What is most commonly used to treat anxiety?

October 10, 2025 •

4 min read

An estimated 19.1% of U.S. adults have had an anxiety disorder in the past year, making it a widespread condition [1.8.2]. The question of what is most commonly used to treat anxiety points to several classes of effective medications, primarily antidepressants like SSRIs and SNRIs, which are considered first-line treatments [1.2.2, 1.2.3].

Quick Summary

The most common medications for long-term anxiety treatment are antidepressants, specifically SSRIs and SNRIs. Benzodiazepines are used for short-term, rapid relief, while other options like buspirone and beta-blockers serve specific roles.

Key Points

First-Line Treatments: SSRIs and SNRIs are the most commonly prescribed first-choice medications for the long-term management of anxiety disorders [1.2.3].
How They Work: SSRIs and SNRIs function by increasing levels of neurotransmitters like serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain, which helps regulate mood [1.3.1, 1.4.3].
Time to Effect: Antidepressants like SSRIs and SNRIs typically take several weeks (2 to 6) to become fully effective [1.2.4, 1.11.2].
Short-Term Relief: Benzodiazepines (e.g., Xanax) act quickly to relieve acute anxiety but are not recommended for long-term use due to high addiction potential [1.2.2, 1.5.1].
Specific Use Cases: Beta-blockers are used off-label for physical anxiety symptoms in performance situations, while buspirone is a non-addictive option for chronic anxiety [1.7.1, 1.6.2].
Holistic Treatment is Key: Medication is most effective when combined with psychotherapy, like CBT, and supportive lifestyle changes such as exercise and mindfulness [1.9.1, 1.13.2].
Professional Guidance is Essential: Choosing the right medication requires a thorough evaluation by a healthcare provider to match the treatment to individual needs and medical history [1.14.1].

Understanding Anxiety and the Role of Medication

Anxiety disorders are the most common mental health condition in the United States, affecting millions of adults annually [1.14.2]. While therapy, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), is a cornerstone of treatment, medication plays a crucial role in managing symptoms for many individuals [1.9.1, 1.14.3]. Pharmacotherapy aims to correct the balance of neurotransmitters—chemicals in the brain like serotonin and norepinephrine—that regulate mood and stress [1.4.3]. The choice of medication depends on the type of anxiety disorder, symptom severity, patient medical history, and potential side effects [1.14.1].

First-Line Treatments: The Go-To Medications

The primary and most-prescribed medications for the long-term management of anxiety are antidepressants, specifically Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) and Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs) [1.2.2, 1.2.3, 1.10.1].

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)

SSRIs are considered the first-line drug treatment for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) [1.10.3]. They work by increasing the levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that plays a vital role in mood regulation, in the brain [1.3.1]. By blocking the reabsorption (reuptake) of serotonin into neurons, more of the chemical is available to improve communication between brain cells [1.3.1]. These medications are not habit-forming and are generally taken for 6 to 12 months for anxiety treatment before a gradual reduction is considered [1.2.4].

It typically takes 2 to 6 weeks for SSRIs to become fully effective [1.2.4, 1.11.2].

Common SSRIs include:

Escitalopram (Lexapro) [1.3.1]
Sertraline (Zoloft) [1.3.1]
Paroxetine (Paxil) [1.3.1]
Fluoxetine (Prozac) [1.3.1]
Citalopram (Celexa) [1.3.1]

Common side effects can include nausea, headache, diarrhea, and sexual side effects, though they are often considered to have fewer adverse effects than older antidepressants [1.2.3, 1.3.2].

Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs)

Similar to SSRIs, SNRIs are also a first-line treatment for anxiety [1.2.4]. They work by blocking the reuptake of both serotonin and norepinephrine, another neurotransmitter involved in alertness and energy [1.4.3]. This dual-action mechanism can be effective for a range of mental health conditions, including anxiety and certain types of chronic pain [1.4.1, 1.4.4].

Like SSRIs, SNRIs can take about 4 to 6 weeks to show their full effect [1.11.2].

Common SNRIs include:

Venlafaxine (Effexor XR) [1.4.3]
Duloxetine (Cymbalta) [1.4.3]
Desvenlafaxine (Pristiq) [1.4.3]

Side effects can include nausea, dry mouth, dizziness, constipation, and potentially an increase in blood pressure due to the effect on norepinephrine [1.2.3, 1.4.1].

Short-Term and Alternative Medications

While SSRIs and SNRIs are the standard for long-term care, other medications are used in specific situations.

Benzodiazepines

Benzodiazepines are fast-acting sedatives that provide rapid relief from acute anxiety, often within 30 to 60 minutes [1.11.3]. They work by enhancing the effect of the neurotransmitter GABA, which produces a calming effect [1.5.1]. Due to their potential for dependence, addiction, and withdrawal symptoms, they are generally recommended only for short-term use (e.g., 2-4 weeks) or as-needed for situations like panic attacks or a fear of flying [1.2.2, 1.2.3, 1.5.1]. They are not considered a good choice for long-term management of chronic anxiety [1.14.3].

