Anxiety is one of the most common mental health conditions in the U.S., affecting nearly 20% of adults. Globally, more than 300 million people live with some form of anxiety disorder. That’s a lot of racing thoughts, sweaty palms and “what if” spirals happening all over the world.

While therapy, lifestyle changes and holistic practices play a major role in treatment, many people also benefit from anxiety disorder medication. And with so many names, acronyms and types to keep track of (e.g., SSRIs, SNRIs, benzodiazepines, off-label options), it can feel like trying to read a restaurant menu in a foreign language.

This guide breaks down common medications for anxiety disorder, the science behind them and some of the most prescribed anxiety disorder medications in the U.S. right now. Whether you’re exploring options for yourself or supporting someone you love, think of this as a helpful road map, with a mix of serious facts and a few lighthearted truths.

The big picture: Why medication matters

When you think of a healthcare provider treating anxiety, you might think of a therapist’s office. And while therapy is fantastic, medication often works alongside it to create the best possible outcome. Think of it like this: If you have a broken leg, a cast (medication) helps it heal, but physical therapy (psychotherapy) helps you learn to walk on it again. Both are essential for a full recovery.

The world of pharmaceuticals and medical technology is constantly evolving. Companies are always working on new ways to help people manage their mental health. This means you have more options now than ever before. When we talk about anxiety disorder medication, we’re not just talking about one or two drugs. We’re talking about a whole toolbox of different medicines that work in different ways.

In fact, a recent look at prescription data from 2024 showed that the top 20 antianxiety medications dispensed in the U.S. include a wide variety of drug types, many of which were originally developed for other conditions. This “off-label” use is common in medicine and shows just how flexible and smart healthcare providers are when it comes to finding the right treatment for a person.

A closer look at anxiety medications

Let’s dive into what the data tells us about common medications for anxiety disorder. It’s interesting to see which drugs are most frequently prescribed, and it gives us a great starting point to understand the science behind them.

• Gabapentin 

Gabapentin is most commonly known for treating seizures and nerve pain. It was also the No. 1 most-prescribed antianxiety drug in 2024, making up nearly 22% of prescriptions. It works by affecting a chemical in the brain called GABA, which helps calm down overactive nerves.

• Trazodone hydrochloride

This is another off-label medication. Trazodone is a sedative and antidepressant that’s often prescribed for sleep issues, but its calming effects also make it a valuable tool for managing anxiety that’s causing insomnia.

• Alprazolam and clonazepam

These two may be names you’ve heard before. They belong to a class of drugs called benzodiazepines. These medications are powerful and fast acting, providing quick relief for acute anxiety or panic attacks. They work by boosting the effects of GABA in the brain. However, because they can be habit forming, they are usually prescribed for short-term use.

It’s fascinating to see how many of these top medications are used “off-label.” This means a doctor is prescribing a drug for a use that is different from its original FDA-approved purpose because clinical evidence shows it can be effective for a different condition. It’s a testament to how creative and person-centered medicine can be.

Breaking down the types of anxiety medications

To understand why there are so many options, it helps to look at the science behind them. Here are the main categories of common medications for anxiety disorder:

1. SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors)

Examples: sertraline (Zoloft), escitalopram (Lexapro)

• How they work — SSRIs increase serotonin, a “feel-good” brain chemical, by preventing its reabsorption.
• Why they’re used — First-line treatment for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety and panic disorder

An SSRI can take weeks to take effect, and while you know it will be beneficial, the waiting period can feel especially difficult.

2. SNRIs (serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors)

Examples: venlafaxine (Effexor), duloxetine (Cymbalta)

• How they work: SNRIs boost both serotonin and norepinephrine, which help regulate mood and energy.
• Why they’re used: Helpful if anxiety is paired with fatigue or low motivation

3. Benzodiazepines

Examples: alprazolam (Xanax), lorazepam (Ativan), clonazepam (Klonopin)

• How they work: Benzodiazepines enhance the activity of GABA, a neurotransmitter that helps reduce brain activity and promote calm.
• Why they’re used: Quick relief for acute anxiety or panic attacks
• Important note: Best for short-term or as-needed use; otherwise they can cause dependence

4. Anticonvulsants 

Examples: gabapentin (Neurontin), topiramate (Topamax)

• How they work: Originally made for seizures, these meds also calm overactive nerve signaling.
• Why they’re used: Off-label for anxiety, especially when first-line treatments don’t work

5. Other options

• Buspirone — Specifically approved for generalized anxiety disorder, though used less often these days
• Antihistamines (like hydroxyzine) — Can calm the body but sometimes causes drowsiness
• Antipsychotics or mood stabilizers — Used in more complex cases with overlapping conditions

New and emerging treatments for anxiety

Beyond the best anxiety disorder medications we know today, researchers are exploring innovative options:

• Ketamine — Already FDA approved for depression and is being studied for anxiety.
• Psychedelics (like psilocybin) — Early research shows promise, but it’s still experimental.
• Cannabinoids — Ongoing trials are exploring whether certain compounds in cannabis help with anxiety.
• Neurosteroids and glutamate modulators — Cutting-edge work that may shape the next generation of treatments

This doesn’t mean you’ll find “psychedelic therapy” at your local clinic tomorrow, but it does show the future is expanding.

Beyond the pill: Integrated care is key

It’s easy to get focused on the medication, but it’s so important to remember that it’s just one part of the puzzle. The best anxiety disorder medications work best when they’re combined with other forms of care.

Think about it: Medication can quiet the storm in your head, but therapy helps you learn how to navigate the waves. An integrated approach combines medication management with talk therapy, mindfulness practices and lifestyle changes. This whole-person approach addresses your physical, mental and emotional health and gives you the tools to build sustainable habits.

This is where a modern healthcare provider truly makes a difference. They don’t just write a prescription and send you on your way. They work with your therapist, your primary care doctor and anyone else on your team to make sure everyone is on the same page. This coordinated care ensures that you have a comprehensive and consistent support system.

Anxiety can feel like a monster, but it’s a monster you can defeat. The first step is acknowledging it and deciding to do something about it. Medication is a way to give yourself the best possible chance at living a life with less fear and more joy.

Why choose ReKlame Health for anxiety support?

At ReKlame, we are a young team of clinicians who believe that mental health care should be approachable, compassionate and effective. We understand how difficult it can be to find balance in life, and our mission is to help you take back control.

What sets us apart? We are modern care providers who are dedicated to helping you find the right path forward. We offer culturally competent and compassionate care that is tailored to your unique needs. We use evidence-based approaches of medication management and integrated care coordination with other healthcare providers to ensure that you receive the best possible support. We can also get you in for an initial consultation within 48 hours of your referral or initial contact, because we know that when you’re ready to get help, waiting isn’t an option.

Give our care team a call today for more information, check your eligibility for free online or book an initial appointment online.