Panic Disorder Medication
Panic disorder medication can help with alleviating or reducing the symptoms of panic attacks. It is not a quick fix or a total cure so you need to have realistic expectations. Medication is not the only treatment option as there are also therapies that have proven to successfully manage or eradicate panic attacks. Therapy will assist with adjusting thought and behavior patterns associated with anxiety. Medication will help deal with the overall problem in several different ways by working to reduce stress and lowering the impact of attack symptoms.
The information contained herein is not intended as a substitute for obtaining your own medical advice. Remember to always seek help and advice from a medical practitioner. The details contained herein about panic disorder medication are meant to act as a guide so that you will better understand the treatment options and the specific types of medications that are available. Everyone’s individual circumstances and problems are different so make sure that you seek appropriate and personalized treatment.
Medications for panic related disorders can be broken into 3 main categories as follows:
Selective Serotonin Re-uptake Inhibitors (SSRI)
SSRI are basically antidepressants that are often prescribed as a treatment for depression. They include medications such as Zoloft, Paxil, and Prozac. They work by affecting chemicals called neurotransmitters which are really just brain nerves that send messages to each other. Neurotransmitters are released by one nerve and then get taken up by other nerves. Nerves that released them will then “re-uptake” the neurotransmitters which do not get taken up by the other nerves. The SSRI’s work by stopping the re-uptake of serotonin – this then permits more serotonin to be free for uptake by other nerves.
Tricyclic Anti-Depressants (TCA)
This class of treatment was available before SSRI became available and were widely used to treat conditions associated with panic disorders. They include medications such as Norpramin, Tofranil, and Anafranil. Despite being effective as an option to treat panic attacks, the usage of TCA’s has been reduced as SSRI’s have generally shown to be more effective and safe. TCA’s are still a viable treatment option for specific people although they need to be carefully reviewed and monitored.
Benzodiazepine
Another medication used to treat panic disorders is known as the benzodiazepine drug group. This group of medications include Ativan, Xanax, Klonopin and Valium. This type of drug has proven to be effective in lowering anxiety levels and associated issues. They may be prescribed more as a one-off solution for direct symptom relief rather than SSRI’s that are likely to be taken on a regular basis.
It is important to remember that nearly all medications have the potential to produce side effects. In most cases these side effects are likely to be very minor although occasionally they can be extremely serious in certain situations or with certain medications. As such, it is vital that you are aware of any risks that might apply to you so make sure that you discuss this with your doctor to ensure that you receive the right treatment for your specific circumstances. Also make sure that you take any medication in the manner prescribed by your doctor.
Also keep in mind that medications are not necessarily an immediate solution. You should expect that it may take at least a few weeks before you notice any significant changes and that you may need to take the medication for a prolonged period of at least a year. Stay in touch with your doctor on a regular basis so that you can monitor and adjust things if needed.
Panic disorder medications are a legitimate treatment option for people looking to cure or alleviate panic attacks. Make an effort to understand the different medications and how they might relate to your circumstances. Think of them as a tool that can help but not necessarily solve your panic related issues.
