Benzodiazepines are the most common class of anti-anxiety drugs. They include:

Xanax (alprazolam)
Klonopin (clonazepam)
Valium (diazepam)
Ativan (lorazepam)

Benzodiazepines are fast acting—typically bringing relief within thirty minutes to an hour. Because they work quickly, benzodiazepines are very effective when taken during a panic attack or another overwhelming anxiety episode. But despite their potent anti-anxiety effects, they have their drawbacks.

Side effects of anti-anxiety drugs
Anti-anxiety drugs like benzodiazepines work by reducing brain activity. Understandably, this leads to side effects beyond anxiety relief.

The higher the dose, the more pronounced these side effects typically are. But some people feel sleepy, foggy, and uncoordinated even on low doses of benzodiazepines, which can cause problems with work, school, or everyday activities such as driving. Some even feel a medication hangover the next day.

Because benzodiazepines are metabolized slowly, the medication can build up in the body when used over longer periods of time. The result is oversedation. People who are oversedated may look like they’re drunk.

Common side-effects of benzodiazepines or tranquilizers
Drowsiness, lack of energy
Clumsiness, slow reflexes
Slurred speech
Confusion and disorientation
Depression
Dizziness, lightheadedness
Impaired thinking and judgement
Memory loss, forgetfulness
Nausea, stomach upset
Blurred or double vision