Medication Management

As a BHA/P, you can be a resource to your clients who are taking prescribed medications related to their mental or behavioral health problems.

Medication management requires the BHA/P to:

• Recognize biological, psychological, and social effects of medications.
  • Review your client's chart for a current list of diagnoses and prescribed medications.
  • Use information provided in this chapter or do a quick internet search (e.g., WebMD or National Institute of Mental Health ) to learn more about the type and intended uses of the medications listed.
  • Help your client to identify questions about medications that can be answered by the medical provider.

• Monitor the client, including:
  • Supporting the client in using medications appropriately and as prescribed.
  • Helping the client to self-monitor reactions to medication.
  • Helping the client to report responses accurately to the medical provider who prescribed the medication or who is providing ongoing medical or psychiatric care to the client.
  • Helping the client to cooperate as needed with medical monitoring, including making and keeping appointments for follow-up testing, such as urinalysis and blood tests.
  • Supporting the client's education about the expected course of response to medication and possible side effects.
  • Teaching the client strategies for following a medication regimen (e.g., keeping logs, using pill boxes, and/or working with caregivers to help remember medication).

• Help the client to identify when there is a less than desirable or negative response to medication and refer the client for a follow-up appointment with their medical provider.

• Help the client's family and other support systems to participate in medication monitoring, as appropriate. This includes being aware of potential challenges for your client's access to medication as a result of infrequent mail deliveries (e.g., if the mail comes two days per week, weather permitting).

Medications come in various forms, such as:

• Pills or tablets that can be cut or crushed as needed.
• Capsules with medication in a plastic-like coating.
• Liquids with precise measuring instructions.
• Skin patches.

Some medications come in short-acting, intermediate-acting, long-acting, or extended/sustained-release varieties. In each variety, the active ingredient is the same but is released at different rates once the medication has been taken. "Extended or sustained release" means that the medication is released gradually so that a controlled amount enters the body over a defined period of time. Long-acting and extended-release forms often allow a person to take the medication only once a day, reducing the need to remember a second or third dose. This can also be more convenient for clients and/or caregivers of clients who attend work or school all day.

The prescribing provider will choose which form and variety of medication to prescribe based on patient preference, availability, cost, and other factors. This chapter is arranged according to five major categories of medication used to treat the following categories of behavioral health problems:

• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.
• Bipolar Disorder.
• Depression.
• Psychosis (hallucinations and delusions).
• Anxiety.

The type of medication prescribed to a client should be specific to that person and is based on the person's medical and family history. Medication efficacy, tolerance, and side effects can vary significantly between people and require close monitoring by all caregivers, family members, and mental health providers.

• Something that effectively treats a condition for one person may not work well or at all for another.
• One person may be able to tolerate a medication with no side effects, while another may be extremely sensitive to it.
• Some medications, such as mood stabilizing and antidepressant medications, may improve some symptoms of a condition but not others.
• Even medications that are almost always effective, such as antipsychotics, need to be chosen and monitored carefully due to variations in efficacy, tolerance, and side effects.

It can take a lot of time and patience to find a medication and dose that works well for a person; often, multiple medications have to be tried.

With children and adolescents, providers and caregivers can decide together which medication is working best for the child and whether the child needs it all the time or can take a “break” from it during evenings, weekends, and vacations.

Responsible adults can work with their provider to determine a dosing schedule that best fits their work/school and lifestyle needs.

All of the medications discussed in this chapter require close monitoring by all caregivers or family members and mental health providers.

The following are general guidelines for missed doses of the medications discussed in this chapter. Clients should always follow the instructions of their medical providers and the drug manufacturer regarding missed doses. In general, when a person misses a dose of medication:

• The dose should not be taken if it is almost time for the next dose. Otherwise, it should be taken as soon as the person remembers.
• The person should not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.
• Note: The client or caregiver should call the medical provider for instructions if more than 2 days of medication are missed in a row.

• Confirm that the person is taking the medication as prescribed (not missing doses; taking it at the same time every day; taking the prescribed amount).
• Explain that it can take some time for a new medication to start working.
• Many medications are not as effective if the person has certain foods or drinks at the same time or in the same day. Orange and grapefruit juices reduce the effectiveness of several medications, for example.
• If the medication is wearing off too quickly, the person can speak to the prescribing provider about a higher dose, a change to an extended-release formulation, or a second or third dose during the day. Increasing the dosage should be done slowly.
• Understand that for many conditions, multiple medications are available, but not all medications will work for each person.
• If the client has been taking the medication as prescribed for a few weeks and they have not noticed any improvements in their symptoms, encourage them to consult with their medical provider.

