Which agent is known for providing immediate relief from anxiety symptoms?

The agent known for providing immediate relief from anxiety symptoms is lorazepam. This medication belongs to a class of drugs called benzodiazepines, which are commonly prescribed for the short-term management of anxiety and panic disorders. Benzodiazepines work by enhancing the effect of the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain, leading to a calming effect that can quickly alleviate symptoms of anxiety.

In contrast, the other options listed—buspirone, escitalopram, and sertraline—are not intended for immediate relief. Buspirone is an anxiolytic that is effective but has a delayed onset, often taking weeks to provide significant relief. Escitalopram and sertraline are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) typically used for chronic anxiety management and depression, but they also take several weeks to achieve therapeutic effects. Therefore, lorazepam stands out as the most suitable choice for immediate anxiety relief due to its rapid action.