Conditions · FAQ
What side effects should I watch for with anxiety medication?
Short answer
Side effects depend on the anxiety medication. SSRIs may cause nausea, headache, sleep changes, or sexual side effects. Some people feel more restless at first. Contact your prescriber about troubling symptoms. Get urgent help for suicidal thoughts, severe agitation, or signs of a serious allergic reaction.
Each anxiety medication has its own risks. SSRIs may cause nausea, loose stools, headache, sweating, sleep changes, or sexual side effects. Some people notice more anxiety or restlessness when starting treatment. Your prescriber or pharmacist can explain the risks for your specific medication.
Tell your physician about side effects that disrupt daily life. Do not change your dose on your own. The next step may depend on how severe the symptom is, when it started, and whether you take other medicines.
Antidepressants carry a warning about increased suicidal thoughts or behaviors in children, teens, and young adults, especially early in treatment or after dose changes. Anyone taking them should report new or worsening mood symptoms. Also report unusually high energy, risky behavior, or a much lower need for sleep.
Call 911 for trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or immediate danger. Fever, confusion, severe agitation, and muscle stiffness may signal a serious drug reaction. Seek urgent care. If you are in crisis, call or text 988.
Sources
Written by the Verra clinical team · Medical review pending
General information, not medical advice. If you're in crisis, call or text 988.