The best medications and treatment options for anger management and irritability
Anger is a complex emotion that everyone experiences at some point in their lives. It is often misunderstood and can be frightening when not managed well. For many, anger can feel like an overwhelming force that is difficult to control. This intense emotion can lead to impulsive actions, such as lashing out, saying things you don’t mean or feeling constantly restless and on edge.
Sudden anger can hurt your quality of life. It's normal to feel angry sometimes. But frequent, intense anger may be a sign of an underlying mental health condition. Some people may struggle to control these feelings of anger despite having tried non-medical treatment options, like therapy. In these cases, medication may help manage anger and restore emotional balance and control.
Is anger a mental illness?
According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), anger is not classified as a standalone mental illness. Instead, it is recognized as a common symptom of various mental health conditions. The DSM-5, which serves as the clinical guidebook for diagnosing and treating mental health disorders, does not list anger as a separate disorder.
Anger is one of the four basic human emotions, alongside happiness, sadness and fear. It's a primitive emotion that evolved from our hunter-gatherer ancestors' original survival mechanisms. In modern times, anger can arise from various situations, such as feeling mistreated or witnessing injustice.
Anger is a common symptom of certain mental health disorders, such as:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Bipolar disorder
- Intermittent explosive disorder
- Disruptive mood dysregulation disorder
- Borderline personality disorder (BPD)
- Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
It's important to understand that these conditions can contribute to the development or intensification of anger. By treating the root cause – the underlying mental health condition – anger can often become more manageable.
Learning to identify anger and recognize when feelings of anger arise is a crucial first step in addressing and controlling this emotion. This self-awareness can help people better understand their emotional responses and develop healthier ways to express and manage anger.
The best medications for anger management and their potential side effects
The best medication for anger management depends on the underlying mental health condition causing the anger. There is no one-size-fits-all solution.
Healthcare providers may prescribe medication when talk therapy alone isn't enough. These medications treat the symptoms of the underlying mental health condition, which often includes anger.
No drugs are FDA-approved specifically for anger management. However, certain medications can help control anger by treating its root cause. These can include antidepressants, anxiety medications and mood stabilizers.
These medications can be prescribed for both adolescents and adults. The most effective medication will vary from person to person, based on their specific diagnosis and symptoms.
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are a type of antidepressant. They are often used to treat depression and anxiety. Certain SSRIs, like sertraline (Zoloft), may reduce anger and irritability in as little as two weeks.
SSRIs that may help reduce anger and irritability include:
- Sertraline (Zoloft)
- Citalopram (Celexa)
- Fluoxetine (Prozac)
- Escitalopram (Lexapro)
- Paroxetine (Paxil)
Potential side effects of SSRIs can include:
- Nausea
- Indigestion
- Weight changes
- Dizziness
- Blurred vision
- Dry mouth
- Headaches
- Lowered sex drive
- Difficulty reaching orgasm
Mood stabilizers
Mood stabilizers are a class of medications most commonly used to treat bipolar disorder. They can help reduce and prevent manic episodes. Manic episodes are when a person has a sudden and intense change in their mood that lasts approximately one week. It’s common for people to experience extreme levels of euphoria or anger.
There are three main types of mood stabilizers: Lithium, antipsychotic medications and anticonvulsant medications (used to treat epilepsy). Mood stabilizers may help reduce anger and help people regulate their mood.
Mood stabilizers that may help reduce anger and manic episodes include:
- Lithium (Lithobid)
- Olanzapine (Zyprexa)
- Quetiapine (Seroquel)
- Risperidone (Risperdal)
- Valproate (Depakene)
- Carbamazepine (Tegretol)
- Oxcarbazepine (Trileptal)
- Topiramate (Topamax)
Lithium was once the first-line treatment for bipolar disorder. Its side effects have made it less popular in recent years.
Potential side effects of lithium can include:
- Loss of control of body movements
- Muscle stiffness
- Seizures
- Impaired kidney function
- Liver failure
- Nausea, vomiting and/or diarrhea
- Irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias)
- Lowered sexual drive
Potential side effects of antipsychotic medications can include:
- Drowsiness and/or fatigue
- Dry mouth
- Constipation
- Restlessness
- Sudden muscle contractions
- Weight gain
- Involuntary repetitive movements
- Inflammation of the heart muscle (myocarditis)
- Breast swelling or discharge
- Increased blood sugars/increased risk of diabetes
Potential side effects of anticonvulsant medications can include:
- Tiredness
- Fatigue
- Diarrhea
- Blurred vision
- Memory issues
- Difficulty focusing
- Brain fog
A licensed mental health professional can help you determine the most appropriate medication strategy for your unique situation. They can also walk you through potential side effects and ensure your treatment aligns with your overall mental health goals.
The best non-medical treatment options for anger and irritability
The first-line treatment for many mental health issues is talk therapy (psychotherapy), particularly cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT works by helping people identify and reframe their negative thoughts, which, in turn, can change how they behave and feel. It is considered to be the gold standard for psychotherapy.
Over the past two decades, CBT has emerged as the most effective method for anger management. Studies show that 76% of people who underwent CBT showed improved anger management compared to those without treatment.
Other types of therapy can also play a vital role in treating anger issues and irritability. Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) can help people change unhelpful behaviors. It teaches healthier coping skills, like deep breathing, to better manage emotions and distress. Group therapy can help people process their experiences. It can also build a sense of community.
Taking a comprehensive and holistic approach involving therapy, support and medication, if needed, can be the most effective way to manage anger issues and regain emotional control.
How Sesame can help
If you're struggling with anger management and considering medication as part of your treatment plan, Sesame can connect you with experienced healthcare providers who can help. Book an online mental health consult to discuss your concerns, explore treatment options, and receive personalized care from the comfort of your home.
Providers on Sesame can evaluate your symptoms, answer your questions about anger management medications and prescribe medication when needed. Take the first step towards emotional balance by scheduling a visit with a qualified provider on Sesame today.
