There are several medications that may be more effective for long-term treatment of anxiety than Xanax (alprazolam), which is typically recommended for short-term use due to the risk of dependence, tolerance, and withdrawal symptoms. Here are some medications that may be more effective for long-term treatment of anxiety:
- Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs): These medications are a type of antidepressant that can be effective for treating anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, and panic disorder. Examples of SSRIs include fluoxetine (Prozac), sertraline (Zoloft), and escitalopram (Lexapro).
- Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs): These medications are another type of antidepressant that can be effective for treating anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder and panic disorder. Examples of SNRIs include venlafaxine (Effexor) and duloxetine (Cymbalta).
- Buspirone: This medication is an anti-anxiety medication that is not a benzodiazepine and therefore has a lower risk of dependence and withdrawal symptoms. Buspirone is typically used for long-term treatment of generalized anxiety disorder.
- Beta-blockers: These medications are typically used to treat high blood pressure and heart conditions, but they can also be used to treat performance anxiety or social anxiety disorder by reducing the physical symptoms of anxiety, such as rapid heartbeat and trembling. Examples of beta-blockers include propranolol (Inderal) and atenolol (Tenormin).
It is important to discuss any concerns about anxiety symptoms with a healthcare provider, who can help determine the most appropriate treatment plan based on individual needs and medical history. Regular monitoring and screening for potential side effects may also be recommended for individuals taking medications for anxiety disorders.
There are various forms of drugs available, such as tablets or liquids, and each may have a separate patient information leaflet (PIL) for different doses. It is important to refer to the PIL for the specific form and dose of the drug that you have been prescribed.
You can search for further information and PILs on websites such as:
- The British National Formulary (BNF)
- Electronic medicines compendium (emc)
- The National Library of Medicine's DailyMed
- The Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
Different drug forms like tablets or liquids have specific patient information leaflets (PIL) for various doses. Refer to the PIL for your prescribed drug form and dose.
Search for PILs on websites like:
France
- ANSM (Agence nationale de sécurité du médicament et des produits de santé): ansm.sante.fr
Spain
- AEMPS (Agencia Española de Medicamentos y Productos Sanitarios): aemps.gob.es
Germany
- BfArM (Bundesinstitut für Arzneimittel und Medizinprodukte): bfarm.de
Italy
For questions about your medication:
- Consult your doctor, a healthcare professional, or a pharmacist
France
- Contact SOS Médecins: 3624
- For mental health support, contact SOS Suicide: 01 45 39 40 00
Belgium (French)
Switzerland (French)
- La Main Tendue: 143
- Website: 143.ch
Canada (French)
- Centre de prévention du suicide du Québec: 1 866 APPELLE (1 866 277-3553)
- Website: cpsquebec.ca
Spain
- Contact emergency number: 112
- For mental health support, contact Teléfono de la Esperanza: 717 003 717
Germany
- Contact emergency number: 112
- For mental health support, contact Telefonseelsorge: 0800 111 0 111 or 0800 111 0 222
Italy
- Contact emergency number: 112
- For mental health support, contact Telefono Amico: 199 284 284
Netherlands
- Contact emergency number: 112
- For mental health support, contact 113 Zelfmoordpreventie: 0800 0113
Portugal
- Contact emergency number: 112
- For mental health support, contact Sos Voz Amiga: 21 354 45 45, 91 280 26 69, or 96 352 46 60