I thought I’d do a post on non-addictive meds for anxiety and their possible side effects. I am currently on Hydroxyzine, which is working very good for me at the present time. I say present time because I have trouble with my body getting used to the meds quickly and then I need an increase soon after I start taking it. That’s the reason I have to stay away from addictive meds, like benzos.

Non Addictive Meds For Anxiety And Their Side Effects

 Prozac 

Prozac is a medication that belongs to a class of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), which are commonly used to treat depression and anxiety disorders. It works by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain, which is a neurotransmitter that plays a role in regulating mood, anxiety, and other brain functions.

Prozac can be used to treat anxiety disorders such as generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, and social anxiety disorder. It can help reduce symptoms such as excessive worry, nervousness, and fear. The medication typically takes several weeks to take effect and should be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider. Here are some of the common side effects associated with Prozac:

• Nausea, vomiting, dry mouth, and diarrhea
• Dizziness, drowsiness, and tiredness
• Headaches
• Insomnia and other sleep disturbances
• Loss of appetite and weight loss or gain
• Sexual dysfunction, including decreased libido and difficulty achieving orgasm
• Sweating and hot flashes
• Agitation, nervousness, and restlessness
• Suicidal thoughts or behaviors, especially in children, adolescents, and young adults

 Sertraline 

Sertraline is an antidepressant medication that is commonly used to treat anxiety disorders, in addition to depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). It belongs to a class of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), which work by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that plays a key role in regulating mood, anxiety, and other brain functions.

Sertraline can help alleviate anxiety symptoms such as excessive worry, nervousness, and fear. It typically takes several weeks for the medication to take effect and should be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider. Here are some of the common side effects associated with Sertraline:

• Nausea, vomiting, dry mouth, and diarrhea
• Dizziness, drowsiness, and tiredness
• Headaches
• Insomnia and other sleep disturbances
• Loss of appetite and weight loss or gain
• Sexual dysfunction, including decreased libido and difficulty achieving orgasm
• Sweating and hot flashes
• Agitation, nervousness, and restlessness
• Suicidal thoughts or behaviors, especially in children, adolescents, and young adults

In rare cases, Sertraline can also cause more serious side effects, such as seizures, allergic reactions, and serotonin syndrome. Serotonin syndrome is a potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when there is an excessive amount of serotonin in the brain, which can cause symptoms such as agitation, confusion, high fever, rapid heartbeat, and muscle stiffness.

  Hydroxyzine 

This is the med that I am currently taking, which is working very well. Do you know what it is originally intended to be used for? When you are put out for surgery, they give you a mixture of meds and this is one of them. You have to be very cautious about how much you take because it really does make you feel like you could go to sleep at any time. Some possible side effects of hydroxyzine include:

• Drowsiness and fatigue
• Dry mouth
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Blurred vision
• Constipation
• Nausea and vomiting
• Headache
• Confusion or disorientation
• Changes in heart rate or blood pressure
• Tremors or muscle stiffness
• Rash or hives

In rare cases, more serious side effects can occur, such as seizures, difficulty breathing, and anaphylaxis (a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction). It is important to speak with a healthcare professional if you experience any of these side effects or any other unusual symptoms while taking Hydroxyzine.

 Buspirone

I tried this one for two days and couldn’t stand one of the side effects from it. I literally felt like I wanted to “jump out of my skin”. I couldn’t tell if I was coming or going. It’s supposed to help with anxiety, but for me, it made it worse. I called my psychiatrist and told her I couldn’t take it anymore. Previously, I remember trying to take it from a different doctor and I had the same results. Some possible side effects of buspirone include:

• Dizziness and lightheadedness
• Nausea or upset stomach
• Headache
• Nervousness or agitation
• Restlessness or insomnia
• Blurred vision
• Sweating
• Dry mouth
• Chest pain
• Irregular heartbeat
• Muscle weakness or coordination difficulties
• Rarely, tardive dyskinesia: a neurological disorder characterized by involuntary movements of the face, tongue, and limbs.

 Gabapentin

Gabapentin is a medication that is primarily used to treat certain types of seizures and nerve pain, but it can also be used to treat anxiety disorders. It is thought to work by increasing the activity of a neurotransmitter called GABA, which helps to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.

