Can anti-anxiety medications cause a feeling of unreality?
Whether anti-anxiety medications cause feelings of unreality depends on individual circumstances. If no side effects occur during medication use, abnormal symptoms typically do not appear. However, if a patient experiences drug side effects, unusual symptoms may arise. Detailed analysis is as follows:
1. No
There are various types of anti-anxiety medications, including diazepam tablets, paroxetine hydrochloride tablets, and sertraline hydrochloride tablets. Since individuals differ in their physical conditions and drug tolerance, some patients who take these medications under medical guidance usually do not experience any abnormalities.
2. Yes
Anti-anxiety medications may cause feelings of unreality or detachment because they affect the nervous system, including both the central and autonomic nervous systems. These medications can alter brain chemicals such as serotonin and dopamine, thereby changing a patient's perception and emotional state. They may also influence physiological responses regulated by the autonomic nervous system, such as heart rate, respiration, and body temperature.
Some anti-anxiety drugs may induce feelings of unreality or dissociation, while others may not. The severity and duration of such side effects vary among individuals—some patients may experience pronounced sensations of unreality, while others may not notice them at all. If adverse reactions occur during medication use, the drug should be discontinued immediately, and medical attention should be sought promptly if symptoms are severe.