anxiolytic

Anxiolytic refers to a substance or medication that reduces anxiety. In medical use, the term encompasses several drug classes with clinically meaningful anxiety-reducing effects, prescribed for disorders such as generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, and related conditions that impair functioning.

Benzodiazepines (for example diazepam, lorazepam, clonazepam) are fast-acting anxiolytics that enhance the activity of the neurotransmitter GABA at GABA-A receptors, producing relaxation in addition to anxiety relief. They are effective but carry risks of dependence, tolerance, cognitive impairment, and potentially severe withdrawal, so they are generally recommended for short-term or situational use.

Non-benzodiazepine options include buspirone, which acts on serotonin receptors and has a slower onset but a lower risk of sedation and dependency. Antidepressants such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) are commonly used for chronic anxiety disorders; they require several weeks to become effective. Other agents sometimes used off-label or in specific contexts include gabapentinoids (gabapentin, pregabalin), antihistamines such as hydroxyzine for short-term anxiety relief, and beta-blockers like propranolol to mitigate performance-related symptoms.

Safety and monitoring concerns vary by agent. Benzodiazepines carry dependence and withdrawal risks and may interact with other central nervous system depressants. Antidepressants can cause initial anxiety worsening, sleep disturbances, or other side effects during titration. All anxiolytics require careful consideration of comorbid conditions, age, and potential interactions, with long-term treatment generally guided by evidence-based protocols.

See also: anxiety disorders, pharmacotherapy, GABA, SSRIs, SNRIs.