The most common type of medication used for treating ADHD is called a “stimulant.” There are also other “non-stimulant” medications that work differently and can also be helpful for some clients. Even though stimulants increase energy in people without ADHD, stimulants actually have a calming effect on most people with ADHD. A broad range of stimulants and other medications is available.

If ADHD medications are working well, they will reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity and improve the person's ability to concentrate, stay on task, work, and learn. In children, medication also may improve physical coordination.

See Chapter D-: Hyperactivity and Problems with Attention to learn more about ADHD.

ADHD Medications: Amphetamine-Based

Medication Trade Name	Medication Generic Name	Formulation of Medication
Adderall	Amphetamine (Immediate Release/Short Acting)	Tablets
Adderall XR	Amphetamine (Extended Release)	Capsules (can be sprinkled)
Dexedrine and Dextro Stat	Dextroamphetamine (Immediate Release/Short Acting)	Tablets
Dexedrine Spansules	Dextroamphetamine (Sustained Release)	Capsules (should be swallowed whole and not crushed)
Vyvanse	Lisdexamfetamine (Extended Release)	Capsules (can be opened and dissolved)

ADHD Medications: Clonidine-Based

Medication Trade Name	Medication Generic Name	Formulation of Medication
Catapres	Clonidine Hydrochloride	Tablets
Catapres-TTS	Clonidine Transdermal	Patch
Kapvay	Clonidine (Extended Release)	Tablets

ADHD Medications: Methylphenidate-Based

Medication Trade Name	Medication Generic Name	Formulation of Medication
Concerta	Methylphenidate Hydrochloride (Sustained Release)	Capsules (do not split, chew, or crush)
Daytrana	Methylphenidate (Transdermal)	Patch
Focalin	Dexmethylphenidate Hydrochloride	Tablets
Focalin XR	Dexmethylphenidate Hydrochloride (Extended Release)	Capsules (can be sprinkled)
Metadate CD	Methylphenidate Hydrochloride (Extended Release)	Capsules (can be sprinkled)
Metadate ER	Methylphenidate Hydrochloride (Extended Release)	Tablets
Methylin	Methylphenidate (Immediate Release/Short Acting)	Tablets, chewable tablets, oral solution
Methylin ER	Methylphenidate (Extended Release)	Tablets
Ritalin	Methylphenidate (Immediate Release/Short Acting)	Tablets
Ritalin LA	Methylphenidate (Long Acting)	Capsule (can be sprinkled)
Ritalin SR	Methylphenidate (Sustained Release)	Tablets

ADHD Medications: Guanfacine-Based

Medication Trade Name	Medication Generic Name	Formulation of Medication
Intuniv	Guanfacine (Extended Release)	Tablets (should not be crushed, chewed, or broken)
Tenex	Guanfacine	Tablets

What are the typical side effects of stimulant medications?

The most common side effects are a decreased appetite, sleep problems, anxiety, irritability, mild stomachaches, and headaches. Most side effects are not serious and disappear over time or if the dosage of the medication is lowered.

• Decreased appetite. Eating several smaller meals a day instead of three large ones, drinking protein shakes, or eating dinner later in the evening after the medication's effects have worn off are some simple strategies to combat this side effect. Make sure the person eats a large, healthy breakfast before the first dose of medication. If this side effect does not go away, talk to the prescribing mental health provider. If a child stops growing or putting on weight, the caregiver should speak to the mental health provider.
• Sleep problems. If the person has difficulty falling asleep, a lower dose of the medication or a shorter-acting form may be needed. The medication can also be given earlier in the day, or the second dose can be reduced or discontinued. In general, the last dose of the day should be taken at least 6 hours before bedtime. Sometimes, a low dose of an antidepressant or a blood pressure medication can help with sleep. Keeping a strict and consistent sleep routine that includes relaxing elements may also help.
• Less common side effects. A few people will develop sudden, repetitive movements or sounds called tics while on stimulants. These tics may or may not be noticeable. Changing the medication or dosage may make tics go away. Some people may also experience a change in affect, such as appearing emotionless or feeling tense and cranky. Talk with the mental health provider if you see any of these side effects.

