Potent and fast-acting, benzodiazepines have few side effects and are
used for a variety of anxiety disorders. However, patients can develop a
tolerance to the drugs, meaning they would have to take an increased
amount to receive the same therapeutic effect. Because of this, they are
usually prescribed only for short periods of time, except in the case
of panic disorder, when they are sometimes taken for six months to a
year. Though benzodiazepines are very effective, not everyone is a good
candidate for them. People who have a history of drug or alcohol problems
may become dependant on the medication. There are other drawbacks, as
well. Discontinuing the drug can cause withdrawal symptoms, and the
anxiety disorder can return when the drug is stopped. Because of these
difficulties, many physicians do not use the drugs, or prescribe them in
insufficient amounts. The kinds of benzodiazepines include:
clonazepam, used for social anxiety and generalized anxiety disorder
alprozolam, used for panic disorder and generalized anxiety disorder
lorazepam, used for panic disorder
There is also a newer kind of anti-anxiety drug called buspirone, which
belongs to a class of drugs known as azipirones. Buspirone is used for
generalized anxiety disorder, and must be taken regularly for two weeks
before any effect is achieved. Side effects can include dizziness,
headaches and nausea.