Can I take anti-anxiety medication before finals or is it something you have to take regularly?

The answer depends on the type of anti-anxiety medication. Most anti-anxiety medications fall into one of two classes: tranquilizers or antidepressants.

Tranquilizers, also known as benzodiazepines, are taken on an "as needed basis" for periodic episodes of anxiety. Examples of tranquilizers include Xanax, Klonopin and Valium. While they do work well for decreasing anxiety, they are also sedating, habit forming and can have an amnesic effect, thereby impairing your ability to form new memories while they are in your system. Therefore, while you might feel calm during your final exam after taking a tranquilizer, your performance on the test may suffer.

The other type of anti-anxiety medication is actually an antidepressant class called SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors), such as Zoloft, Lexapro and Paxil. These medications have some distinct advantages over tranquilizers: They prevent anxiety from occurring, but are usually not sedating and don't impair your memory. However, these medications must be taken everyday for at least two weeks before they're effective, and they should be continued for at least six months to prevent your anxiety from returning prematurely. Individuals usually tolerate these medications well, but they can frequently cause sexual side effects, a major drawback for many women. Additionally, if SSRIs are taken irregularly, or on an "as needed basis," they can actually intensify anxiety.

As with any potential treatment, it's important to weigh the benefits as well as the risks. Some anxiety is normal and actually helpful prior to an exam because it provides motivation and a heightened level of alertness that allows you to recall and retain information.

But when anxiety becomes excessive, individuals can become preoccupied by worry and/or the physical manifestations of anxiety, such as nausea, shakiness and dizziness. Anxiety at this magnitude impairs performance and warrants treatment. If you feel that your anxiety is excessive and or very frequent, it would be wise to consult with a psychiatrist.