What medications are best for anxiety disorder?

Anxiety disorders are commonly treated with medications such as sertraline tablets, paroxetine tablets, escitalopram tablets, buspirone tablets, and lorazepam tablets. Anti-anxiety medications are prescription-only drugs; selection must be individualized by a physician based on the patient’s specific clinical condition. If symptoms such as persistent palpitations, panic attacks, severe insomnia, or significant impairment in daily functioning occur, prompt medical evaluation and treatment at a hospital are essential.

1. Sertraline tablets: A selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), primarily used for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and anxiety states comorbid with depression. It helps alleviate persistent tension and worry, and reduces somatic discomfort. Clinical effects typically take several weeks to manifest. Initial side effects may include mild nausea or dizziness; dosage adjustments should follow physician guidance and be implemented gradually.

2. Paroxetine tablets: Indicated for generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, and panic disorder. It effectively reduces unexplained tension and fear, and improves somatic symptoms such as palpitations and sweating. Some patients may experience drowsiness or dry mouth. Abrupt discontinuation is contraindicated; tapering must be conducted gradually under medical supervision.

3. Escitalopram tablets: Generally well-tolerated, particularly suitable for anxiety accompanied by depressive symptoms. It helps reduce excessive rumination, restlessness, and sleep disturbances. Its onset of action is relatively slow; a minority of patients may experience transient irritability during initial treatment. Consistent follow-up visits are necessary to monitor response and adjust dosage accordingly.

4. Buspirone tablets: A non-benzodiazepine anxiolytic agent indicated for generalized anxiety disorder, targeting psychological symptoms such as mental tension and unease. Unlike benzodiazepines, it lacks pronounced sedative or hypnotic effects and carries no risk of dependence. Therapeutic benefits require consistent administration over time. Contraindicated in patients with glaucoma or myasthenia gravis.

5. Lorazepam tablets: A benzodiazepine that provides rapid relief from acute anxiety and panic attack–associated symptoms such as palpitations and distress. It exerts strong sedative effects and carries potential for dependence; therefore, it is recommended only for short-term use. Long-term self-administration is strictly prohibited. Discontinuation requires gradual dose reduction under medical supervision.

In daily life, regular physical exercise and relaxation training can help reduce excessive rumination. During pharmacotherapy, strict adherence to psychiatric specialist guidance is mandatory—patients must not alter dosage or discontinue medication without authorization. Regular follow-up visits are essential to assess disease progression and treatment response.