Are stimulant medications safe?

Under medical supervision, stimulant medications are considered safe. Stimulants do not make people with ADHD feel high, although some people report feeling slightly different or “funny.” While some people worry that stimulant medications may lead to substance abuse or dependence, there is little evidence of this.

Rare side effects of ADHD medications

Cardiovascular risks of ADHD medications include a slightly higher risk of stroke, heart attack, and/or sudden death when taking the medications. There is also a slightly increased risk for medication-related psychiatric problems, such as hearing or seeing things that others cannot hear or see, becoming overly suspicious for no reason, or having an abnormally elevated or high mood compared to their normal state. These symptoms can occur with clients who have never had psychiatric symptoms before. If they do occur, the patient should be monitored closely and the medical provider should be contacted immediately.

Do medications cure ADHD?

Current medications do not cure ADHD. Rather, they control the symptoms for as long as they are taken.

For adults, ADHD medications can help them better focus on tasks and give back a feeling of control. For children, medications can help them pay attention and complete schoolwork. It is not clear, however, whether medications can help children learn or improve their academic skills. Adding behavioral therapy, counseling, and practical support can help children with ADHD and their families to better cope with everyday problems.

Medication works best when treatment is regularly monitored by the prescribing doctor and the dose is adjusted based on the individual's needs.

Diversion of ADHD medications

Because some types of stimulants are also controlled substances, they can be subject to abuse and diversion. Diversion happens when medications prescribed to one person are given to or taken by someone else. It can be helpful to remind caregivers and clients, especially adolescents, to keep their medication in a safe and secure location. People should always take medication only for the reason prescribed and should never share, give, or sell their medication to anyone else.

The most common type of medication used for treating people with Bipolar Disorder is mood stabilizers. In general, people continue treatment with mood stabilizers for years. Other medications used to treat mood disorders include antipsychotic medications.

Anticonvulsant medications are often used as mood stabilizers, anti-anxiety medications, or to treat headaches. They were originally developed to treat seizures, but they were found to help control moods as well.

See Chapter D-8: Mood Disorders (Depression & Bipolar) to learn more about mood disorders.

Common Anticonvulsant/Mood Stabilization Medications

Medication Trade Name	Medication Generic Name	Formulation of Medication
Depakote/Depakote ER/Depakene	Valproate/Valproic Acid/Divalproex/Divalproex ER	Tablet, capsules, injection, oral syrup
Keppra	Levetiracetam	Tablets, oral solution
Lamictal	Lamotrigine	Tablets, chewable tablets, dissolvable tablets
Lithobid/Lithostat/Eskalith/Eskalith CR	Lithium	Tablets, capsules, liquid
Neurontin	Gabapentin	Tablets, capsules, liquid
Tegretol/Tegretol CR/Tegretol XR	Carbamazepine	Tablets, chewable tablets, capsules (can be sprinkled), liquid
Topamax	Topiramate	Tablets, capsules
Trileptal	Oxcarbamazepine	Tablets, liquid
Zonegran	Zonisamide	Capsules

What are the side effects?

Typical side effects include:

• Changes in weight
• Nausea/vomiting
• Stomach pain
• Loss of appetite

More serious side effects:

• Valproic acid may cause damage to the liver or pancreas, so people taking it should see their doctors regularly.
• Valproic acid may affect young girls and women in unique ways. Sometimes, valproic acid may increase levels of testosterone (a male hormone) in teenage girls and lead to a condition called polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). PCOS is a disease that can affect fertility and make the menstrual cycle become irregular, but symptoms tend to go away after valproic acid is stopped. It also may cause birth defects in women who are pregnant.
• Stevens-Johnson syndrome is a rare, serious disorder in which a person’s skin and mucous membranes (in the mouth and genital area) react severely to a medication. Symptoms include flu-like symptoms and a painful red or purplish rash that spreads and blisters. It may present as a medical emergency that requires hospitalization.
• Some anticonvulsant medications may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors. People taking anticonvulsant medications for Bipolar Disorder or other illnesses should be closely monitored for new or worsening symptoms of depression, suicidal thoughts or behavior, or any unusual changes in mood or behavior. People taking these medications should not make any changes without talking to their health care professional.
• Lithium can cause long-term kidney and thyroid problems.

