Benzodiazepines are used to treat anxiety, but they can be addictive and are only prescribed only for short periods. One exception is panic disorder, for which they may be used for six months to a year.
Some people have withdrawal symptoms when they stop taking benzodiazepines, although reducing the dosage gradually can diminish bothersome symptoms. In certain instances, the symptoms of anxiety can rebound after these medications are stopped.
Other medications
If you have been diagnosed with an anxiety disorder, your doctor may give you a beta-blocker for going into a situation where an attack may happen. The beta-blocker can keep your heart from pounding, your hands from shaking and other physical symptoms from developing.
Before taking medication for an anxiety disorder:
- Ask your doctor to tell you about the effects and side effects.
- Tell your doctor about any alternative therapies or over-the-counter medications you are using.
- Ask your doctor when and how the medication will be stopped. Some drugs have to be tapered slowly under a doctor's care.
- Be aware some medications are effective in anxiety disorders only as long as they are taken regularly, and symptoms may come back if you stop the medication.
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