Which medication is commonly prescribed for anxiety disorders?

Sertraline is commonly prescribed for anxiety disorders because it is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), which is a class of medications that are effective in treating various anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and panic disorder. SSRIs like sertraline work by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain, which can help to improve mood and reduce anxiety over time.

The onset of therapeutic effects can take several weeks, making it suitable for long-term management of anxiety symptoms. It is considered a first-line treatment because of its efficacy and generally favorable side effect profile compared to other medications used for anxiety.

Other options may have therapeutic uses but are not first-line treatments specifically for anxiety disorders. For instance, gabapentin is primarily used for nerve pain and seizures, while diazepam, a benzodiazepine, is effective for short-term management of anxiety but poses a risk for dependence and is not typically recommended for long-term use. Clonidine is mainly used to treat hypertension and ADHD and is not a standard treatment for anxiety disorders.