Question

A patient proudly reports that his son is graduating from medical school in Boston in two weeks, and he is thrilled to attend the graduation, but he suffers from mild flight anxiety. Which of the following medications might the physician prescribe to calm his nerves?

Option 1: Ibuprofen
Option 2: Loratadine
Option 3: Alprazolam
Option 4: Metformin

Answer 1

Alprazolam is the medication that might be prescribed to a patient suffering from mild flight anxiety, as it is a benzodiazepine specifically used for treating short-term symptoms of anxiety.

Step-by-step explanation:

If a patient suffers from mild flight anxiety and is looking for medication to help calm his nerves for a flight to Boston for his son's medical school graduation, the physician might prescribe Alprazolam (Option 3). Alprazolam, popularly known as Xanax, is part of a class of medications called benzodiazepines which are commonly used to treat the short-term symptoms of anxiety. Unlike the other options such as Ibuprofen, an anti-inflammatory, Loratadine, an antihistamine, and Metformin, a diabetes medication, Alprazolam is specifically indicated for anxiety relief. Short-acting benzodiazepines like Alprazolam can be used “as needed” to reduce acute anxiety, and they help manage both the psychological and physical symptoms of anxiety such as trembling and rapid heartbeat.