Are mood stabilizing medications safe?

Under medical supervision, these medications are considered safe. Medical providers need to monitor blood counts, liver enzymes, kidney function, and medication levels and perform other testing depending on the medication used.

Do medications cure mood disorders?

Current medications do not cure mood disorders. Rather, they control the symptoms for as long as they are taken. Medications can help people with mood disorders function better. Most people need to be on the medications for a long time. Medication works best when treatment is regularly monitored by the prescribing doctor and the dose is adjusted based on the person's needs.

Source: National Institute of Mental Health

Depression is commonly treated with antidepressant medications. Antidepressants work to balance some of the natural chemicals in our brains, called neurotransmitters, that affect our mood and emotional responses. Antidepressants work on neurotransmitters such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine.

See Chapter D-8: Mood Disorders (Depression & Bipolar) to learn more about depression.

Antidepressant Medications: Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)

Medication Trade Name	Medication Generic Name	Formulation of Medication
Celexa	Citalopram	Tablets, dissolvable tablets, capsules
Lexapro	Escitalopram	Tablets, capsules, liquid
Luvox/Luvox CR	Fluvoxamine	Tablets, capsules (do not crush or chew)
Paxil/Paxil CR	Paroxetine	Tablets, liquid
Prozac/Prozac Weekly/Sarafem	Fluoxetine	Tablets, capsules, liquid
Zoloft	Sertraline	Tablets, liquid

Antidepressant Medications: Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs)

Medication Trade Name	Medication Generic Name	Formulation of Medication
Cymbalta	Duloxetine	Capsule (do not crush, chew, or sprinkle)
Effexor/Effexor XR	Venlafaxine	Tablets, Capsules

Antidepressant Medications: Tricyclic Antidepressants

Medication Trade Name	Medication Generic Name	Formulation of Medication
Anafranil	Clomipramine	Capsules
Elavil	Amitriptyline	Capsules
Norpramin	Desipramine	Tablets
Sinequan, Silenor	Doxepin	Capsules, Liquid
Tofranil	Imipramine	Tablets, Capsules

Antidepressant Medications: Other

Medication Trade Name	Medication Generic Name	Formulation of Medication
Desyrel	Trazodone	Tablets
Remeron	Mirtazapine	Tablets, dissolvable tablets
Wellbutrin/Wellbutrin SR/ Wellbutrin XR/Zyban	Bupropion	Tablets

What are the different types of antidepressants?

The most popular types of antidepressants are called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Other types of antidepressants are serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). SNRIs are similar to SSRIs and both are popular because they do not cause as many side effects as the older classes of antidepressants.

Older antidepressant medications include tricyclics, tetracyclics, and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs).

Other antidepressants that are commonly used but do not fit into any specific drug category are bupropion (Wellbutrin), Desyrel (Trazodone), and Remeron (Mirtazapine).

For depression, monotherapy (using a single medication) is only effective 60% of the time. All the medications appear to be equally effective on a population level. Medication and counseling generally work better together than either does alone.

What are the typical side effects?

Antidepressants may cause mild side effects that usually do not last long. Any unusual reactions or side effects should be reported to a doctor immediately.

The most common side effects associated with SSRIs and SNRIs include:

• Headache, which usually goes away within a few days.
• Nausea, which usually goes away within a few days.
• Sleeplessness or drowsiness, which may happen during the first few weeks but then gradually resolves. Sometimes the medication dose needs to be reduced or the time of day it is taken needs to be adjusted to help lessen these side effects.
• Agitation (feeling jittery).
• Sexual problems (typically, a reduced sex drive).

Tricyclic antidepressants can cause side effects including:

• Dry mouth.
• Constipation.
• Bladder problems (difficulty emptying the bladder or a weakened urine stream).
• Sexual problems (typically, a reduced sex drive).
• Blurred vision, which usually goes away quickly.
• Drowsiness. Usually, antidepressants that cause drowsiness are taken at bedtime.

Are antidepressant medications safe?

Antidepressants are safe and are widely prescribed, but some studies have suggested that they may have unintentional effects, especially in young people. There is an increased risk of suicidal thinking or attempts in children and adolescents taking antidepressants.

