The amount of time that it takes to feel the effects of anxiety medications depends on the specific medication. Short-term medications like benzodiazepines and beta blockers can provide fast relief within minutes, while long-term medications like antidepressants may take several weeks. If you do not experience benefits within these timelines, you and your provider may consider increasing your dose or changing medications.
Who Is Anxiety Medication Right For?
Anxiety is worry or fear that can range from mild to severe.1 Anxiety is a normal part of life and many people experience it from time to time. However, if anxiety becomes excessive and interferes with your functioning, then you might have an anxiety disorder.
There are several different types of anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety, social anxiety, and panic disorder. When anxiety reaches the point of becoming a disorder, treatment may be necessary. Anxiety treatment may include therapy, medication, or both, and talk to your general practitioner or a psychiatrist about starting anxiety medication.
Do Anxiety Meds Work Immediately?
The rate at which you will feel the effects of anxiety medication depends on the specific medication. Some medications work rather quickly at reducing anxiety symptoms, while others can take much longer. Benzodiazepines are one type of anxiety medication that provide immediate relief.2,3 These medications are often prescribed as-needed (PRN) for a short period of time. They can help reduce symptoms of anxiety and panic attacks fairly quickly, like intense worry, racing heart, and shaking.
Antidepressants are a group of medications used to treat both depression and anxiety.2 They can help reduce symptoms of long-term anxiety, like those of generalized anxiety disorder. These medications do not reduce symptoms immediately like benzodiazepines. They can take around four to six weeks to have full effect.
Medication for Short-Term Anxiety Relief
Short-term anxiety medications are used to treat acute anxiety and panic attacks.2 These medications can help alleviate extreme fear and physical symptoms of panic attacks, like rapid heart rate and sweating. People with social anxiety and phobias may also benefit from taking short-term anxiety medications in situations where they anticipate feeling overwhelmed.
There are several different types of short-term anxiety medications, including benzodiazepines, beta blockers, and an antihistamine called hydroxyzine.2,3,4 While these medications can all help alleviate acute fear and anxiety, there are some differences.
Beta blockers are effective at reducing the physical symptoms of anxiety, while benzodiazepines can help with both emotional and physical symptoms. Beta blockers may be preferred because they cause fewer side effects and pose less danger than benzodiazepines. They are considered to be safer for children, teens, and pregnant women. Depending on the specific type of short-term anxiety medication, it can take a few minutes to an hour or more to feel the effects, and effects may vary from individual to individual.3,5,6
The most common benzodiazepines prescribed for short-term anxiety include:3
- Alprazolam (Xanax)*
- Clonazepam (Klonopin)*
- Lorazepam (Ativan)*
- Diazepam (Valium)*
*These medications have a black box warning, the most serious kind of warnings from the FDA for abuse or misuse, risk of physical dependence, and risk of serious side effects, including death, when combined with an opioid.
When Will Short-Term Anxiety Meds Kick In?
How quickly you can expect to feel the effects of short-term anxiety medication will depend on the specific medication. Benzodiazepines, beta blockers, and antihistamines vary in how quickly they work and how long the effects last.3,5,6 Even different types of benzodiazepines differ in their onset time.3
Here’s a general timeline when you might expect to see results from short-term anxiety medication:5,6,7
- 30 minutes – If you have taken a benzodiazepine or antihistamine you will start to feel the effects of the medication and should experience relief.
- 1 hour – If you have taken a beta blocker you should begin to feel the effects.
- 2 hours – You may continue to feel the effects of the medication, but they are likely starting to wear off.
- 4-6 hours – Depending on the medication, you may still feel some of the effects.
- 24 hours – You will no longer feel the effects of the medication, though it is likely to still be detectable in your body.
Signs Your Anxiety Meds Are Working
Short-term anxiety medications provide quick relief from the emotional and physical symptoms of anxiety. Within minutes to one hour you should feel less anxious and more calm.5,6,7
Some signs your short term anxiety meds have started working may include:2
- Less anxiety and fear
- Feelings of calm and relaxation
- Decreased heart rate
- Decreased sweating
- Less shaking
Side Effects from Short-Term Anti-Anxiety Medication
Common side effects of short-term anxiety medications include fatigue, confusion, headache, blurry vision, nausea, and nightmares.2 These side effects may begin shortly after taking the medication. Long-term use of benzodiazepines can cause cognitive decline and worsen dementia in older adults.3
Be sure to talk to your doctor about any side effects that you are experiencing. If you experience swelling, rash, hives, yellowing of the skin or eyes, trouble breathing, suicidal thoughts, or seizures, talk to your doctor right away.
How Long Should You Take Fast Acting Anxiety Medication?
Benzodiazepines are intended to be taken as-needed (PRN), rather than as a daily medication.3 These medications provide benefits rather quickly, which makes them helpful for panic attacks. Because long-term use of these medications can lead to addiction, dependence, and memory issues, they are usually only prescribed for short periods of time.
Chronic anxiety is treated with antidepressants or buspirone (Buspar).2 If you are taking or considering taking benzodiazepines, speak to your doctor and treatment team to come up with a plan that works for you.
Medication for Long-Term Anxiety Relief
Long-term anxiety medications are effective at treating chronic anxiety.2,4They are ideal for when you feel anxious day after day. These medications can help treat generalized anxiety, social anxiety, and panic disorder. Long-term anxiety medications are intended to be taken daily and can take up to six weeks to experience the full benefits.
Antidepressants are often prescribed for treating long-term anxiety.2 Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are a type of antidepressant that help alleviate anxiety by increasing serotonin in the brain. Buspirone (Buspar) is another type of medication that is also used to treat chronic anxiety.
