Many panic attack sufferers choose to maintain a pharmacologic therapy that can help
maintain their panic symptoms under control. It is important to note that before taking any of
these medications, a doctor’s advice and prescription must be done first. You must be screened
for allergies to these medications in order to avoid side effects. There may also be important diet
and lifestyle advice to be given before you embark on this medication regimen.
Strong medication compliance to this regimen is important in order to alleviate the
symptoms of a panic attack. Be careful with following the medication schedule and avoid
missing a dose. There can be harsh medication withdrawal symptoms associated with abruptly
discontinuing these medications. If you are pregnant or lactating, make sure to consult your
doctor because these medications for panic attacks may potentially harm the fetus or the
lactating infant. It is important to remember then that these medications will only treat the
symptoms but will not cure the panic attack phenomenon once and for all. Other therapies and
lifestyle modifications should be done in order to help cure panic attacks and panic disorder.
The medications that are typically prescribed for panic attacks include the anti anxiety or
anxiolytic medications. In other instances, antidepressant drugs are also given to alleviate this
condition. Here are some specific examples of medications that will probably be prescribed for
panic attack sufferers.
Selective serotonin reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) -
- This medication that is typically used for
the treatment of depression is also a first line medication against panic disorder. Serotonin is a
neuro hormone in the body that is associated with the lifting of mood and feelings of happiness.
Examples: Zoloft, Prozac, Paxil
Serotonin and Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs) - Just like SSRI’s the SNRI,
another type of antidepressant drug helps in increasing serotonin in the body. However, it also
has an additional effect on the increase of the body’s norepinephrine, a hormone that has the
capacity to help in alleviating the associated symptoms of panic episodes.
Example: Effexor XR
Benzodiazepines - The symptoms of panic attack could also be managed through the use of a
group of mild anxiolytic or anxiety fighting medication called benzodiazepine. These medications
are mild nervous system depressants or downers that help bring down the body manifestations
that relate to adrenaline response. In benzodiazepine therapy, it is important to follow the
doctor’s recommendation about this drug therapy in the proper way because it can be a habit
forming drug.
Examples: Ativan, Klonopin, Xanax
Short version: Medication therapy against panic attack anxiety fighting drugs and anti depressants such as SSRI, SNRI and Benzodiazepines.
Tags: panic attack medication, panic attack drugs, panic attack pharmacotherapy