People of all ages taking antidepressants should be watched closely, especially during the first few weeks of treatment. Possible side effects to look for are depression that gets worse, suicidal thinking or behavior, or any unusual changes in behavior such as trouble sleeping, agitation, or withdrawal from normal social situations. Families and caregivers should report any changes to the doctor.

Rare side effects of antidepressants

Rarely, antidepressants can cause a life-threatening illness called “serotonin syndrome.” A person with serotonin syndrome may be agitated, have hallucinations (see or hear things that are not real), have a high temperature, or have unusual blood pressure changes. Serotonin syndrome is usually associated with the older class of antidepressants (MAOIs), but it can happen with the newer antidepressants as well, especially if mixed with the wrong medications.

Do antidepressants cure depression?

Antidepressants do not cure depression. Depending on risk factors, family history, medical history, stressors, and support structure, some clients will be able to stop the medication. Ideally, a course of treatment with antidepressant medication will last up to 12 months in conjunction with therapy. As clients become better able to develop healthy coping skills, they will be better equipped to manage symptoms of depression as the medical provider gradually takes them off of the medication. However, some clients may need to be on medication long term.

Source: National Institute of Mental Health

First-Generation Antipsychotics

Antipsychotic medications are used to treat Schizophrenia, Schizophrenia-related disorders, Bipolar Disorder, and other psychiatric illnesses. Some of these medications have been available since the mid-1950s. They are often called conventional or “typical” antipsychotics.

Second-Generation Antipsychotics

In the 1990s, new antipsychotic medications were developed. These new medications are called second generation or “atypical” antipsychotics. These medications tend to have fewer side effects than first-generation antipsychotics and can be just as effective at treating psychotic symptoms.

See Chapter D-10: Hallucinations and Delusional Thoughts (Psychosis) to learn more about psychosis and Chapter D-8: Mood Disorders (Depression & Bipolar) to learn more about Bipolar Disorder.

Antipsychotic Medications: First-Generation Antipsychotics

Medication Trade Name	Medication Generic Name	Formulation of Medication
Haldol	Haloperidol	Tablet, liquid, injections
Mellaril	Thioridazine	Tablet, liquids
Orap	Pimozide	Tablets
Thorazine	Chlorpromazine	Tablets, capsules, liquids
Trilafon	Perphenazine	Tablet, injections

Antipsychotic Medications: Second-Generation Antipsychotics

Medication Trade Name	Medication Generic Name	Formulation of Medication
Abilify	Aripiprazole	Tablet, dissolvable tablets, liquids
Clozaril	Clozapine	Tablets, dissolvable tablets
Geodon	Ziprasidone	Capsules
Invega/Invega Sustenna	Paliperidone	Tablets (do not cut or chew), injections
Latuda	Lurasidone	Tablets
Risperdal/Risperdal Consta	Risperidone	Tablets, dissolvable tablets, liquids, injections
Seroquel/Seroquel XR	Quetiapine	Tablets
Zyprexa/Zydis/Symbyax	Olanzapine	Tablets, dissolvable tablets

What are the side effects?

Some clients have side effects when they start taking these medications. Most side effects go away after a few days and often can be managed successfully. Side effects of many antipsychotics include:

• Drowsiness.
• Dizziness when changing positions.
• Blurred vision.
• Cardiac rhythm abnormalities.
• Sensitivity to the sun.
• Skin rashes.
• Menstrual problems for girls and women.

Atypical antipsychotic medications can cause major weight gain and changes in metabolism. This may increase the person’s risk of getting diabetes and high cholesterol. The person should have her weight, glucose levels, and lipid levels monitored regularly by a doctor while taking an atypical antipsychotic medication.

Typical antipsychotic medications can cause side effects related to physical movement, such as:

• Rigidity (inability to bend or move).
• Persistent muscle spasms.
• Tremors.
• Restlessness.

There are medications that can be used to help improve these side effects.

Are antipsychotic medications safe?

If taken under appropriate medical supervision, they are effective and safe medications to treat psychotic disorders. There are risks of developing diabetes and cardiac rhythm abnormalities with some of the medications that need to be carefully evaluated prior to starting treatment.

Rare side effects of antipsychotic medications

Long-term use of typical antipsychotic medications may lead to a condition called tardive dyskinesia (TD).

