Which medications should not be taken with anti-anxiety drugs?

Nov 17, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhang Baohua

Introduction

Anti-anxiety medications should generally not be taken with sedatives, hypnotics, antidepressants, central nervous system stimulants, alcohol-containing preparations, or certain antibiotics. Patients must strictly follow their doctor's instructions when taking medication. If these drugs are accidentally taken together or if symptoms such as dizziness or difficulty breathing occur, immediate medical attention is recommended. Sedatives and hypnotics—such as diazepam and zopiclone—can enhance central nervous system depression when taken concomitantly with anti-anxiety medications.

Anti-anxiety medications should generally not be taken concurrently with sedatives, hypnotics, antidepressants, central nervous system stimulants, alcohol-containing preparations, or certain antibiotics. Patients must strictly follow medical advice when taking these medications. If accidental co-administration occurs or symptoms such as dizziness or difficulty breathing develop, immediate medical attention is recommended.

1. Sedatives and Hypnotics: Drugs such as diazepam and zopiclone can enhance central nervous system depression when taken with anti-anxiety medications, leading to excessive drowsiness, coma, or slowed breathing. In severe cases, this may be life-threatening. Sufficient time intervals between doses or dosage adjustments under medical supervision are necessary.

2. Antidepressants: Medications such as fluoxetine and sertraline may worsen neurotransmitter imbalances when combined with anti-anxiety drugs, potentially causing mood disturbances or tremors. Any combination therapy should be carefully managed and gradually adjusted under a doctor's guidance.

3. Central Nervous System Stimulants: Substances such as caffeine and methylphenidate may counteract the calming effects of anti-anxiety medications, reducing their efficacy and possibly triggering irritability, palpitations, or other adverse symptoms. Avoid consuming caffeinated beverages or related medications during treatment.

4. Alcohol-Containing Preparations: Alcohol enhances the central nervous system depressant effects of anti-anxiety drugs, impairing judgment, causing unsteady gait, and increasing risks of falls or choking. Alcohol consumption should be strictly avoided during treatment and for at least 7 days after discontinuation.

5. Certain Antibiotics: For example, erythromycin and clarithromycin may inhibit the metabolism of anti-anxiety medications, leading to drug accumulation in the body and worsening side effects such as drowsiness and dizziness. Inform your doctor beforehand so that dosages can be appropriately adjusted.

When taking anti-anxiety medications, always adhere strictly to medical instructions—do not adjust doses or combine with other drugs without consultation. Disclose all current medications and beverages consumed to your healthcare provider before starting treatment. Attend regular follow-up appointments, and if switching medications is necessary, do so gradually under medical supervision to avoid withdrawal symptoms from abrupt discontinuation.

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Do anxiety medications cause damage to brain nerves?

Anti-anxiety medications generally do not cause damage to brain nerves. These medications, commonly referred to as anti-anxiety drugs, may cause side effects such as sleep disturbances, talkativeness, or excitability during use; however, these effects typically diminish gradually after discontinuation of the drug. Moreover, anxiety disorders are considered mild dysfunctions of brain function and are not caused by nerve damage, so they do not result in harm to the brain's nerves.