The Best Medicine For Anxiety Disorders SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) and SNRIs like citalopram (Celexa), the escitalopram (Lexapro), fluoxetine (Prozac), duloxetine (Cymbalta) and Venlafaxine (Effexor XR) are considered the first-line treatment for anxiety disorders. Exercise and psychotherapy are important for people with anxiety. Some doctors prescribe antihistamines like hydroxyzine