Anxiety can feel overwhelming. It may cause your heart to race or your hands to shake. It can also disrupt your sleep.
Many people take anxiety medication to feel calm and secure. These medicines can be highly beneficial, but they may also cause side effects.
If you’re wondering, “What if my anxiety medication causes side effects?”
Below, we explain what to do if anxiety medication causes side effects and how to manage them effectively.
Understanding Anxiety Medication and Side Effects
Anxiety medication works on the brain. It helps balance chemicals that affect mood and stress. These medicines can reduce worry, fear, panic and restlessness.
But everybody is different. A medicine that works well for one person may feel different for another. That is why some people may notice side effects.
A side effect is a change in your body that happens after you start a new medicine. Some side effects are mild. Some are short-term. Most get better with time.
Common side effects may include:
- Feeling sleepy
- Feeling dizzy
- Upset stomach
- Headache
- Dry mouth
- Changes in sleep
- Changes in appetite
These effects can feel scary at first. But many of them improve as your body adjusts.
What If My Anxiety Medication Causes Side Effects?
If you notice side effects, do not panic. First, notice your feelings. Are they mild or intense? Are they improving or deteriorating? Track your symptoms and their timing. This information can assist your clinician in clarifying your issues.
Do not stop your medicine on your own. Stopping suddenly can cause new symptoms. It can also make anxiety come back stronger.
Instead, call your provider. Tell them what you feel. Be honest and clear.
Your provider may:
- Lower the dose
- Change the time you take the medicine
- Switch to a different medication
- Add support to ease the side effects
Safe medication management helps reduce risk. At Veve Health Services LLC, we prioritize safe medication management and personalized care.
How Long Do Anxiety Medication Side Effects Last?
Many side effects are strongest in the first one to two weeks. During this time, your body is learning how to adjust.
For many people, mild symptoms fade away. Sleep improves. Nausea settles. Energy returns.
If a side effect lasts longer than a few weeks or feels severe, contact us at Veve Health Services LLC. We do not ignore your concerns. Your comfort matters.
When Are Side Effects Serious?
Most side effects are mild. But some signs need quick help. At Veve Health Services LLC, we teach our patients what to watch for.
Call us right away if you notice:
- Severe rash
- Trouble breathing
- Swelling of the face or throat
- Strong mood changes
- Thoughts of harm
How We Manage Anxiety Medication Side Effects
At Veve Health Services LLC, we focus on personalized medication management. We do not guess. We assess. We monitor. We adjust care based on your needs and the recommended best time to take anxiety meds.
We use a holistic approach. This means we look at your whole life, not just your symptoms.
Our care includes:
- Careful diagnosis
- Clear explanation of medication options
- Ongoing follow-up visits
- Therapy support
- Psychoeducation
- Cultural sensitivity
We treat clients from ages 15 to 65. We have strong experience in adolescent psychiatry and adult psychiatry. This helps us choose the right treatment plan for each stage of life.
Finding the right medication can make a world of difference. We adjust slowly and safely. Our goal is always effectiveness with minimal side effects.
What Can You Do to Reduce Side Effects?
There are small steps that can help your body adjust.
You can:
- Take medication at the same time each day
- Take it with food if your stomach feels upset
- Drink enough water
- Get enough sleep
- Avoid alcohol unless your provider approves
Final Words
If your anxiety medicine causes side effects, do not panic. Keep notes and tell your care team. Do not stop medicine by yourself. Call your provider for help.
Veve Health Services LLC offers medication management, therapy and caring support for people ages 15 to 65. We help you find a plan with minimal side effects.
Reach out to your care team for help. We’ll listen and make a safe plan with you.
FAQs
Can I recover from anxiety even if the first medicine does not work?
Yes. Many people find relief after adjusting their medication plan. Recovery can be achieved with proper care.
Are anxiety medications addictive?
Some types can be addictive if misused. That is why careful monitoring is important. At Veve Health Services LLC, our provider will guide you safely.