Top 6 Medications to Manage Anxiety Effectively

Anxiety disorders involve frequent, intense feelings of unease related to various activities or situations. Often linked to panic attacks, these episodes feature sudden, overwhelming fear that peaks within minutes and can persist longer, disrupting daily routines.

Common symptoms include excessive nervousness, restlessness, rapid breathing, trembling, and a sense of impending danger. Conditions like social anxiety, generalized anxiety, and separation anxiety fall under this category. While therapy and lifestyle adjustments are crucial, certain medications can also help control anxiety symptoms.

Buspirone (Buspar)
This cost-effective medication targets generalized anxiety with fewer sedative effects. The popular Buspar formulation is available through GoodRx Gold at up to 77% off, costing $4.55 for 60 tablets of 10mg. Always consult a healthcare professional for appropriate dosage and ensure the medication suits your needs.

Alprazolam ER (Xanax XR)
A benzodiazepine commonly prescribed for panic disorders and anxiety, Alprazolam ER is available in various forms including tablets and orally disintegrating tablets. GoodRx Gold provides significant savings; for example, 30 tablets of 1mg may cost just $7.13, saving up to 86%.

Diazepam (Valium)
This benzodiazepine is used to reduce anxiety, relax muscles, manage alcohol withdrawal, and control seizures. Generic and brand options are available, with prices as low as $2.62 for 30 tablets of 5mg through GoodRx Gold, offering discounts up to 83%.

Phenelzine (Nardil)
An MAOI antidepressant often reserved for treatment-resistant cases, Phenelzine helps alleviate depression and anxiety when other medications are ineffective. Discounts via GoodRx Gold can reduce costs to about $29.45 for 120 tablets of 15mg, depending on the pack.

Fluoxetine (Prozac)
Used to treat a range of psychological conditions like OCD, eating disorders, and anxiety, Fluoxetine is available in tablets, capsules, and liquids. With a GoodRx Gold membership, the price can drop to $2.85 for 30 capsules of 20mg, achieving discounts up to 89%.

Lorazepam (Ativan)
This benzodiazepine helps relax the body and reduce anxiety symptoms. It’s popular and available in both brand and generic forms, costing around $3 for 30 tablets of 1mg via GoodRx Gold, with discounts reaching 80%.

Note that medication prices vary across pharmacies, and discounts depend on dosage and purchase quantities. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting any medication for anxiety management.