Anxiety is a disorder, but it can also be a symptom of another disorder, like depression, that could be treated with a nonaddictive medicine, says Dr. Hellerstein. And conditions such as panic disorders may be masked while taking certain antianxiety meds, particularly benzodiazepines. Many who are put on these medications might benefit from relaxation training, yoga, CBT, or an antidepressant instead, Dr. Hellerstein adds.

Benzodiazepines

In addition to anxiety, benzos can also be helpful for insomnia and depression. They bind to the same brain receptors as alcohol, and they can be addictive if used regularly. Check whether your anxiety could be a symptom of another disorder.

Clonazepam (Klonopin)

It takes longer to kick in than other medications, but it also lasts longer and is probably least addictive.

Treats: Panic and seizure disorders

Lorazepam (Ativan)

It starts working fast and wears off fast.

Treats: Anxiety, insomnia

Alprazolam (Xanax)

Also has antidepressant effects. Its highly addictive and can be difficult to withdraw from. I tend to prescribe it quite rarely, says Dr. Hellerstein.

Treats: Panic disorder and anxiety caused by depression

Unlike benzos, antidepressants arent physiologically addictive, but they can be difficult to come off. While theres no clear metric for deciding which medication within each class might be best, doctors do use various criteria. If youve had trouble tolerating a number of medicines in the past or havent seen benefits, ask about potential genetic tests, Dr. Hellerstein suggests. They can help match you to appropriate medications based on features like your metabolism.

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)

The go-to choice for treating depression. Thats because theyre safe and inexpensive and have relatively few side effects. They can also help other conditions, including anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and panic disorder.

Citalopram (Celexa)

Treats: Depression

Escitalopram (Lexapro)

Treats: Depression and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)

Fluoxetine (Prozac)

Treats: Depression, OCD, some eating disorders, and panic disorder

Paroxetine (Paxil)

Treats: Depression, OCD, panic disorder, GAD, and PTSD

Sertraline (Zoloft)

Treats: Depression, OCD, PTSD, and panic and social-anxiety disorders

Vilazodone (Viibryd) and vortioxetine (Trintellix)

Newer meds that also have anti-anxiety and pro-cognitive effects. May be helpful for those who dont respond to traditional SSRIs.

Serotonin and Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs)

serotonin and so also help with energy, concentration, focus, and motivation issues. Theyre best used with someone who is depressed but also has low energy, or someone who cant focus or concentrate.

Desvenlafaxine (Pristiq)

Treats: Depression

Duloxetine (Cymbalta)

Treats: Depression, GAD, muscle pain

Levomilnacipran (Fetzima)

Treats: Depression

Venlafaxine (Effexor)

Treats: Depression, GAD, and panic disorder

Norepinephrine-Dopamine Reuptake Inhibitors (NDRIs)

They work on norepinephrine and dopamine as opposed to serotonin, so theyre also helpful with energy and concentration. NDRIs have fewer side effects compared with SSRI and SNRI medications.

Bupropion (Wellbutrin)

Treats: Depression and depression associated with seasonal affective disorder

Stimulants treat symptoms of attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). They can be addictive, but most stimulant addictions stem from failing to follow prescription instructions. Its a good idea to talk with your doctor and schedule a follow-up soon after beginning the medication, as overuse can cause paranoia, cautions Dr. Hellerstein.

The Potentially Addictive

Amphetamine/dextro-amphetamine (Adderall)

Treats: ADHD and narcolepsy

Lisdexamfetamine dimesylate (Vyvanse)

Treats: ADHD and binge-eating disorder

Methylphenidate (Ritalin)

Treats: ADHD and narcolepsy

The Nonaddictive Alternatives

Guanfacine (Intuniv)

Treats: ADHD and high blood pressure

Atomoxetine (Strattera)

Treats: ADHD