Which of the following drug classes would typically be used to manage anxiety disorders?

The option that focuses on managing anxiety disorders is a drug class specifically designed for that purpose. Antianxiety medications, also known as anxiolytics, are intended to relieve symptoms of anxiety. They work by enhancing the effect of neurotransmitters in the brain that promote relaxation and reduce feelings of fear and apprehension. Common examples include benzodiazepines and buspirone, which provide rapid relief from acute anxiety and can be part of a comprehensive treatment plan for patients experiencing anxiety disorders.

In contrast, while antidepressants can also be prescribed for anxiety as a second-line treatment, their primary purpose is to treat depression. Antihypertensives are primarily used to manage high blood pressure, and anti-inflammatory medications are focused on reducing inflammation and pain, neither of which directly addresses anxiety disorders. Thus, the antianxiety class is considered the most directly effective for managing anxiety.