|
|
Definition:
Anxiolytics are drugs used to relieve
anxiety or prevent anxiety attacks. The
most common anti-anxiety medications
include:
• Ativan / lorazepam
• Dalmane / flurazepam
• Halcion / triazolam
• Klonopin / Rivotril / clonazepam
• Librium / chlordiazepoxide
• Serax / oxazepam
• Valium / diazepam
• Xanax / alprazolam
An anxiolytic (also antipanic or
antianxiety agent is a drug used for the
treatment of symptoms of anxiety.
Anxiolytics have been shown to be useful
in the treatment of anxiety disorders.
Though not anxiolytics, beta-receptor
blockers such as propranolol and
oxprenolol can be used to combat the
somatic symptoms of anxiety.
Types of anxiolytics
Benzodiazepines are prescribed for
short-term relief of severe and
disabling anxiety. Benzodiazepines may
also be indicated to cover the latent
periods associated with the medications
prescribed to treat an underlying
anxiety disorder. They are used to treat
a wide variety of conditions and
symptoms and are usually a first choice
when short-term CNS sedation is needed.
Longer-term uses include treatment for
severe anxiety. There is a risk of a
benzodiazepine withdrawal and rebound
syndrome after continuous usage for
longer than two weeks. There is also the
added problem of the accumulation of
drug metabolites and adverse effects.[3]
Benzodiazepines include:
* Alprazolam
* Chlordiazepoxide
* Clonazepam
* Diazepam
* Lorazepam
Benzodiazepines exert their anxiolytic
properties at moderate dosage. At higher
dosage hypnotic properties occur. |
|
