Anxiety medications encompass several drug classes used in the management of generalised anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety, panic disorder, and other anxiety spectrum conditions. This section focuses on non-benzodiazepine prescription agents — specifically the azapirone class — that provide anxiolytic benefit without the abuse potential, dependence risk, or sedation associated with benzodiazepines (such as diazepam or alprazolam). SSRIs and SNRIs are also first-line for most anxiety disorders; see the Antidepressants section for those agents.
Non-Benzodiazepine Anxiolytics
Azapirones — Buspirone (BuSpar) is the prototype. It acts as a partial agonist at the 5-HT1A serotonin receptor and as a dopamine D2 receptor antagonist, reducing anxiety without causing sedation or physical dependence. It requires 2–4 weeks of continuous use before therapeutic effects are apparent and is most suitable for chronic GAD rather than acute anxiety or panic attacks.
Anxiety Medication at Lucas Clinic
Disclaimer: For informational purposes only. All anxiety medications require a prescription. Consult a licensed healthcare professional. See our full disclaimer.