Alprazolam is fast acting and effective for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and panic disorder, but its short duration of action may contribute to breakthrough symptoms between doses and make withdrawal more difficult.

Propranolol has several uses in psychiatry, including performance anxiety, drug-induced tremor, and akathisia.

Lavender essential oil (Silexan) is a well-tolerated, over-the-counter option for mild to moderate generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), supported by studies showing effect sizes comparable to standard treatments.

Gabapentin used to be considered a nonaddictive medication for anxiety and for alcohol dependence, but we now know it may be misused and diverted for its euphoriant effect.

Diazepam has a long history of use with good efficacy for anxiety. Its long half-life makes it a particularly effective anxiolytic for some patients, and it is a good alternative to chlordiazepoxide for alcohol withdrawal.

Dexmedetomidine is an alpha-2 agonist (think clonidine) that is used at higher doses intravenously (IV) (as Precedex) for ICU sedation.