15 Unanticipated Twists and Turns of Anxiety Medication Side Effects
Anxiety disorders are one of several subtypes of mental health disorders out there, and within this category, there are several different disorders. Generalized anxiety disorder occurs when an individual experiences generally heightened anxiety about day-to-day life. A panic disorder occurs when someone has panic attacks. Obsessive-compulsive disorder refers to anxiety that centers around repetitive obsessions and compulsions. Social anxiety is anxiety that manifests in social situations, while specific phobias are extreme fears of specific things. Several medications are used to treat anxiety disorders, and each has different potential side effects. If patients are experiencing side effects as a result of your anxiety medication, it can help to talk to a doctor about them to see if the medication can be adjusted. We've expanded our list to take a look at 15 unexpected twists and turns of anxiety medication you should always be aware of.
1. Fatigue Or Drowsiness
Individuals who take anti-anxiety medications often experience fatigue or drowsiness. The two types of anxiety medication that most often cause drowsiness and tiredness are benzodiazepines and tricyclic antidepressants. The most common tricyclic antidepressants to cause tiredness are amitriptyline, imipramine, trimipramine, and doxepin. If these medications are making patients feel tired, they should talk to their doctor about whether they should change their dose or try another medication. Patients should not, however, stop taking their medication without first talking to their doctor. Benzodiazepines that can cause tiredness include lorazepam, diazepam, clonazepam, and alprazolam. Because benzodiazepines can cause dependence when taken for long periods, they should be prescribed only on a short-term basis until the anxiety is better managed. Patients might feel weak and drowsy immediately after taking their medication, and this feeling might last for anywhere from a couple of hours to multiple days. The exact levels of fatigue and time they last varies depending on the type of benzodiazepine a patient takes.
2. Confusion
Confusion is a potential side effect of many medications for anxiety. Serious confusion can be a sign of a serious medical condition, so if individuals are suddenly experiencing confusion about where they are, what they're doing, or even who they are, they may need to seek emergency medical treatment. Other types of confusion are milder. Anxiety medications might cause impaired cognitive function on a few different levels. Patients might have trouble with short-term and long-term memory. It may also be difficult to focus on the tasks at hand, and patients may lose track of where they are in a task and need to start over. When reading a book or article, patients might need to reread the same passage several times for it to sink in. It might also be difficult to follow threads of different conversations, and patients might feel like they're missing things they normally wouldn't. When the confusion is serious enough to impact day-to-day functioning, patients need to talk to their doctor about potential ways to mitigate it.
3. Issues Sleeping
Anxiety medication can sometimes cause issues sleeping, but at the same time, anxiety itself is well-known for causing sleep issues. If a patient's anxiety medication causes drowsiness, it can disrupt their overall sleep schedule. Varying medications can affect an individual's sleep and wake cycle. They might also give patients strange dreams or make them more likely to wake up in the middle of the night. If a patient's medication is making them so restless that sleep feels impossible, they should talk to their doctor. With that said, the first thing to do is always to practice good sleep hygiene. Rather than lying in bed awake, if individuals are not asleep within twenty minutes, they should get up and do something relaxing, then try to sleep again. They should also keep the bedroom cool and lights dark or dimmed. If you can, reduce or eliminate outside noises. Individuals who live in noisy areas should consider using a white noise machine or headphones to reduce the amount of distracting noise filtering in. Some individuals also say that they benefit from journaling before bed, putting all their worries for the day down on paper to keep them out of their heads.
4. Blurry Vision
Blurry vision is one of the most common ocular effects of anxiety medication, especially when patients are taking selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) to combat anxiety. SSRIs are the most commonly prescribed antidepressant and anxiety medication. They can cause trouble with near focusing because they affect the way the pupil functions, which then affects the way the eye perceives light. One of the most common places patients notice this is when they try to read. Focusing on the text on a page might be difficult, and they might need larger print than they did before. Patients who notice this tend to be younger, and they might need to use reading glasses. The blurry vision can usually be corrected, and on its own doesn't tend to be cause for concern. However, the changes in vision can become more serious or even debilitating if the patient already has another eye condition. Individuals with dry eye or glaucoma may find that the focusing issues from SSRIs severely impair their vision.
5. Issues With Memory Or Concentration
Anti-anxiety medications can cause problems with memory or concentration similar to problems with confusion. They may slow down a patient's cognitive function and make it hard to focus on a task or remember what they're doing. Patients might feel like it takes a lot more time to get things done than it usually does. There might also be some impairment of an individual's executive functioning, which is the ability to prioritize and execute tasks. In older patients, these symptoms can become more serious. It's highly recommended for elderly patients to avoid taking medications that can impair their concentration and memory. If they do, they should monitor the effects closely with their doctor. Problems with concentration and memory can sometimes be mitigated by making lifestyle changes and learning coping strategies. There are ways to 'trick' the brain into focusing or to complete tasks without expending too much mental energy.
6. Nausea or Gastrointestinal Distress
Nausea and gastrointestinal issues are common side effects of anxiety medications, particularly selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). These medications can disrupt the digestive system because serotonin, a key neurotransmitter targeted by these drugs, also plays a significant role in gut function. Patients may experience symptoms like nausea, stomach cramps, diarrhea, or constipation, especially when starting a new medication or adjusting their dosage. Often, these side effects are temporary and resolve as the body adapts to the medication. To manage nausea, patients are advised to take their medication with food and stay hydrated. Eating smaller, frequent meals and avoiding foods that are rich, greasy, or spicy may also help. If symptoms persist or worsen, it's crucial to discuss them with a healthcare provider, as an alternative medication or adjustment to the dose may alleviate the discomfort.
