by A panic attack is a sudden surge of overwhelming fear and anxiety that can last anywhere from several minutes to several hours. It can be a terrifying experience, and it can lead to further anxiety and fear of future attacks. Fortunately, there are a number of medicines available to help treat and manage panic attacks.
Treating Panic Attacks
The most common treatments for panic attacks are psychotherapy and medication. Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy, is a type of counseling that helps people learn about their panic attacks and learn coping skills. Medication is often used to reduce the frequency and intensity of panic attacks.
Medications for Panic Attacks
The most common medications used to treat panic attacks are antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, and beta-blockers. Antidepressants are most commonly used to treat depression, but they can also be used to treat panic attacks. Anti-anxiety medications are designed to reduce anxiety and help people manage panic attacks. Beta-blockers are medications that can help reduce the physical symptoms of a panic attack, such as increased heart rate and sweating.
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are a type of antidepressant that is commonly used to treat panic attacks. SSRIs work by increasing levels of serotonin in the brain, which can help reduce anxiety and improve mood. Common SSRIs include fluoxetine (Prozac), sertraline (Zoloft), paroxetine (Paxil), and escitalopram (Lexapro).
Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs)
Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) are another type of antidepressant that is used to treat panic attacks. SNRIs work by increasing levels of both serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain, which can help reduce anxiety and improve mood. Common SNRIs include venlafaxine (Effexor) and duloxetine (Cymbalta).
Benzodiazepines
Benzodiazepines are a type of anti-anxiety medication that can help reduce the symptoms of a panic attack. Benzodiazepines work by slowing down the central nervous system, which can help reduce the physical symptoms of a panic attack. Common benzodiazepines include alprazolam (Xanax), clonazepam (Klonopin), and lorazepam (Ativan).
Beta-Blockers
Beta-blockers are medications that can help reduce the physical symptoms of a panic attack, such as increased heart rate and sweating. Common beta-blockers include propranolol (Inderal) and atenolol (Tenormin). Beta-blockers are not typically used as a long-term treatment for panic attacks, but they can be used on an as-needed basis to reduce the physical symptoms of a panic attack.
Conclusion
There are a number of medications available to help treat and manage panic attacks. Antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, and beta-blockers are all commonly used to treat panic attacks. It is important to talk to your doctor about the best treatment option for you.
