There are several medications that can be used to treat stress and anxiety, and the best one for an individual depends on their specific symptoms and medical history. It is important to work with a doctor to determine the best course of treatment. Here are some of the most commonly prescribed types of medication to treat anxiety:

• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs): These are often the first-line treatment for anxiety. They work by increasing levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that affects mood, sexual desire, appetite, sleep, and memory. Common SSRI brands are Celexa, Lexapro, Luvox, Paxil, and Zoloft. Common SNRI brands are Pristiq, Cymbalta, and Effexor XR. They are effective for a lot of people and have a solid safety profile, but they can take four to six weeks to build up in your system and could cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.

• Benzodiazepines: These are sedatives that can help relax muscles and calm the mind. They work by increasing the effects of certain neurotransmitters, which are chemicals that relay messages between brain cells. They help treat many kinds of anxiety disorders, including panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and social anxiety disorder. Examples of these drugs include alprazolam (Xanax), chlordiazepoxide (Librium), clonazepam (Klonopin), diazepam (Valium), and lorazepam (Ativan). They can be effective for short-term use, but they are physically addictive and not recommended for long-term treatment.

• Antidepressants: These are widely used to treat and prevent a variety of anxiety disorders. Examples of SSRIs that are commonly used to treat chronic anxiety include citalopram (Celexa), escitalopram (Lexapro), fluoxetine (Prozac), paroxetine (Paxil), and sertraline (Zoloft). They need to be taken daily whether or not you have anxiety on that particular day, as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Antidepressants such as SSRIs or SNRIs or tricyclics can provide temporary relief, but they also come with side effects and safety concerns.

• Antihistamines and beta-blockers: These can help mild cases of anxiety as well as performance anxiety, a type of social anxiety disorder. Examples of antihistamines include hydroxyzine, and examples of beta-blockers include propranolol.

It is important to note that medication is often used in conjunction with psychotherapy and exercise to treat anxiety. Additionally, there are other treatments that can help manage anxiety, such as meditation, deep breathing, and relaxation techniques.