Anti-anxiety medication may be the answer for most of the over 40 million American citizens who suffer with anxiety disorders. The Anxiety Disorder Association of America (ADAA) estimates that 18% of the U.S. population over 18 years of age are afflicted.

With the various manifestations of anxiety disorders out there, as one would expect there are many different types of anti-anxiety medications available. A person seeking to ease their anxiety should do research into what specific symptoms they are having. With a little effort one can narrow down the possible conditions they may be afflicted with.

Consulting a physician to explore the possibilities is the next move toward treatment. The doctor may reccomend different treatment options that are available. How each option works, dosages, and potential side-effects should be discussed.

Conducting some background research into which anti-anxiety medications would be beneficial is also recommended. Knowing the differences between the options as well as their long-term effects can often make the burden of choosing easier. An individual should not hesitate to discuss any concerns with their doctor.

One option among anti-anxiety medications are the anxiolytics. Compounds in the anxiolytic class are divided into two groups, benzodiazepines and non-benzodiazepines. Benzodiazepines are generally prescribed as a short-term solution for severe anxiety.

Valium (Diazepam), Klonopin (Clonazepam), and Xanax (Alprazolam) are benzodiazepines. These anti-anxiety medications are used to treat social anxiety disorder (SAD), generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), and also panic disorder (PD).

These medications are often available under their generic names. They function by enhancing the Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) present in the patients brain. GABA is an amino acid present in the central nervous system. It acts as a inhibitory nuerotransmitter and when it is increased it helps to create a sense of well-being and relaxation.

Non-benzodiazepines such as Buspar (Buspirone) are often used to treat GAD. They work by amplifying the action of serotonin in the brain. It is generally accepted that serotonin is linked to the suppression of anxiety.

It is important to not skip doses, whichever anti-anxiety medication is prescribed . Skipping doses or deciding to go off the medication altogether can be dangerous. The doctor should be notified if the drug is not producing the desired effect, at which time he or she may decide to step the patient down off the drug gradually.

There are many herbal treatments avialable for those that are nervous about starting a program of anti-anxiety medication. St. John’s wort, Valerian root, and Kava Kava are believed to have anxiolytic properties. A physicians consultation is recommended before beginning any schedule of medications.

Another approach is Panic Away which is a natural Technique to stop Panic Attacks and General Anxiety fast!