly to benzodiazepines, albeit more strongly. They are effective agnst mild to moderate anxiety and of relaxation that is best suited for short-term usage due to their high potential for addiction.

Some anxiolytics without benzodiazepine structure affect GABA by targeting different mechanisms:

• Zaleplon

• Zolpidem

• Zopiclone

Beta-blockers, usually used for heart conditions, are occasionally prescribed off-label as propranolol to manage anxiety symptoms such as elevated heart rate and trembling. They may be useful in cases of phobia or extreme fear during challenging situations.

Anxiolytics are primarily used to treat conditions like generalized anxiety disorder GAD, social anxiety disorder, panic disorders, and other related anxiety states.

Short-term side effects of anxiolyotics might include:

• Slurred speech

• Low heart rate

• Hypotension low blood pressure

• Irregular breathing patterns

• Memory imprment

• Disorientation

• Depressed mood

• Dizziness

• Impred judgment

• Nausea

• Nightmares

Long-term use can result in more severe side effects, such as:

• Mood swings

• Aggressive behavior

• Vision problems

• Insomnia

• Respiratory issues

• Liver damage

• Sexual dysfunction

• Fatigue

Potential drug interactions must be considered since anxiolytics might reduce the effectiveness of certn medications and pose risks when combined with substances like alcohol or opioids that also depress the central nervous system.

Always consult your healthcare provider before making decisions about medication use and dosage to ensure safe management of anxiety disorders.

this information is provided for general knowledge only. Consult a medical professional for personalized advice regarding anxiety and panic disorder treatments.
This article is reproduced from: https://www.webmd.com/anxiety-panic/what-are-anxiolytics

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