Though there are various drugs available, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are frequently the first kind of therapy attempted for persistent symptoms of social anxiety. Your doctor may advise you to take paroxetine (Paxil) or sertraline (Zoloft). These medications work by increasing the amount of serotonin in the brain. This helps reduce feelings of anxiety and depression. Tricyclic antidepressants have been used for treating anxiety disorders for many years. They work by affecting the neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine. These drugs include amitriptyline (Elavil), clomipramine (Clomicalm), desipramine (Norpramin), imipramine (Tofranil), nortriptyline (Pamelor). Some people who suffer from social anxiety disorder also have trouble sleeping. Therefore, their doctors may prescribe them benzodiazepines, such as alprazolam (Xanax) or clonazepam (Klonopin). These drugs can be effective in reducing panic attacks and anxiety but they should not be taken for long periods of time due to the potential for developing dependence. Long-term use can also cause memory problems and dry mouth. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) focuses on changing how you think and act instead of simply treating the symptoms of anxiety.