Benzodiazepines for Social Anxiety Disorder
Examples
| alprazolam |
Xanax |
| chlordiazepoxide |
Librium |
| diazepam |
Valium |
| lorazepam |
Ativan |
| oxazepam |
|
How It Works
Benzodiazepines are minor tranquilizers
(sedatives) that prevent or reduce
anxiety, sleeplessness, muscle spasms, seizures, and
other problems by slowing down the
central nervous system.
Why It Is Used
Benzodiazepines are used to relieve
anxiety, nervousness, and tension linked with anxiety disorders.
How Well It Works
Benzodiazepines are effective at
reducing anxiety and nervous tension linked with
social anxiety disorder.
Side Effects
Possible side effects of benzodiazepines
include:
- Drowsiness or
dizziness.
- Lightheadedness.
- Fatigue.
- Blurred vision.
- Slurred speech.
- Memory
loss.
- Muscle weakness.
See Drug Reference for a full list of side effects. (Drug
Reference is not available in all systems.)
What To Think About
It is possible to become addicted to benzodiazepines. You
should talk to your doctor before taking benzodiazepines if you are planning to
become pregnant, have had a previous allergic reaction to them, or have
glaucoma.
Taking medicines for social anxiety during
pregnancy may increase the risk of birth defects. If you are pregnant or
thinking of becoming pregnant, talk to your doctor. You may need to take medicine if your social anxiety disorder is severe. Your doctor can help you weigh
the risks of treatment against the risk of harm to your
pregnancy.
Do not use alcohol while taking
benzodiazepines. Be careful driving your car or operating machinery, because these
medicines can cause drowsiness or dizziness.
Complete the new medication information form (PDF)(What is a PDF document?) to help you understand this medication.
Credits
|
By
|
Healthwise Staff |
|
Primary Medical Reviewer
|
E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine |
|
Specialist Medical Reviewer
|
Lisa S. Weinstock, MD - Psychiatry |
|
Last Revised
|
July 11, 2011 |
Last Revised:
July 11, 2011
