10 Best Medicine For Anxiety And Depression In Pakistan

Anxiety and depression are two of the most prevalent mental health issues affecting millions of people worldwide, including Pakistan. The country’s rapidly growing population, socioeconomic pressures, and cultural stigma surrounding mental health have contributed to the rising incidence of these conditions.

Overview of Anxiety and Depression in Pakistan

Pakistan faces a substantial burden of mental health disorders, with:

• Approximately 44.8% of the population experiencing anxiety disorders (1)
• Around 34.6% suffering from depressive disorders (1)
• A staggering 70% of cases remain untreated due to social stigma, lack of awareness, and inadequate healthcare resources (2)

Importance of Seeking Medical Help

Mental health issues, if left untreated, can lead to severe consequences, including impaired daily functioning, strained relationships, and increased risk of suicidal behavior. Seeking medical help is the first step towards recovery. Consulting a qualified healthcare professional can provide individuals with:

• Accurate diagnosis
• Effective treatment options
• Ongoing support and guidance

Treatment Options

While therapy and lifestyle changes are essential components of treatment, medications play a vital role in managing anxiety and depression. Various classes of medications are available, including:

• Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)
• Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs)
• Benzodiazepines
• Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs)
• Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs)

What Are The Top 10 Medications For Anxiety And Depression?

What is Anxiety and Depression?

Anxiety and depression are two prevalent mental health disorders that affect millions worldwide, including Pakistan. Understanding these conditions is crucial for timely intervention and effective management.

Anxiety Definition and Symptoms

Anxiety is a mental health disorder characterized by:

• Excessive and persistent worry or fear
• Restlessness, feeling on edge, or irritability
• Difficulty concentrating
• Sleep disturbances
• Rapid heartbeat, sweating, or trembling
• Panic attacks or avoidance behaviors

Types of anxiety disorders include:

• Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
• Panic Disorder
• Social Anxiety Disorder
• Phobias

Depression Definition and Symptoms

Depression is a mood disorder marked by:

• Persistent sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness
• Loss of interest in activities
• Changes in appetite or sleep patterns
• Fatigue or loss of energy
• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
• Physical symptoms like headaches or pain

Types of depressive disorders include:

• Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)
• Dysthymia (Persistent Depressive Disorder)
• Postpartum Depression

Differences Between Anxiety and Depression

While anxiety and depression can co-occur, distinct differences exist:

• Anxiety focuses on fear or worry about the future, whereas depression emphasizes sadness or loss related to the past.
• Anxiety often involves increased energy and restlessness, whereas depression is characterized by decreased energy and motivation.

Is Anxiety a Mental Illness?

Yes, anxiety is classified as a mental illness by:

• World Health Organization (WHO)
• American Psychiatric Association (APA)
• Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5)

Why Medication is Important?

Medication plays a crucial role in managing anxiety and depression, especially when:

• Symptoms are severe or interfere with daily life
• Therapy alone is insufficient
• Other treatments, like lifestyle changes, are ineffective

Medications can:

• Restore chemical imbalances in the brain
• Regulate mood and emotional responses
• Enhance cognitive function and sleep quality
• Reduce symptoms and improve quality of life

Commonly used medications for anxiety and depression include:

• Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)
• Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs)
• Benzodiazepines (for short-term anxiety relief)

Top 10 Medicines for Anxiety and Depression in Pakistan

Amygra 60mg Tablet

Amygra 60mg Tablet

Purchase this medicine online through Doseway.com.

Active Ingredient: Alprazolam

Therapeutic Class: Benzodiazepine

Uses:

• Treats anxiety and depression disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and social anxiety disorder
• Effective in managing panic disorders, including panic attacks
• Improves mental alertness and reduces stress

Dosage & Directions:

• Adult dose: 1-2 tablets (0.5-2 mg) three times a day
• Maximum daily dose: 6-8 mg
• Elderly or debilitated patients: Start with 0.25-0.5 mg three times a day
• Follow your doctor’s instructions for optimal dosage and duration

Side Effects:

Common:

• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Dry mouth

Rare:

• Memory impairment
• Dependence
• Confusion
• Irritability
• Allergic reactions

Precautions:

• Interactions:
  • Antidepressants (e.g., SSRIs, MAOIs)
  • Sedatives (e.g., barbiturates, opioids)
  • Alcohol
• Contraindications:
  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding (potential harm to fetus or baby)
  • Glaucoma (narrow-angle)
  • Severe respiratory depression

Bromalex 3mg

Bromalex 3mg

Purchase this medicine online through Doseway.com.

