Which medication is commonly used to treat anxiety?

Benzodiazepines are commonly used to treat anxiety due to their rapid anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) effects. These medications work by enhancing the effect of the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which produces a calming effect on the brain and nervous system. This increase in GABA leads to sedation, muscle relaxation, and decreased anxiety, making benzodiazepines particularly effective for short-term management of anxiety disorders or acute anxiety episodes.

While antidepressants are also used for anxiety over the long term, especially selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), their onset of action is slower compared to benzodiazepines. Beta-blockers can help manage the physical symptoms of anxiety, such as rapid heartbeat or tremors, but they do not address the psychological symptoms directly. Antipsychotics may be used in certain cases of severe anxiety, particularly when there are concurrent psychotic symptoms, but they are not first-line treatments for anxiety. Hence, benzodiazepines are the most commonly used class of medication for immediate relief of anxiety symptoms.