Anxiolytics

Products

Anxiolytics are commercially available in the form of tablets, capsules, and injectable preparations, among others.

Structure and properties

Anxiolytics are a structurally heterogeneous group. However, the representatives can be divided into different classes. These include, for example, the benzodiazepines or the tricyclic antidepressants.

Effects

Anxiolytics have antianxiety (anxiolytic) properties. They usually have additional effects, that is, they are additionally, for example, sedative, sedative (depressant), sleep-inducing, and muscle relaxant. Their effects are based on interaction with neurotransmitter systems in the central nervous system.

Indications

For the treatment of anxiety and panic disorders.

Abuse

Some anxiolytics can be abused as depressant narcotics (e.g., benzodiazepines) because of their psychotropic properties. They can lead to dependence and addiction. Conversely, various intoxicants, such as ethanol, have antianxiety properties.

Active ingredients

The following list shows a selection of agents with anxiety-relieving properties. Not all representatives are approved for this indication: Benzodiazepines:

  • Alprazolam
  • Bromazepam
  • Chlordiazepoxide
  • Clobazam
  • Clorazepate
  • Diazepam
  • Ketazolam
  • Lorazepam
  • Oxazepam
  • Prazepam

Antiepileptic drugs:

  • Gabapentin
  • Lamotrigine
  • Pregabalin

Antidepressants:

  • Amitriptyline
  • Citalopram
  • Maprotiline
  • Opipramol
  • Trimipramine
  • Venlafaxine

Beta blockers:

  • Propranolol

Antihistamines:

  • Hydroxyzine

Cannabinoids:

  • Cannabidiol

Neuroleptics:

  • Flupentixol
  • Olanzapine
  • Quetiapine

Z-Drugs:

Carbamate:

  • Meprobamate (out of trade)

Azapirone:

  • Buspirone (out of trade)

Barbiturates:

  • Rarely used today

Herbal anxiolytics

The following medicinal plants have sedative or anti-anxiety properties:

  • Valerian
  • Cannabis
  • Hops
  • St. John’s wort
  • California poppy
  • Kava
  • Lavender, lavender oil capsules
  • Melissa
  • Passionflower

Adaptogens:

  • Ginseng
  • Rose root
  • Taiga root

Contraindications

Full precautions can be found in the drug label.

Interactions

Central depressant medications and alcohol may increase adverse effects.

Adverse effects

Adverse effects depend on the agent administered. Typical adverse effects of anxiolytics include:

  • Fatigue, drowsiness, central depression, decrease in responsiveness.
  • Central nervous disorders
  • Dependence, addiction (does not apply to all agents).
  • Digestive complaints