| Drug | Use | Side Effects/Cautions |
|---|---|---|
| Benzodiazepines Ativan (lorazepam) | For specific stress: Medium acting | Drowsiness, ↓ mental alertness, ↓ BP, headache Lethal overdose with alcohol |
| Klonopin (clonazepam) Librium (chlordiazepoxide) | Long acting Long acting | High risk for dependency with long-term use; taper gradually over 2–6 wk |
| Serax (oxazepam) Valium (diazepam) | Short acting | Symptoms with abrupt withdrawal: irritability, dizziness |
| Tranxene (clorazepate) Xanax (alprazolam) | Short acting | Do not use in pregnancy Paradoxical reactions (euphoria, excitement) |
| Beta-adrenergic blocker Inderal (propranolol hydrochloride) | Stage fright Relief of physical signs of anxiety (tachycardia) | Hypotension Bradycardia No risk of dependence or abuse |
| Buspirone hydrochloride BuSpar | Long-term use | Less sedation; no risk of dependence Delayed effect (3 wk); no CNS depression |
| Diphenylmethane antihistamines Atarax (hydroxyzine hydrochloride) Vistaril (hydroxyzine pamoate) | Safe for long-term use | No risk of physical dependency or abuse; minimal toxicity May cause drowsiness |
Adapted from © Lagerquist S: Nurse Notes: Psychiatric-Mental Health. Philadelphia, Lippincott.