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Antianxiety Medicines for Tension Headaches

Topic Overview

If your tension headaches are triggered by anxiety, you may be treated with an antianxiety medicine, such as buspirone (BuSpar), to reduce anxiety and the frequency of tension headaches.

Antianxiety medicines relieve anxiety and nervousness and have a calming effect. In high doses, they may cause drowsiness and sleep. Buspirone reduces mild anxiety, irritability, fatigue, and pain. It is usually taken daily to relieve symptoms and is not addictive if it is used continuously.

Generally, side effects are mild and include:

  • Drowsiness.
  • Low blood pressure.
  • A general lack of interest in things (apathy).
  • Dizziness.
  • Forgetfulness.

Antianxiety medicines other than buspirone (such as alprazolam) may be tried, but they can become addictive. Buspirone is not habit-forming and may be used for longer periods of time.

Related Information

Credits

By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Colin Chalk, MD, CM, FRCPC - Neurology
Last Revised July 7, 2011

Last Revised: July 7, 2011

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine & Colin Chalk, MD, CM, FRCPC - Neurology

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