Active Ingredient: Bromazepam

Therapeutic Class: Benzodiazepine

Uses:

• Treats anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and social anxiety disorder
• Effective in managing panic disorders, including panic attacks
• Relieves insomnia (short-term use)

Dosage & Directions:

• Adult dose: 1-2 tablets (3-6 mg) two to three times a day
• Maximum daily dose: 12-18 mg
• Elderly or debilitated patients: Start with 1/2 to 1 tablet (1.5-3 mg) two to three times a day
• Follow your doctor’s instructions for optimal dosage and duration

Side Effects:

Common:

• Fatigue
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Muscle weakness

Rare:

• Allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling)
• Dependence
• Withdrawal symptoms
• Confusion
• Amnesia

Precautions:

• Interactions:
  • Antidepressants (e.g., SSRIs, MAOIs)
  • Sedatives (e.g., barbiturates, opioids)
  • Alcohol

Cheer Up 10mg

Cheer Up 10mg

Purchase this medicine online through Doseway.com.

Active Ingredient: Fluoxetine

Therapeutic Class: Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI)

Uses:

• Treats major depressive disorder (MDD) with associated anxiety
• Effective in managing:
  • Depressive symptoms (mood swings, loss of interest)
  • Anxiety symptoms (restlessness, worry)
  • Bulimia nervosa
  • Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)

Dosage & Directions:

• Adult dose: 1 tablet (10-20 mg) daily, morning or evening
• Initial dose: 10 mg/day; may increase to 20 mg/day after 1-2 weeks
• Elderly or hepatically impaired patients: Start with 10 mg every other day
• Follow your doctor’s instructions for optimal dosage and duration

Side Effects:

Common:

• Nausea
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Insomnia
• Dry mouth

Rare:

• Serotonin syndrome (potentially life-threatening)
• Suicidal thoughts or behaviors
• Seizures
• Allergic reactions (rash, itching)
• Hyponatremia (low sodium levels)

Precautions:

• Interactions:
  • Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
  • Other antidepressants (e.g., tricyclics, SSRIs)
  • Warfarin (blood thinner)
  • Aspirin or NSAIDs (increased bleeding risk)
• Contraindications:
  • Hypersensitivity to fluoxetine
  • Use within 14 days of MAOI treatment
• Special warnings:
  • Increased risk of suicidal thoughts or behaviors, especially in children and adolescents
  • Monitor for signs of serotonin syndrome (agitation, confusion, rapid heartbeat)

Important Safety Information:

• Use Cheer Up 10mg only as directed by your doctor.
• Do not share or give this medication to others.
• Avoid sudden discontinuation; gradually taper dosage under medical supervision.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding:

• Use during pregnancy only if the benefits outweigh the risks.
• Fluoxetine passes into breast milk; consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

Citanew 10mg Tablet

Citanew 10mg Tablet

Purchase this medicine online through Doseway.com.

Active Ingredient: Escitalopram

Therapeutic Class: Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI)

Uses:

• Treats major depressive disorder (MDD)
• Effective in managing generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
• Relieves symptoms of:
  • Depression (mood swings, loss of interest)
  • Anxiety and depression (restlessness, worry)

Dosage & Directions:

• Adult dose: 1 tablet (10 mg) daily, morning or evening
• Initial dose: 5 mg/day; may increase to 10 mg/day after 1-2 weeks
• Elderly or hepatically impaired patients: Start with 5 mg/day
• Follow your doctor’s instructions for optimal dosage and duration

Side Effects:

Common:

• Nausea
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Insomnia

Rare:

• Serotonin syndrome (potentially life-threatening)
• Allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling)
• Suicidal thoughts or behaviors
• Seizures
• Hyponatremia (low sodium levels)

Precautions:

