What are Anxiolytic Drugs? Anxiolytics Side Effects - Murray

Anxiolytics are a safe and non–invasive medication used to ease stress or panic during dental procedures. Anxiolytics are commonly used to treat anxiety; some people may take them daily. However, anxiolytics can also be taken as a single dose before dental procedures to ease nervousness and put a patient in a calm, relaxed state of mind. Most anxiolytic medications prescribed for oral procedures are benzodiazepines such as Valium (diazepam), Ativan (lorazepam), or Klonopin (clonazepam).

Anxiolytic Medications for Dental Procedures

Procedures such as root canals or other surgeries are often more anxiety–inducing than a regular dental checkup. Giving a single dose of an anxiolytic medication before treatment is one of the easiest and most popular sedation options. This option is typically selected for patients coming in for a shorter visit, such as a cavity filling. However, it can also help ease restlessness for those undergoing a longer procedure. Aside from treating anxiety, anxiolytic medications can also be helpful for patients with an especially sensitive gag reflex.

What to Expect From Anxiolytic Sedation

For a patient undergoing anxiolytic sedation, we typically prescribe a single dose of a medication to be taken approximately one hour before their appointment. Some medications act quickly, so patients may be instructed to wait to take the medication until they arrive at the office.

Patients taking an anxiolytic drug will need to be driven to and from their dental appointment. We also recommend that patients enlist a friend or family member to stay with them for up to four hours at home due to the temporary anxiolytics side effects.

A patient can expect to feel drowsy or relaxed during their appointment after taking an anxiolytic medication. The light sedative effects of the medicine should ease any stress the patient is feeling and make the visit more comfortable overall. Anxiolytics may cause sleepiness, but patients can expect to be fully responsive and conscious during the procedure. Anxiolytics' side effects like tiredness will wear off within several hours after the appointment.

Is Anxiolytic Sedation Right for Me?

As dental sedation specialists, we offer various sedation options for patients who struggle with anxiety during dental appointments. Anxiolytic medications are a safe and appropriate way to provide mild sedation to patients experiencing anxiety during their visits. Still, they're not the best method for everyone. Anxiolytics side effects may differ between patients, so Greater Endodontics offers several different methods of sedation that may be better suited for:

At Greater Endodontics, we understand that the needs of every patient are unique. We work closely with each patient to determine the best route of sedation. If you are interested in treatment options to make your appointments more comfortable, we will work with you to determine if an anxiolytic medication is right for you.