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Is Anxiety Medicine Addictive?

Writing by Posted On: April 28, 2023
Francisco Church
Chief Editor of - Recovery Ranger

Francisco Church is a rehabilitation specialist and the chief editor of Recovery Ranger. He creates this site to offer guidance and support to individuals seeking...Read more

Anxiety is a common mental health issue that many individuals face, and when left untreated, it can lead to serious problems. Unfortunately, one of the most popular ways to treat anxiety is through the use of prescription medications. While these drugs can be effective in treating anxiety, there is a concern that some of them may be addictive. In this article, we will examine the potential for addiction when taking anxiety medications and discuss the risks and benefits associated with taking them.

No, anxiety medicines are not addictive. However, if taken for a long period of time, the body can become used to the medicines and the dosage may need to be increased. It is important to follow the instructions of your doctor and take the medication as prescribed. If you feel that you are becoming dependent on the medication, talk to your doctor about other treatments that may be more beneficial for your anxiety.

Is Anxiety Medicine Addictive?

What is Anxiety Medicine?

Anxiety medicine is a type of medication used to treat anxiety disorders, such as generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, and social anxiety disorder (SAD). These medications act on neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and GABA, to reduce symptoms of anxiety. Commonly prescribed medications for anxiety include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and benzodiazepines.

SSRIs

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are a type of antidepressant medication used to treat anxiety and depression. SSRIs work by increasing levels of serotonin in the brain, a neurotransmitter associated with mood regulation. Commonly prescribed SSRIs include citalopram (Celexa), fluoxetine (Prozac), and sertraline (Zoloft).

SSRIs are not considered addictive, but they can cause withdrawal symptoms if stopped suddenly. People who have been taking SSRIs for an extended period of time should talk to their doctor before stopping the medication.

Benzodiazepines

Benzodiazepines are a type of anti-anxiety medication and sedative. They work by increasing levels of GABA, a neurotransmitter that has a calming effect. Commonly prescribed benzodiazepines include alprazolam (Xanax), clonazepam (Klonopin), and diazepam (Valium).

Benzodiazepines are considered to be potentially addictive and can cause withdrawal symptoms if stopped suddenly. People who have been taking benzodiazepines for an extended period of time should talk to their doctor before stopping the medication.

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Are Anxiety Medications Addictive?

The risk of addiction to anxiety medications depends on the type of medication. While SSRIs are not considered to be addictive, benzodiazepines can be addictive if used for an extended period of time.

Risk Of Addiction With Benzodiazepines

Benzodiazepines are a class of drugs that can be addictive if used for an extended period of time. When used for a short period of time, the risk of addiction is low. However, the risk of addiction increases with longer-term use. People who have a history of substance abuse are also at a greater risk for developing an addiction to benzodiazepines.

Preventing Addiction

People who are taking anxiety medications should talk to their doctor about the risks of addiction and how to prevent it. It is important to take the medication as prescribed and not to increase the dosage without talking to a doctor. It is also important to never mix benzodiazepines with alcohol or other drugs.

Signs Of Addiction

Signs of addiction to anxiety medications include taking larger doses than prescribed, taking the medication more often than prescribed, feeling withdrawal symptoms when the medication is stopped, and having difficulty cutting back or stopping the medication.

Getting Help

If you or someone you know is showing signs of addiction to anxiety medications, it is important to seek help immediately. Addiction to anxiety medications can have serious physical, mental, and emotional consequences. Treatment for addiction to anxiety medications may include detoxification, counseling, and support groups.

What To Do If You Are Taking Anxiety Medications?

If you are taking anxiety medications, it is important to talk to your doctor about the risks of addiction and how to prevent it. It is also important to be aware of the signs of addiction and to seek help if you or someone you know is showing signs of addiction. With proper treatment and support, it is possible to overcome addiction to anxiety medications.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is Anxiety Medicine?

Anxiety medicine is a type of medication prescribed by a doctor to help treat anxiety disorders. Anxiety medications work by altering the balance of certain chemicals in the brain, such as serotonin and norepinephrine, which are involved in regulating mood and behavior. Common types of anxiety medications include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), benzodiazepines, and tricyclic antidepressants.

2. How Does Anxiety Medicine Work?

Anxiety medicine works by affecting the balance of certain chemicals in the brain. Different types of anxiety medications can affect different brain chemicals. For instance, SSRIs work by increasing the amount of serotonin, a neurotransmitter involved in regulating mood and behavior, in the brain. SNRIs work by increasing levels of both serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. Benzodiazepines work by increasing the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that has a calming effect on the brain. Tricyclic antidepressants work by blocking the reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine.

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3. Is Anxiety Medicine Addictive?

No, anxiety medications are not considered to be addictive. However, some types of anxiety medications, such as benzodiazepines, can cause physical dependence when they are taken for longer than a few weeks. Physical dependence means that the body needs the medication in order to function normally. If a person stops taking the medication suddenly, they may experience withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, insomnia, and irritability.

4. What are the Side Effects of Anxiety Medicine?

The side effects of anxiety medications vary depending on the type of medication. Common side effects of SSRIs and SNRIs include nausea, dizziness, insomnia, and fatigue. Common side effects of benzodiazepines include drowsiness, confusion, and coordination problems. Common side effects of tricyclic antidepressants include dry mouth, constipation, and blurred vision.

5. Who Should Not Take Anxiety Medicine?

Anxiety medications should not be taken by people who have had a history of substance abuse, have a history of mental health problems, or are pregnant or breastfeeding. It is also important to talk to a doctor before taking any type of anxiety medication to make sure it is safe to do so.

6. How Long Does An Anxiety Medicine Take to Work?

The amount of time it takes for anxiety medications to start working can vary depending on the type of medication and the individual taking it. SSRIs and SNRIs typically take 4 to 8 weeks to start working. Benzodiazepines can start working within a few hours. Tricyclic antidepressants can take up to 4 weeks to start working. It is important to work closely with a doctor to find the medication and dose that is right for you.

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In conclusion, while anxiety medicine is not always addictive, it can become so in certain situations. It is important to be aware of this potential, to be informed of the risks and to talk to a doctor before taking any form of anxiety medicine. When used correctly and under the care of a qualified physician, anxiety medicine can be an effective way of managing anxiety.

Francisco ChurchChief Editor of - Recovery Ranger

Francisco Church is a rehabilitation specialist and the chief editor of Recovery Ranger. He creates this site to offer guidance and support to individuals seeking to overcome addiction and achieve lasting sobriety. With extensive experience in the field of addiction treatment, Francisco is dedicated to helping individuals access the resources they need for successful recovery.

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