Anxiolytics are a type of medication used to reduce anxiety and, in combination with psychotherapy, help you learn to cope with feared situations (Myers, 2006).
Specifically, these drugs depress the activity of the central nervous system, slowing heart and respiratory rates while reducing feelings of nervousness and tension. Examples of anxiolytics are alprazolam (Xanax) and diazepam (Valium). Diazepam and chlordiazepoxide are benzodiazepines and were initially called minor tranquilizers, while antipsychotics were called major tranquilizers (Myers, 2006; Gross, 2005; Rathus, 2007).
Benzodiazepines are characterized by their 4 pharmacological effects: hypnotic, antoconvulsant, anxiolytic and muscle relaxant. However, each benzodiazepine contains them in different proportions, which is why this determines its action profile ().
Criticisms of the use of this drug are that it relieves symptoms without resolving the underlying problems and that it can produce psychological dependence, since the person will tend to take it every time they feel anxiety, which is why its prolonged use is not recommended (Myers, 2006). There have also been reported cases in which the individual presents withdrawal syndrome after more than 6 months of use (Gross, 2005).
The biggest side effect of these drugs is the feeling of fatigue (Rathus, 2007).
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Note: If you are taking anxiolytics, do not stop or modify them without consulting your doctor.
Fountain:
Gross, R. (2005), Psychology, the science of mind and behavior 5th edition. Hodder Arnold Publication
Myers, D. (2006), Psychology 7th edition. Panamericana Medical Editorial:Madrid
Rathus, S. (2007), Psychology. Principles in practice. Holt, Rinehart and Winston: U.S.