Medications have proven effective in eliminating or reducing many of the symptoms of panic disorder and are particularly effective when combined with psychological therapies. For many, drug therapy helps the individual gain control of his or her symptoms. By reducing the severity of symptoms, the individual and specialist are able to progress with nonmedication therapies. Medication taken for panic disorder may be a short-term therapy, or it may be required for a longer period of time.
Unfortunately, there are no drugs that will "cure" symptoms of panic. Some drugs, however, can keep symptoms under control.
Two major classes of medications currently used in the treatment of panic symptoms include:
- Antianxiety Medications (Benzodiazepines)
- Antidepressants (SSRIs)
Antianxiety Medications
Benzodiazepines: Benzodiazepines relieve symptoms quickly for many anxiety sufferers. Some individuals often feel better in the first week and may feel the effect of a benzodiazepine starting on the first day of treatment. The most common side effect is sedation, but in most people this decreases or goes away after their bodies get used to the drug. Until individuals experience how this medicine may affect them, they should not drive a car or operate potentially dangerous machinery, etc. Other common side effects, which occur in fewer patients, include sleepiness, memory impairment, impaired speech, abnormal coordination and/or muscle action, and reduced sexual drive. Some individuals may experience side effects associated with psychological and/or physical dependence as well.
Alcohol should generally not be used during treatment with this medicine. Taking this type of medication is also not recommended for use in pregnancy. Therefore, you should tell your doctor if you are pregnant, if you are planning to become pregnant, or if you become pregnant while you are taking this medicine. You should also let your doctor know if you are nursing.
When therapy with this medicine is stopped, some individuals may experience discontinuation symptoms. As with some other types of medications, your body can develop a physical dependence on benzodiazepines. That is, your body becomes accustomed to the presence of the drug. Abruptly stopping or cutting down on the prescribed dosage can be unpleasant and even dangerous. However, following the prescribing physician's instructions correctly and reducing the dosage gradually can diminish those symptoms.
Benzodiazepines include and
Antidepressants
SSRIs: Some medications that were originally approved for treatment of depression have been found to be effective for panic symptoms. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (such as Zoloft® [Sertraline HCl]) affect the concentration of serotonin—a chemical in the brain thought to be linked to anxiety disorders. These medications are typically started at low dosages and may be increased until they reach a therapeutic level. A common side effect is nausea. Other possible side effects include decreased appetite, dry mouth, sweating, constipation, sexual side effects in men and women, tremor, and sleepiness.
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