7. Changes in Appetite
Changes in appetite, either increased or decreased, are another common side effect of many anxiety medications. SSRIs, for example, can sometimes lead to weight gain due to an increase in appetite, while others might cause a loss of appetite. For some individuals, these changes can result in noticeable weight fluctuations over time. A decrease in appetite may also lead to nutritional deficiencies if it becomes difficult to maintain a balanced diet. Patients should monitor their eating habits and weight while taking anxiety medication, making a note of any significant changes. If appetite changes are causing distress or health concerns, it may be necessary to adjust the medication. Consulting with a doctor or dietitian can help patients find strategies to maintain a healthy diet and manage weight changes effectively.
8. Dizziness or Lightheadedness
Dizziness or lightheadedness is a potential side effect of anxiety medications, particularly benzodiazepines and tricyclic antidepressants. These sensations often occur when standing up quickly, a condition known as orthostatic hypotension. This happens because some medications can lower blood pressure or affect how the body adjusts to changes in position. Patients experiencing dizziness should stand up slowly from a seated or lying position and avoid sudden movements. Drinking plenty of water and staying hydrated can also help mitigate symptoms. If dizziness persists, it may interfere with daily activities, such as driving or operating machinery, and should be discussed with a doctor. A dose adjustment or change in medication may be necessary to reduce the impact of this side effect.
9. Emotional Numbness
Some individuals taking anxiety medications, particularly SSRIs, report feeling emotionally numb or disconnected. This side effect, often described as a "blunting" of emotions, can make it difficult to feel happiness, sadness, or other emotions as strongly as before. While emotional numbness can be helpful in reducing anxiety and extreme distress, it may also negatively impact relationships and quality of life. Patients experiencing this side effect should discuss it with their healthcare provider, as there may be alternative medications or therapeutic interventions to help restore emotional balance. In some cases, adding therapy alongside medication can provide tools to process emotions more effectively, even with the dampening effects of certain drugs.
10. Sexual Dysfunction
Sexual dysfunction, including decreased libido, difficulty achieving arousal, or challenges with orgasm, is a well-documented side effect of many anxiety medications, particularly SSRIs and SNRIs. These medications can interfere with the brain's chemical pathways that regulate sexual function. Sexual side effects can significantly impact an individual's intimate relationships and overall well-being. Patients should not feel embarrassed to discuss these concerns with their doctor, as there are potential solutions. Sometimes, adjusting the medication's dosage, switching to a different drug, or adding a complementary medication can improve sexual functioning. Non-pharmaceutical approaches, such as therapy or lifestyle adjustments, may also help address the psychological and relational aspects of this side effect.
11. Sweating or Flushing
Excessive sweating or flushing is another side effect reported by individuals taking anxiety medications, particularly SSRIs. These symptoms may occur during the day or as night sweats, potentially disrupting sleep. While sweating is generally harmless, it can be uncomfortable or embarrassing in social or professional settings. Patients experiencing this side effect may benefit from wearing breathable fabrics, staying hydrated, and using antiperspirants. If sweating becomes excessive or affects daily life, discussing it with a healthcare provider is important, as there may be options to adjust the medication or mitigate the symptoms.
12. Restlessness
Restlessness, often described as a feeling of being unable to sit still, can occur as a side effect of anxiety medications like SSRIs or as a withdrawal symptom from benzodiazepines. This sensation, called akathisia, can be distressing and interfere with concentration and relaxation. Patients experiencing restlessness should inform their doctor, as adjustments to the medication or adding a treatment to counteract this side effect may help. Exercise, mindfulness, and relaxation techniques can also provide relief by channeling excess energy and calming the nervous system.
13. Dry Mouth
Dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, is a common side effect of anxiety medications, particularly tricyclic antidepressants and benzodiazepines. Reduced saliva production can lead to discomfort, bad breath, and an increased risk of dental issues like cavities. Patients experiencing dry mouth should drink water frequently, chew sugar-free gum, or use saliva substitutes. Regular dental check-ups are essential to prevent oral health problems. If the dry mouth persists or becomes severe, discussing it with a healthcare provider can help determine if an alternative medication or additional treatment is needed.
14. Increased Heart Rate
Some anxiety medications, particularly SNRIs, may cause an increased heart rate or palpitations as a side effect. While this can be concerning, it is often harmless. However, patients with preexisting heart conditions or a history of cardiovascular issues should monitor their heart rate closely and report any irregularities to their doctor. Managing this side effect may involve switching medications or adjusting the dosage. Lifestyle changes, such as reducing caffeine intake and practicing stress-reduction techniques, may also help regulate heart rate.
15. Mood Swings
Mood swings, including irritability or sudden emotional shifts, can occur as a side effect of anxiety medications, especially during the initial adjustment period. These changes are often temporary and subside as the body adapts to the medication. However, if mood swings persist or worsen, they may indicate the need for a dosage adjustment or a different medication. Patients experiencing severe mood swings should inform their healthcare provider, as this may help prevent complications and ensure the treatment plan remains effective.
Conclusion: Be Informed About Your Treatment
Anxiety medications can be lifesaving tools for managing mental health, but they also come with a range of potential side effects. Understanding these effects empowers patients to advocate for themselves and work collaboratively with their healthcare providers. Communication is key—never hesitate to discuss concerns or side effects with a doctor, as adjustments to the treatment plan can make a significant difference. Each individual's experience with anxiety and its treatment is unique, and finding the right balance may take time. Patience, self-awareness, and professional support are vital for achieving long-term mental health and well-being.