Other medication

• Antipsychotic drugs (neuroleptics, atypical antipsychotics) are frequently prescribed for the relief of anxiety symptoms. They are valuable both in the short and long term and as an alternative to benzodiazepines which have an associated risk of possible tolerance and dependence. Antipsychotics may also be useful in combating anxiety in patients who do not respond to antidepressants or sedative drugs, or in patients who should not be treated with these types of medication. Possible side effects from antipsychotic drugs include weight gain and an increased risk of developing diabetes, so weight, blood sugar and cholesterol should be monitored regularly. Longer-term use can result in the patient experiencing involuntary muscle contractions.
  
• Beta-blockers are a class of drugs used to treat heart problems but they are often prescribed for anxiety symptoms because they work by blocking the action of adrenalin at the heart.  They lower the heart rate, relax pressure in blood vessel walls, and decrease the force of heart contractions, all of which make us feel calmer. Two beta-blockers commonly prescribed for anxiety disorders, including panic disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder, are propranolol and atenolol. Possible side effects associated with beta-blockers include:
  
  o light-headedness
  o fatigue
  o cold hands and feet
  o dry mouth, eyes and skin