• Interactions:
  • Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
  • Other antidepressants (e.g., tricyclics, SSRIs)
  • Warfarin (blood thinner)
  • Aspirin or NSAIDs (increased bleeding risk)
• Contraindications:
  • Hypersensitivity to escitalopram
  • Use within 14 days of MAOI treatment
• Special warnings:
  • Increased risk of suicidal thoughts or behaviors, especially in children and adolescents
  • Monitor for signs of serotonin syndrome (agitation, confusion, rapid heartbeat)

Important Safety Information:

• Use Citanew 10mg only as directed by your doctor.
• Do not share or give this medication to others.
• Avoid sudden discontinuation; gradually taper dosage under medical supervision.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding:

• Use during pregnancy only if the benefits outweigh the risks.
• Escitalopram passes into breast milk; consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

Additional Information:

• May take 2-4 weeks to notice the improvement in symptoms.
• Monitor liver function and adjust dosage accordingly.
• Caution in patients with:
  • Seizure history
  • Bipolar disorder
  • Bleeding disorders

Arcalion Tablet

Arcalion Tablet

Purchase this medicine online through Doseway.com.

Active Ingredient: Sulbutiamine

Therapeutic Class: Anxiolytic, Nootropic

Uses:

• Treats mild anxiety and stress-related disorders
• Improves cognitive function and memory
• Enhances mental clarity and focus
• Relieves fatigue and lethargy

Dosage & Directions:

• Adult dose: 1 tablet (500 mg) twice a day
• Initial dose: 1 tablet daily; may increase to 2 tablets/day after 1 week
• Elderly or hepatically impaired patients: Start with 1 tablet daily

Side Effects:

Common:

• Headache
• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Dry mouth

Rare:

• Allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling)
• Insomnia
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal pain

Precautions:

• Interactions:
  • Antidepressants (e.g., SSRIs, MAOIs)
  • Sedatives (e.g., benzodiazepines)
  • Stimulants (e.g., amphetamines)
• Contraindications:
  • Hypersensitivity to sulbutiamine
• Special warnings:
  • Monitor for signs of allergic reactions
  • Caution in patients with a seizure history

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding:

• Use during pregnancy only if the benefits outweigh the risks.
• Sulbutiamine passes into breast milk; consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

Hapibar 30mg Capsules

Hapibar 30mg Capsules

Purchase this medicine online through Doseway.com.

Active Ingredient: Fluvoxamine

Therapeutic Class: Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI)

Uses:

• Treats obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Effective in managing:
  • Anxiety and depression disorders (social anxiety, panic disorder)
  • Depression (major depressive disorder)
• Mood stabilization in anxiety and depression

Dosage & Directions:

• Adult dose: 1-2 capsules (30-60 mg) daily, morning or evening
• Initial dose: 30 mg/day; may increase to 60 mg/day after 1-2 weeks
• Elderly or hepatically impaired patients: Start with 30 mg/day

Side Effects:

Common:

• Nausea
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Insomnia
• Dry mouth

Rare:

• Serotonin syndrome (potentially life-threatening)
• Suicidal thoughts or behaviors
• Allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling)
• Seizures

Precautions:

• Interactions:
  • Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
  • Other antidepressants (e.g., tricyclics, SSRIs)
  • Warfarin (blood thinner)
• Contraindications:
  • Hypersensitivity to fluvoxamine
  • Use within 14 days of MAOI treatment
• Special warnings:
  • Increased risk of suicidal thoughts or behaviors
  • Monitor for signs of serotonin syndrome

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding:

• Use during pregnancy only if the benefits outweigh the risks.
• Fluvoxamine passes into breast milk; consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

Stablon Tablet

Stablon Tablet

Purchase this medicine online through Doseway.com.

Active Ingredient: Tianeptine

Therapeutic Class: Atypical Antidepressant

Uses:

• Treats major depressive disorder (MDD)
• Effective in managing:
  • Depressive symptoms (mood swings, loss of interest)
  • Anxiety symptoms (restlessness, worry)
• Offers fewer side effects compared to traditional antidepressants

Dosage & Directions:

• Adult dose: 1 tablet (12.5 mg) three times a day
• Initial dose: 1 tablet twice a day; may increase to 3 times a day after 1 week
• Elderly or hepatically impaired patients: Start with 1 tablet twice a day

Side Effects:

Common:

• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Dry mouth

Rare:

• Allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling)
• Liver damage (elevated liver enzymes)
• Increased risk of suicidal thoughts or behaviors
• Seizures
• Hypersensitivity reactions

