Other medication

Antipsychotics: (neuroleptics)

These are sometimes prescribed in addition to antidepressant or antianxiety medications.  They are sometimes used as an alternative to benzodiazepines which have an associated risk of possible dependence.  Antipsychotics may also be useful in combating anxiety in patients who do not respond to conventional treatment choices. 

Possible side effects from antipsychotic drugs include weight gain and an increased risk of developing diabetes.  Longer-term use can result in the patient experiencing involuntary muscle contractions or abnormal movements.

Beta-blockers are a class of drugs used to treat heart problems but they are sometimes prescribed for anxiety symptoms because they work by blocking the action of adrenalin at the heart. 

They lower the heart rate, relax pressure in blood vessel walls, and decrease the force of heart contractions, all of which make us feel calmer.  Two beta-blockers commonly prescribed for anxiety disorders, are propranolol and atenolol.  Possible side effects associated with beta-blockers include:

• light-headedness
• fatigue
• cold hands and feet
• dry mouth, eyes and skin