Which class of drugs is typically prescribed to treat anxiety disorders?

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors, or SSRIs, are commonly prescribed for the treatment of anxiety disorders primarily due to their efficacy in increasing serotonin levels in the brain. By inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin, these medications enhance serotonergic transmission, which is thought to improve mood and reduce anxiety.

SSRIs have a favorable safety profile and are generally well-tolerated, making them a first-line treatment option for various anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and social anxiety disorder. Their therapeutic effects can take several weeks to become noticeable, which differentiates them from benzodiazepines, another class often used for anxiety but for different reasons, such as immediate relief of acute anxiety symptoms.

In contrast, other classes of drugs, like anticonvulsants, are primarily used to manage seizure disorders and may have a secondary use in some anxiety conditions, but they are not typically the first choice. Stimulants are commonly used to treat ADHD and can potentially exacerbate anxiety symptoms. Neuroleptics, or antipsychotics, are mainly used to treat psychotic disorders and may not address the underlying mechanisms of anxiety effectively. Thus, the distinct role of SSRIs in managing anxiety disorders makes them the correct answer