What is the first-line medication for generalized anxiety disorder?

The first-line medication for generalized anxiety disorder is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). SSRIs are effective in treating anxiety disorders because they work by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain, which helps regulate mood and anxiety. This mechanism can lead to a significant reduction in anxiety symptoms over time.

SSRIs are favored due to their favorable side-effect profile compared to older classes of antidepressants and anxiolytics. They are generally well-tolerated, and their long-term use is supported by robust clinical evidence. This makes them a preferred choice in managing generalized anxiety disorder, as they help address both the symptom relief and the underlying neurobiological mechanisms associated with anxiety.

In contrast, benzodiazepines, while effective for short-term relief of anxiety symptoms, carry a risk of dependence and are not recommended for long-term treatment. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors and tricyclic antidepressants are also effective but are less commonly used as first-line treatments due to their side effects and dietary restrictions (in the case of MAOIs) and require more careful monitoring. Therefore, SSRIs are recognized as the safest and most effective first-line pharmacological intervention for individuals with generalized anxiety disorder.