If you suffer from anxiety attacks and are looking for the safest antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications to use, then I have to tell you that there are none. All drugs for the treatment and management of anxiety can lead to serious problems when taken over long periods of time and in combination with other medications. Moreover, some people may not tolerate any amount of antidepressants and anti-anxiety drugs and will have adverse reactions.
Beyond the common side effects like dizziness, nausea, or stomach upset, the use of antidepressants such as SSRIs, TCAs, and MAOIs have been found to increase the risk of suicidal thinking and behavior in children, teenagers, and young adults who were taking them. Researchers of clinical trials observed some changes in behavior in this group of people; and thus warn all patients and family members to report to the patient’s health provider right away the symptoms of agitation, hostility, aggressiveness, impulsiveness, or restlessness.
In the case of anti-anxiety drug use, the risk of drug addiction and dependence is increased when benzodiazepines are taken over time. This is because these drugs are found to be habit-forming. Also, these drugs lose their therapeutic effect after 4 to 6 months of regular use. Hence, drug tolerance develops since increasingly larger doses are needed to get the same anxiety relief as before.
We have to understand though why people who suffer from anxiety and depression need to know. Anxiety and depression may have interfered with them all their lives that they want to find out if there really is a drug that can cure their disorders. Imagine what it feels like living a “defective” life. They have very low self-esteem, lack confident and very unease at situations that they know will trigger their anxiety and depression. They can’t openly talk about their episodes of depression and anxiety because it will bring too much stress and because talking about it is like describing a horror movie where the character is no one else but them.
Many years ago, a psychologist who specializes in depression and anxiety disorders made an amazing discovery. He kept himself updated with all the leading therapies and possible cure for depilating illness like anxiety disorders, panic disorders and depression. He tried almost everything. Yet no matter what therapy or medication modality he tried, the cure rate was low. Of course, patients made progress but he felt it was only incremental. The therapy took years, not months. A reason why it may not be considered a success is because some people are afraid to give up their ìspecial illnessî. Their identity is wrapped up in it. They have had their depression, anxiety and fear for so long that they don’t know who they would be without them. They hate what they feel, yet they are holding on to it as if they can’t live without it.
Sufferers are themselves afraid of taking chances in taking prescription medications for they are aware of their harmful side effects. These side effects can ruin them both physically and emotionally. People like them may be better satisfied with talk therapy, even if it means extensive sessions that may cost them some money and with lower success rate. But it is what some people want and seem to need.
What is the safest antidepressant and anti-anxiety drug? There is no safe answer for this. As all prescription medications have its own side effects that may bring about other serious illnesses. So why should we gamble?
When we are stressed and depressed, it can be difficult to try and make positive life changes. But it’s always important to remember that none of the antidepressant and anti-anxiety drugs can be called ìsafeî. It’s imperative that you consult a health care expert before taking any medications.
So, what is the safest antidepressant and anti-anxiety drug? The answer is none.
