Health Topics for Medications

Tranquilizers

Tranquilizers are more properly known as anti-anxiety drugs. These drugs have a calming effect on people. The most common class of anti-anxiety drugs is the benzodiazepines. Examples of benzodiazepines include oxazepam (Serax), lorazepam (Ativan), alprazolam (Xanax), chlordiazepoxide (Librium), and diazepam (Valium). There are other types of anti-anxiety agents such as buspirone (BuSpar), hydroxyzine (Atarax or Vistaril), and doxepin (Sinequan).

Anti-anxiety drugs are useful in the treatment of stress and crisis disorders. They are used in panic attacks, phobias, and other anxiety disorders. They are useful for short-term anxiety during crisis situations.

Most of the anti-anxiety drugs can be addictive. People may need higher and higher doses to maintain the effects. Once dependent on these drugs, it is difficult to stop. For instance, people who suddenly stop taking alprazolam (Xanax) may have seizures after several days. Tapering slowly off the drugs will avoid this.

People who drink alcohol or who are older adults must take special care with anti-anxiety drugs. People who combine anti-anxiety drugs and alcohol increase the effects of both drugs. Anti-anxiety drugs stay in the elderly longer. The sedating effects may also be stronger. Older adults may be at more risk from falls due to the effects of these drugs. Some geriatric specialists suggest that almost no one over the age of 60 be placed on a benzodiazepine. If an older adult is on such a drug, a lower dose is best.

If you suspect that someone you care about has become addicted to prescription drugs, it is important to take action. Speak to the person and, if possible, to his or her healthcare provider. Because the drugs are legal, many people do not take prescription drug addiction seriously. However, like any other addiction, it can result in serious health problems.

Last Reviewed 2005

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

HIL File MEDI4753.RF2 VRS# 4753 Data Version 7.0 Copyright 1998, 2003 McKesson Health Solutions LLC. All rights reserved.