Introduction

An anxiolytic (also antipanic or antianxiety agent) is a medication, or other intervention, that reduces anxiety. This effect is in contrast to anxiogenic agents, which increase anxiety. Together these categories of psychoactive compounds or interventions may be referred to as anxiotropic compounds or agents. Some recreational drugs such as alcohol induce anxiolysis initially; however, studies show that many of these drugs are anxiogenic.

Anxiolytic medications have been used for the treatment of anxiety disorder and its related psychological and physical symptoms. Light therapy and other interventions have also been found to have an anxiolytic effect. Beta-receptor blockers such as propranolol and oxprenolol, although not anxiolytics, can be used to combat the somatic symptoms of anxiety such as tachycardia and palpitations.

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.

Mechanism of action

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) and lorazepam (Ativan).

Antidepressants reduce anxiety by increasing the concentration of chemicals (neurotransmitters) that the brain uses to communicate. These neurotransmitters include serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine. Buspirone may reduce anxiety by stimulating serotonin and dopamine receptors on nerves, thereby altering the chemical messages that nerves receive.

Benzodiazepines reduce symptoms of anxiety by increasing the action of a brain chemical called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). GABA is a chemical that nerve cells use to communicate with each other and it reduces brain activity. It is believed that excessive activity in the brain may lead to anxiety or other psychiatric disorders. Pregabalin is an anticonvulsant. Like benzodiazepines, Pregabalin also increases the action of GABA, and this may be its main mechanism for reducing anxiety. Hydroxyzine is an antihistamine that causes sedation. It helps treat insomnia caused by anxiety, and other medical conditions.

Uses

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.

Side effects

Some common side effects of anxiolytic drugs include: Drowsiness, Sedation, Confusion, Dependence and withdrawal symptoms, Stomach upset, Nausea, Diarrhea, Sexual dysfunction, Headache, Suicidal thoughts, Elevated blood pressure, Dry mouth, Blurred vision, Constipation, Orthostatic hypotension, Increased heart rate, Abnormal heartbeat and Weight gain.

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Regards

Mary Wilson

Editorial office

Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology Research

E-mail: pharmatoxicol@eclinicalsci.com