Which type of drugs are primarily used to treat anxiety?

Anxiolytics are specifically designed to alleviate symptoms of anxiety. They work by influencing the brain's neurochemistry, often enhancing the effects of the neurotransmitter GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), which promotes relaxation and reduces nervousness. This class of medication includes well-known drugs such as benzodiazepines, which are effective for short-term relief of acute anxiety symptoms.

In contrast, antipsychotics are typically used to treat conditions like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. They are not primarily targeted towards anxiety, thus making them less effective for individuals suffering from anxiety disorders.

Stimulants are generally used to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. They increase arousal and alertness, which can actually exacerbate feelings of anxiety rather than alleviate them.

Opioids are primarily used for pain relief. They act on the brain’s pain pathways but do not address anxiety symptoms in a targeted manner, and their use carries a risk of dependence and other serious side effects.

This distinction emphasizes why anxiolytics are the most suitable choice for treating anxiety disorders.