Here is a list of commonly prescribed anxiety medications, along with their therapeutic benefits and potential side effects:
1. Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)

Examples: Fluoxetine (Prozac), Sertraline (Zoloft), Escitalopram (Lexapro)
Therapeutic Benefits:
Increase serotonin levels in the brain, which can improve mood and reduce anxiety.
Often used for long-term management of anxiety disorders.
Side Effects:
Nausea
Insomnia or drowsiness
Sexual dysfunction
Weight gain

2. Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs)

Examples: Venlafaxine (Effexor XR), Duloxetine (Cymbalta)
Therapeutic Benefits:
Increase levels of serotonin and norepinephrine, helping to improve mood and reduce anxiety.
Side Effects:
Nausea
Dizziness
Dry mouth
Increased blood pressure

3. Benzodiazepines:

Examples: Alprazolam (Xanax), Lorazepam (Ativan), Diazepam (Valium)
Therapeutic Benefits:
Provide rapid relief from acute anxiety symptoms.
Effective for short-term use or as needed basis.
Side Effects:
Drowsiness or sedation
Dependence and withdrawal issues with long-term use
Memory problems

4. Tricyclic Antidepressants:

Examples: Amitriptyline, Imipramine, Nortriptyline
Therapeutic Benefits:
Can be effective for certain types of anxiety disorders such as panic disorder or generalized anxiety disorder.
Sometimes used when other medications are not effective.

-Side Effects:

Dry mouth
Constipation
Blurred vision

5. Beta Blockers :

Examples : Propranolol , Atenolol

-Therapeutic benefits : Help manage physical symptoms associated with performance-related anxieties like rapid heart rate , trembling etc .

-Side effects : Fatigue , cold hands/feet , dizziness .

Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any medication to ensure it’s appropriate based on individual health conditions .