Precautions:

• Interactions:
  • Antidepressants (e.g., SSRIs, MAOIs)
  • Sedatives (e.g., benzodiazepines)
  • Stimulants (e.g., amphetamines)
• Contraindications:
  • Hypersensitivity to tianeptine
  • Severe liver impairment
• Special warnings:
  • Monitor liver function and adjust dosage accordingly
  • Increased risk of suicidal thoughts or behaviors, especially in children and adolescents

Important Safety Information:

• Use Stablon Tablet only as directed by your doctor.
• Do not share or give this medication to others.
• Avoid sudden discontinuation; gradually taper dosage under medical supervision.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding:

• Use during pregnancy only if the benefits outweigh the risks.
• Tianeptine passes into breast milk; consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

Additional Information:

• May take 2-4 weeks to notice an improvement in symptoms.
• Monitor for signs of liver damage (jaundice, dark urine).
• Caution in patients with:
  • Seizure history
  • Bipolar disorder
  • Bleeding disorders

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Right Medication

Effectiveness

1. Fastest-acting medications: SSRIs (e.g., fluoxetine), SNRIs (e.g., venlafaxine)
2. Timeframes for results: 2-6 weeks for noticeable improvement

Side Effects

• Medications with fewer side effects:
  • Fluoxetine (Prozac)
  • Sertraline (Zoloft)
  • Escitalopram (Lexapro)
• Minimizing side effects:
  • Start with low doses
  • Gradually increase dosage
  • Monitor side effects regularly

Safety

• Long-term safety:
  • SSRIs and SNRIs are generally safe
  • Regular monitoring necessary
• Age group considerations:
  • Children and adolescents: closely monitor suicidal thoughts
  • Elderly: risk of falls, interactions with other medications

New Treatments

• Emerging treatments:
  • Ketamine-based therapies
  • Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS)
  • Mindfulness-based therapies
• Recent drug approvals:
  • Brexanolone (Zulresso) for postpartum depression
  • Esketamine (Spravato) for treatment-resistant depression

Natural Alternatives for Anxiety and Depression

Natural Remedies

Natural remedies can complement traditional treatments for anxiety and depression. While not a replacement for medical care, these alternatives offer holistic benefits.

Natural Anxiety Medications and Treatments

• Strongest natural anti-anxiety medications:
  • Ashwagandha (300-500 mg/day)
  • Kava (200-300 mg/day)
  • Valerian root (500-1000 mg/day)
• Other natural anxiety and depression relievers:
  • Passionflower
  • Chamomile
  • Lavender oil

Popular Supplements

• Herbal options:
  • St. John’s Wort (mood enhancement)
  • Ginkgo biloba (cognitive function)
  • Bacopa monnieri (memory and focus)
• Vitamins and minerals:
  • Omega-3 fatty acids
  • Vitamin D
  • Magnesium

Lifestyle Modifications

• Mind-body techniques:
  • Yoga
  • Mindfulness meditation
  • Deep breathing exercises
• Exercise and physical activity:
  • Regular aerobic exercise
  • Strength training
  • Walking and outdoor activities
• Sleep and relaxation:
  • Establish consistent sleep schedule
  • Practice relaxation techniques before bed
• Nutrition and diet:
  • A balanced diet rich in whole foods
  • Avoid processed and sugary foods
  • Stay hydrated

FAQs | Best Medicine For Anxiety And Depression

……………………

Affiliate Disclosure: Commissions we earn from partner links on this page do not influence our content. Our editorial content is based on thorough research and insights from qualified medical professionals to ensure the highest standards of accuracy and reliability.

Medical Disclaimer: Unless expressly indicated in the product description, Doseway is not the manufacturer of the products sold on our website. While we strive to ensure that the product information on our website is accurate, manufacturers may alter their product details. Actual product packaging and materials may contain additional or different information than what is displayed on our website. For any specific product queries, please contact the manufacturer directly.

For medicinal products, the content on our website is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or health condition, nor is it a substitute for advice from medical practitioners, pharmacists, or other licensed healthcare professionals. If you suspect you have a medical problem, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Always read the labels, warnings, and instructions provided with the product before using or consuming it, and do not solely rely on the information presented on our website.