The most common antidepressants prescribed for chronic anxiety include:4
- Fluoxetine (Prozac)*
- Sertraline (Zoloft)*
- Paroxetine (Paxil)*
- Escitalopram (Lexapro)*
*These medications have a black box warning, the most serious warning from the FDA for the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in certain people. Before starting any of these medications, you should talk with your doctor about these risks.
How Long Does It Take for Antidepressants to Work?
Antidepressants do not provide the same instant relief that short-term anxiety medications do. These medications may take four to six weeks to build up in your body and for you to feel their effects.2 You may notice some relief after a few weeks, but your prescriber will likely caution you to wait at least six weeks before deciding if the medication is helpful or not.
Here is a general timeline outlining when you might expect to see results from antidepressants:2,4
- 1 Day – No results after 24 hours.
- 1 Week – If you are taking these medications daily then they are gradually building up in your body. You are probably not noticing any changes yet.
- 2 Weeks – The medication is continuing to build up in your body. Some people notice slight improvements at this point.
- 1 Month – You are probably starting to notice some effects and may feel less anxious.
- 3 Months – At this point you should be experiencing the full effects of the medication.
- 6 Months – Many prescribers recommend remaining on antidepressants for at least six months. If you’d like to wean off at this point, speak to your doctor.
- 1 Year – After one year, you may continue to take antidepressants if you are finding them helpful, or you may consider coming off of them. Always speak to your prescriber before stopping.
- After 1 Year – Some people continue taking antidepressants for several years. If you are experiencing benefits and your doctor feels it’s safe, you can continue taking them.
Signs Your Antidepressant Medication is Working
Antidepressants can help improve symptoms of both depression and anxiety, which in turn can also improve your sleep, appetite, and energy level.2,8 The effects of these medications can take several weeks to notice. Because of the way these medications work, it is important to take them each day as prescribed and avoid skipping doses.
Some signs your antidepressants have started working may include:8
- Decreased anxiety
- Improved mood
- Better sleep
- Increased energy
- Increased appetite
Side Effects of Antidepressants
Antidepressants are generally safe but may cause uncomfortable side effects.2 Some side effects, however, may go away after a few weeks of taking the medication.10 If you experience any adverse effects, talk to your doctor before stopping your medication. In some cases there may be ways to address certain side effects, like taking the medication after a meal to reduce nausea.
Some common, early side effects of antidepressants include:2,9
- Headache
- Stomach problems like nausea, vomiting, constipation, and diarrhea
- Weight gain
- Low energy
- Sweating
- Sexual problems
How Long Should You Take Antidepressants for Anxiety?
The amount of time you should take antidepressants for anxiety depends on your personal situation. Some people benefit from taking them for three to six months, while other people may need to stay on them for years.4 Your prescriber will talk to you about what length of treatment is best for you.
If you want to stop taking antidepressants, talk to your provider first. Do not wean off antidepressants on your own because abruptly stopping may cause withdrawal symptoms.2 Always talk to your provider about your experiences on antidepressants and follow the recommended treatment plan.
How to Get the Most Out of Your Anti-Anxiety Medication
Some people experience benefits from the first medication that they try, while others may have to change doses, medications, or add additional medications to find the right treatment regimen. Combining therapy and medication together can help improve outcomes.1 If you feel that you’re not responding to your medication, speak to your prescriber about your concerns.
Some additional ways to ensure you’re getting the most out of your anxiety medication(s) include:
Speaking With a Therapist
Combining medication with therapy is recommended to treat anxiety.1 Talking to a therapist allows you to understand your anxiety better and learn ways to cope with it. There are several different types of therapy that can help treat anxiety, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and exposure therapy.4
Taking Multiple Medications
Some people find that one medication is not enough to adequately treat their symptoms. Combining more than one medication, like a benzodiazepine and antidepressant, can be helpful if you are dealing with both short and long-term anxiety.11
Increasing Dosage
If you don’t notice improvements at your current dose, you might benefit from working with your doctor on increasing your dose. Many people start at a low dose and gradually increase it over time. The maximum dose and amount that you can increase varies from medication to medication.
Changing Medication
If changing your dose doesn’t improve your symptoms, you and your doctor might consider changing medications altogether. Some people respond to certain medications better than others, so you may have to try more than one medication to find the right one.2
Get an Annual Physical Exam
Some physical health conditions can cause anxiety, so it’s important to rule these out. Be sure to have a physical exam and blood work done each year to make sure that you do not have any health conditions that could be causing your anxiety.
Improve Your Self-Care
Taking care of your physical and mental health by eating well, exercising, getting good sleep, and managing your stress is another way to help ensure that your medications are working properly.
Questions to Ask Your Health Team About Anxiety Medication
It’s normal to have questions before starting a new medication. You might be wondering how to take the medication, potential risks, side effects, and contraindications. It can help to write down all your questions beforehand and bring them to your first appointment. Don’t hesitate to ask your prescriber any questions that are on your mind.
Questions to ask your care team about anxiety treatment and medication include:
- How much and how often should I take this medication?
- How should I feel on this medication?
- What are the common side effects?
- When should I contact you if I experience side effects?
- Are there any medications or foods that I should avoid?
- What other actions can I take in addition to medication to help manage my anxiety?
If at any point you feel like harming yourself or are suicidal, contact 911 or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 right away.
Final Thoughts
The amount of time it takes for your anxiety medication to work will depend on the type of medication you are taking. Some medications provide relief within minutes, while others may take over a month. If you have any concerns about your anxiety medication, don’t hesitate to speak with your provider.
Anxiety Medication Infographics