• TD causes uncontrollable muscle movements. The movements commonly happen around the mouth.
• TD can range from mild to severe, and in some people, the problem cannot be cured.
• Sometimes people with TD recover partially or fully after they stop taking the medication.
• The condition happens to fewer individuals who take the new, atypical antipsychotics, but some may still get TD.
• People who might have TD should check with their doctor before stopping their medications. These medications should be gradually tapered off, never stopped suddenly.

Clozaril has the potential to cause bone marrow suppression, so it is used only under careful observation and only in cases that do not respond to other medications.

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome is another rare condition associated with the use of antipsychotic medications. It can cause confusion and mental status changes, fever, muscle rigidity. It can be fatal if not recognized and treated early. Contact a medical provider if these symptoms are present.

Do antipsychotic medications cure psychotic disorders?

These medications help treat and control the symptoms of psychotic disorders but they do not cure the disease. Most clients take these medicines long term.

Source: National Institute of Mental Health

Antidepressants, benzodiazepines (anti-anxiety medications), and buspirone are the most common medications used for anxiety disorders.

See Chapter D-9: Anxiety and Worry to learn more about anxiety.

Antidepressants were developed to treat depression, but they also help people with anxiety disorders. SSRIs are commonly prescribed for Panic Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and Social Phobia. The SNRI Venlafaxine (Effexor) is commonly used to treat Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD). When treating anxiety disorders, antidepressants generally are started at low doses and increased over time.

Some tricyclic antidepressants work well for anxiety. Tricyclics are also started at low doses and increased over time.

Benzodiazepines (anti-anxiety medications) can start working more quickly than antidepressants. However, they are controlled substances and have higher dependency and abuse potential.

Buspirone (Buspar) is an anti-anxiety medication used to treat GAD. Unlike benzodiazepines, however, it takes at least two weeks for buspirone to begin working.

Other medications frequently used include the anticonvulsant Neurontin (Gabapentin), beta-blockers (a type of antihypertensive medication that can help control panic attack symptoms) such as Inderal (Propranolol) and Tenormin (Atenolol), and Vistaril (Hydroxyzine), which is a type of antihistamine.

Anti-Anxiety Medications: Benzodiazepines

Medication Trade Name	Medication Generic Name	Formulation of Medication
Ativan	Lorazepam	Tablets, liquids, injections
Klonopin	Clonazepam	Tablets, dissolvable tablets
Xanax	Alprazolam	Tablets
Valium	Diazepam	Tablets, liquids, injections

Anti-Anxiety Medications: Other

Medication Trade Name	Medication Generic Name	Formulation of Medication
Buspar	Buspirone	Tablets
Inderal/Inderal LA	Propranolol	Tablets, capsules, liquid
Tenormin	Atenolol	Tablets
Vistaril	Hydroxyzine	Tablets, capsules, liquid

What are the side effects?

Antidepressants may cause mild side effects that usually do not last long. Any unusual reactions or side effects should be reported to a doctor immediately.

The most common side effects for benzodiazepines are drowsiness and dizziness. Other possible side effects include:

• Upset stomach.
• Blurred vision.
• Headache.
• Confusion.
• Grogginess.
• Nightmares.
• Withdrawal reactions if stopped abruptly.

Possible side effects from buspirone (Buspar) include:

• Dizziness.
• Headaches.
• Nausea.
• Nervousness.
• Light-headedness.
• Excitement.
• Trouble sleeping.

Are medications used to treat anxiety disorders safe?

Antidepressants are generally safe, but some studies have suggested that they may have unintentional effects.

Rare side effects of anti-anxiety medications

Rarely, antidepressants can cause a life-threatening illness called “ serotonin syndrome.

Benzodiazepine medications are subject to dependency, abuse, and diversion. These medications should be kept in a safe and secure location to avoid accidental ingestion by young children and potential theft. If taken in large amounts, patients can stop breathing, and both adolescents and adults should be warned that consuming any alcohol while taking the medication could be deadly. There are also withdrawal reactions similar to alcohol withdrawal if they are taken chronically and stopped abruptly.

Do anti-anxiety medications cure anxiety?

These medications help control symptoms and, when paired with behavioral therapies, may be stopped eventually. They do not cure the disorder but instead help individuals cope with the symptoms.

Source: National Institute of Mental Health