Common Benzodiazepines include:

Alprazolam (Xanax) [1.5.2]
Lorazepam (Ativan) [1.5.2]
Clonazepam (Klonopin) [1.5.2]
Diazepam (Valium) [1.5.2]

Buspirone (BuSpar)

Buspirone is a unique anti-anxiety medication that is not chemically related to other classes [1.6.4]. It works on serotonin and dopamine receptors but takes several weeks to become fully effective, similar to antidepressants [1.6.2, 1.6.3]. It has a low risk of dependence and is an option for long-term treatment of generalized anxiety, especially for those who cannot tolerate antidepressants or as an add-on therapy [1.2.2, 1.2.3]. It is not effective for immediate relief [1.6.3].

Beta-Blockers

Beta-blockers, such as propranolol and atenolol, are typically used for heart conditions but are prescribed off-label for the physical symptoms of performance or situational anxiety [1.7.1, 1.7.3]. They work by blocking the effects of adrenaline, which helps control symptoms like a racing heart, sweating, and trembling [1.7.1]. They are fast-acting and non-habit-forming, making them suitable for predictable events like public speaking, but they do not address the psychological aspects of anxiety [1.7.1, 1.7.2].

Comparison of Common Anxiety Medications


Medication Class	Primary Use Case	Onset of Action	Addiction Potential	Common Examples
SSRIs	Long-term, first-line	2-6 weeks [1.2.4]	Low [1.2.4]	Sertraline, Escitalopram [1.3.1]
SNRIs	Long-term, first-line	4-6 weeks [1.11.2]	Low [1.2.4]	Venlafaxine, Duloxetine [1.4.3]
Benzodiazepines	Short-term, acute relief	30-60 minutes [1.11.3]	High [1.2.3]	Alprazolam, Lorazepam [1.5.2]
Buspirone	Long-term	2-4 weeks [1.6.3]	Very Low [1.6.3]	Buspirone [1.6.4]
Beta-Blockers	Situational physical symptoms	Fast-acting [1.7.1]	Low / Non-addictive [1.7.1]	Propranolol, Atenolol [1.7.3]

The Importance of a Holistic Approach

Medication is often most effective when combined with other treatments. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a first-line, evidence-based psychotherapy that helps individuals identify and change the maladaptive thoughts and behaviors that maintain anxiety [1.9.1]. Combining CBT with medication can enhance overall treatment effectiveness [1.14.1].

Lifestyle changes and natural remedies can also play a supportive role. Regular exercise, prioritizing sleep, practicing mindfulness or meditation, and reducing caffeine intake have all been shown to help manage anxiety symptoms [1.13.2, 1.13.3].

Conclusion

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) and Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs) are what is most commonly used to treat anxiety disorders on a long-term basis [1.2.3, 1.2.4]. While other medications like benzodiazepines offer rapid, short-term relief, their use is limited by risks of dependence [1.2.2]. Beta-blockers and buspirone provide alternative options for specific types of anxiety. Choosing the right medication is a collaborative process between a patient and their healthcare provider, considering the specific symptoms, medical history, and treatment goals [1.14.1]. An effective treatment plan often integrates medication with psychotherapy and healthy lifestyle adjustments for the most comprehensive results.

For more information on anxiety disorders and treatment options, you can visit the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH).

Frequently Asked Questions

Antidepressants, specifically Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) and Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs), are the first-line and most common medications prescribed for the long-term treatment of anxiety [1.2.2, 1.2.3].

Long-term medications like SSRIs and SNRIs typically take 4 to 6 weeks to reach their full therapeutic effect [1.11.2, 1.11.3]. In contrast, short-acting medications like benzodiazepines can work within 30 to 60 minutes for acute symptoms [1.11.3].

SSRIs are antidepressants used for long-term anxiety management and take weeks to work, with a low risk of addiction [1.3.2, 1.2.4]. Benzodiazepines are fast-acting sedatives for short-term, immediate relief of severe anxiety and have a high potential for dependence and addiction [1.2.2, 1.2.3].

Yes, SSRIs, SNRIs, and buspirone are considered non-addictive options for the long-term treatment of anxiety [1.2.4, 1.6.3]. Beta-blockers, used for situational anxiety, are also not habit-forming [1.7.1].

No, you should not stop taking antidepressant medications like SSRIs or SNRIs suddenly. Doing so can cause withdrawal symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, anxiety, and flu-like symptoms [1.12.1, 1.12.2]. Always consult your doctor to create a plan to taper off the medication gradually [1.12.3].

Beta-blockers are used 'off-label' to manage the physical symptoms of anxiety, such as a racing heart, shaking, and sweating, particularly in performance-related or situational contexts like public speaking [1.7.1, 1.7.2]. They do not treat the psychological components of anxiety [1.7.1].

While not strictly necessary for everyone, combining medication with psychotherapy like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is often more effective than medication alone [1.9.1, 1.14.1]. Therapy helps address the root causes of anxiety, while medication manages the symptoms.

Common side effects for both SSRIs and SNRIs can include nausea, headaches, and dizziness [1.2.3]. SSRIs may also cause sexual side effects [1.3.2]. SNRIs can sometimes lead to dry mouth, constipation, and an increase in blood pressure [1.2.3, 1.4.1].