Which drug is often used as a first-line treatment for generalized anxiety disorder?

SNRIs, or serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, are often used as a first-line treatment for generalized anxiety disorder due to their efficacy in increasing the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. This dual action helps alleviate anxiety symptoms more effectively than other classes of medications. Clinical guidelines support the use of SNRIs for anxiety because they have a favorable safety profile and can be effective in long-term management, making them ideal for conditions like generalized anxiety disorder.

Benzodiazepines, while effective for short-term relief of anxiety symptoms, are generally not recommended as a first-line treatment due to the potential for dependence and tolerance. Tricyclic antidepressants, although they can sometimes be effective, are not typically the first choice due to a higher side effect burden compared to SNRIs. Beta blockers are primarily used for physical symptoms of anxiety, such as palpitations or tremors, rather than treating anxiety disorders themselves. This makes SNRIs the most appropriate choice for managing generalized anxiety disorder.