Which medication is commonly prescribed for anxiety?

Ativan, which is a brand name for lorazepam, is commonly prescribed for anxiety because it belongs to the benzodiazepine class of medications. Benzodiazepines are known for their anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing), sedative, and muscle-relaxing properties. They work by enhancing the effect of the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) at the GABA-A receptor, leading to a calming effect on the brain and reducing feelings of anxiety.

While other medications like Zoloft (sertraline) and Prozac (fluoxetine), which are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), can also be effective for anxiety, they are typically used for long-term management and may take several weeks to show their full effect. Lithium is primarily used to treat bipolar disorder and is not indicated for anxiety disorders. Therefore, Ativan is often preferred for short-term relief of acute anxiety symptoms due to its rapid onset of action.