• Summary 
• Introduction:
  Common medications for anxiety disorders 
• Guidelines for medication use
• Medication profiles 

Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs)

Venlafaxine-XR (Effexor-XR)

Possible Benefits. Helpful for panic, obsessive-compulsive disorder, social anxiety disorder, generalized anxiety and depression.

Possible Disadvantages. Takes several weeks for primary effects to begin. Nausea and dizziness can be common side effects. Use during pregnancy or breast-feeding only after approval from your physician. Can be expensive.

Possible Side Effects. Headache, drowsiness, dizziness, nervousness, trouble sleeping, dry mouth, nausea, vomiting, blurred vision, altered taste, sweating, stomach upset, constipation, loss of appetite, anxiety, or yawning may occur. Increased blood pressure at high doses.

Dosages Recommended by Investigators. Start at 37.5 mg.  Increase to between 75 and 225 mg.

Duloxetine (Cymbalta)

 Possible Benefits. Helpful for depression, generalized anxiety, panic, OCD.

Possible Disadvantages. Therapeutic response can take four to six weeks. Avoid alcohol.  Consult your physician regarding use during pregnancy or breast-feeding.

Possible Side Effects. anorexia, constipation, diarrhea, dizziness, drowsiness, fatigue, sweating, insomnia, nausea, dry mouth, reduced libido.

Dosages Recommended by Investigators. 30-60 mg. per day.