How to Get Anxiety Medication

Consult a healthcare provider

• Schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider, such as a primary care doctor, psychiatrist, or psychiatric nurse practitioner.
• During the visit, be open about your symptoms, how long you’ve had them, and how they affect your daily life.
• This information helps the provider understand your condition and recommend appropriate treatment options.

Discuss medication options

• Your healthcare provider or medical doctor will discuss different types of anxiety medications, such as antidepressants, benzodiazepines, or beta-blockers if medications are deemed appropriate for your recovery journey.
• They will explain how each medication works, its potential side effects, and how it might help your symptoms.
• Be sure to ask questions to fully understand the benefits and risks of each option.

Individuals with diagnosed anxiety disorders

People who have been diagnosed with an anxiety disorder by a healthcare provider are eligible for anxiety medication. Common anxiety disorders include: 

• Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD): This is characterized by excessive worry about various aspects of life.
• Panic disorder: A condition that involves sudden and repeated episodes of intense fear or discomfort, known as panic attacks.
• Social anxiety disorder: Intense fear of social situations and being judged or scrutinized by others.
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD): A condition that includes recurring, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions).
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD): A disorder that develops after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event.

Individuals with severe symptoms

Even if you don’t have a formal diagnosis, if you experience severe anxiety symptoms that interfere with daily life, a healthcare provider may prescribe medication to treat you. Symptoms that might qualify include:

• Persistent and excessive worry
• Difficulty sleeping
• Inability to concentrate
• Physical symptoms like rapid heartbeat, sweating, or trembling
• Avoidance of certain situations due to anxiety

Children and adolescents

• Children and teenagers experiencing significant anxiety can also be prescribed medication, but this typically requires a thorough evaluation by a pediatrician or child psychiatrist.
• The decision to use medication in young people is made with caution and often combined with therapy.

Adults and the elderly

• Adults of all ages can be prescribed anxiety medication. For elderly patients, doctors will consider factors such as other medical conditions and potential interactions with existing medications.
• Adjustments in dosage may be necessary to ensure safety and effectiveness.

Individuals with co-occurring conditions

• People with other mental health conditions, such as depression, may also benefit from anxiety medication.
• Often, treating anxiety can help improve symptoms of co-occurring conditions, making it easier to manage overall mental health.

People who have not responded to other treatments

• If you’ve tried other treatments, such as therapy or lifestyle changes, and haven’t seen improvement, a healthcare provider might prescribe anxiety medication. 

Individuals seeking temporary relief

• In some cases, medication may be prescribed for short-term relief of anxiety symptoms. This might be helpful during particularly stressful periods or events, such as surgery or major life changes.
• Short-term use of medication can provide relief while longer-term treatment options are developed.

Consultation with a healthcare provider

• Ultimately, a healthcare provider decides to prescribe anxiety medication based on a comprehensive evaluation of your symptoms, medical history, and individual needs.
• It’s important to have an open and honest conversation with your provider about your symptoms and concerns to determine the best course of action.

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)

SSRIs are often the first choice for the treatment of anxiety disorders. ¹ They work by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain, which can help improve mood and reduce anxiety.

• Examples: Prozac (fluoxetine), Zoloft (sertraline), Lexapro (escitalopram)
• Benefits: Generally well-tolerated with fewer side effects than older antidepressants, such as tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs).
• Side effects: Nausea, headache, sleep disturbances, sexual dysfunction.

Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)

SNRIs are similar to SSRIs but also increase levels of norepinephrine, another neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood and anxiety. ²

• Examples: Effexor (venlafaxine), Cymbalta (duloxetine)
• Benefits: It can be effective for people who do not respond to SSRIs.
• Side effects: Nausea, dry mouth, dizziness, increased blood pressure.

Importance of professional diagnosis

• A proper diagnosis is crucial for treating generalized anxiety disorder or any other type of anxiety disorder.
• Doctors and mental health professionals can assess your symptoms, determine the severity of your anxiety, and identify any underlying conditions.
• Self-diagnosing can lead to inappropriate treatment, which might worsen your condition.

Prescription medications require a doctor’s approval

• Most anxiety medications, such as SSRIs, SNRIs, and benzodiazepines, are prescription drugs.
• This means they can only be legally obtained with a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider authorized to prescribe medication.
• This regulation ensures that the medications are used safely and appropriately.

Risks of self-medication

• Self-medicating without professional guidance can be dangerous. Using medications incorrectly can lead to side effects, interactions with other drugs, or dependence, especially with medications like benzodiazepines. ³ 
• A healthcare provider can monitor your response to the medication and make necessary adjustments.

Alternatives to prescription medications

While waiting to see a doctor, there are some over-the-counter (OTC) options and natural remedies that might help manage mild anxiety symptoms:

• OTC supplements: Supplements like magnesium, omega-3 fatty acids, and certain vitamins (such as B-complex) can support overall mental health. However, it’s best to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any supplement.
• Herbal remedies: Some herbal remedies, like valerian root, passionflower, and chamomile, have calming effects. They can be found in teas, capsules, or tinctures.
• Lifestyle changes: Regular exercise, a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and mindfulness practices like meditation and yoga can help reduce anxiety symptoms naturally.