Which class of medications is commonly used to treat anxiety disorders?

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) are commonly used to treat anxiety disorders due to their ability to enhance serotonergic activity in the brain. These medications increase the levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that is often low in individuals experiencing anxiety.

The effectiveness of SSRIs in managing anxiety can be attributed to their capacity to alleviate symptoms associated with various anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, and social anxiety disorder. Their favorable risk-to-benefit ratio, including manageable side effect profiles compared to other classes of medications, makes them a first-line treatment option.

In contrast, while antipsychotics may be used as adjunctive therapy in specific cases, they are not the primary treatment for anxiety disorders. Stimulants are typically prescribed for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and are not indicated for anxiety. Antihistamines can have sedative effects but are not first-line treatments for anxiety disorders. Thus, SSRIs stand out as the most appropriate choice for the treatment of anxiety.