Gabapentin is not a first-line treatment for anxiety disorders, and it is typically used when other medications have not been effective or have caused unwanted side effects. It may be particularly useful for people with anxiety disorders who also have nerve pain or sleep disturbances. Furthermore, I was given a choice of trying Gabapentin or Buspirone and I chose Buspirone. Obviously, for me, I think I made the wrong choice (story of my life). Some common side effects that have been reported with gabapentin include:

• Dizziness or drowsiness
• Fatigue or weakness
• Headache
• Nausea or vomiting
• Dry mouth
• Blurred vision
• Swelling of the limbs
• Memory loss or confusion
• Weight gain
• Muscle coordination problems

In some cases, serious side effects may occur with gabapentin, including allergic reactions, suicidal thoughts, and breathing difficulties. Additionally, gabapentin can interact with other medications and supplements, including over-the-counter medications.

 Propranolol

Propranolol is a medication that is commonly used to treat various conditions related to the heart, blood vessels, and nervous system. It belongs to a class of drugs called beta-blockers.

In addition to its traditional medical uses, propranolol can also be used to treat certain anxiety disorders, such as social anxiety disorder (SAD) and performance anxiety. It is thought to work by blocking the effects of adrenaline and reducing the physical symptoms of anxiety, such as a rapid heartbeat, shaking, and sweating. Some possible side effects of propranolol include:

• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Fatigue or weakness
• Nausea or vomiting
• Upset stomach or diarrhea
• Constipation
• Cold hands or feet
• Hair loss
• Rash or itching
• Difficulty sleeping or nightmares
• Depression or mood changes
• Memory loss or confusion
• Sexual dysfunction
• Shortness of breath or wheezing (uncommon)
• Slowed heart rate (uncommon)

 Vortioxetine

Vortioxetine is a prescription medication that is primarily used to treat major depressive disorder. It belongs to a class of drugs called serotonin modulators and agonists, and it is thought to work by increasing levels of the neurotransmitter serotonin in the brain.

While vortioxetine is not specifically approved for the treatment of anxiety disorders, some studies suggest that it may be effective in reducing anxiety symptoms in people with major depressive disorder who also have anxiety symptoms. Some possible side effects of vortioxetine include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Dizziness
• Sleep disturbances, such as insomnia or vivid dreams
• Constipation
• Dry mouth
• Sexual dysfunction including changes in sexual interest, difficulty in arousal and orgasm
• Blurred vision
• Abnormal dreams
• Headache
• Diarrhea
• Fatigue
• Increased sweating
• Agitation or restlessness
• Weight gain

Additionally, vortioxetine may interact with other medications, including certain antidepressants, migraine medications, and antibiotics, which can increase the risk of side effects.

Over The Counter (OTC) Calming Medication

There are some over-the-counter remedies that are marketed as being helpful for reducing anxiety symptoms, but it’s important to note that they are not a substitute for traditional medication and therapy prescribed by a healthcare provider. Some examples of over-the-counter medications and supplements that may help with anxiety include:

Melatonin: Melatonin is a hormone that is naturally produced by the body and is important for regulating sleep. Some studies suggest that taking melatonin supplements may help reduce symptoms of anxiety.

Valerian root: Valerian root is an herbal supplement that has traditionally been used to treat anxiety, insomnia, and nervousness. It is thought to work by increasing the levels of GABA in the brain, which can help to reduce anxiety.

Passionflower: Passionflower is another herbal supplement that has traditionally been used to treat anxiety and insomnia. It is thought to work by increasing the levels of GABA in the brain.

Conclusion

I know, that is a lot of info about different meds for anxiety, however, I thought it was important to include the side effects along with them. Also, not everyone can take the medications prescribed from doctors, so that’s why I included some over the counter meds. It is still important to talk to a healthcare provider about any of the meds you are possibly going to take or are taking (including otc meds). That’s gonna wrap it up for me, until next time…

Articles

-Everything You Need To Know About Anxiety Medications

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323666

-Anti-Anxiety Medications (Benzodiazepines)

https://www.camh.ca/en/health-info/mental-illness-and-addiction-index/anti-anxiety-medications-benzodiazepines

-Medications For Anxiety

https://www.drugs.com/condition/anxiety.html

Have a Good One,

Cindee Murphy, One Voice – Unstoppable

“You’re not alone!”