Common Types of Medications for Anger Management
For many people, therapy and lifestyle changes can be effective ways to learn to manage their types of anger. Sometimes, they’re not enough. In certain instances, medication might be part of a treatment plan to help control anger-related problems.
It’s important to note that anger isn’t an official diagnosis in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). Thus, no medication has been FDA-approved to treat anger. That said, several drugs are used off-label to treat anger (meaning they’re effective but weren’t developed for or FDA-approved to treat a specific condition).
It’s also worth noting that anger may be a symptom of or the result of a mental health condition, and the type of medication you’re prescribed might depend on that diagnosis.
Antidepressants for anger
The types of antidepressants are typically prescribed for depression and anxiety disorders, but they can also treat anger disorders by regulating mood and reducing intense anger.
Commonly prescribed antidepressants for anger issues
Research shows that selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) might be an effective anger medication for some people. Some commonly prescribed SSRIs for rage or anger include:
Potential side effects of antidepressants for anger issues
There are some known and common side effects of SSRIs, including:
- Indigestion
- Dizziness
- Blurred vision
- Dry mouth
- Constipation
Talk to your doctor if side effects of Zoloft, Prozac, or other SSRIs worsen or start to affect your quality of life.
Anxiety medications for anger
Sometimes your doctor might suggest anti-anxiety medication to help you control your anger. Anti-anxiety medications help keep neurotransmitter levels in the brain stable, which may help you manage angry feelings of anger or rage.
Commonly prescribed anxiety meds for anger issues
Benzodiazepines are a commonly prescribed, fast-acting group of anxiety medication. Some research suggests they can be effective in reducing agitation. Common benzodiazepines include:
- Lorazepam (Ativan)
- Midazolam
Potential side effects of anxiety meds for anger issues
Anxiety medication can cause side effects, including:
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Sedation
- Loss of balance
Mood stabilizers for anger
Mood stabilizers decrease abnormal brain activity that can cause agitation and anger. They can level out mood swings and balance the neurotransmitters involved in mood disturbances.
Commonly prescribed mood stabilizers for anger issues
Common mood stabilizers your doctor may prescribe to treat your uncontrolled anger include:
- Carbamazepine (Tegretol)
- Lithium
- Valproic acid
Potential side effects of mood stabilizers for anger issues
There are some common side effects of mood stabilizers you should be aware of before starting them. They can include:
- Stomach cramps or nausea
- Thirst
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Mild tremors
Antipsychotics for anger
Atypical antipsychotics — newer versions of a drug — might effectively manage extreme agitation and uncontrolled anger in some people. They can be beneficial when anger is related to health conditions, and the type of condition you’re dealing with may dictate what medication your doctor prescribes.
Commonly prescribed antipsychotics for anger issues
Some antipsychotics that might be prescribed to help treat anger include:
- Quetiapine (Seroquel)
- Olanzapine (Zyprexa)
- Risperidone (Risperdal)
Potential side effects of antipsychotics for anger issues
Side effects to be aware of if you take antipsychotic medication for anger include:
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Weight gain
- Sedation
- Blurred vision
- Tremors or stiffness
- Fluid retention
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