The reasons for panic or anxiety attacks are still not clear, although many experts feel that there could be a genetic cause because very often, people related by blood share this disorder. The best help for panic disorder is the combination of behavioral therapy, medication and psychotherapy. Tricyclic antidepressants are considered to be the best panic disorder medication. These drugs are used to treat panic attacks and obsession disorders in addition to anxiety and depression.
Some of the common side-effects of these medications include constipation, dry mouth, blurred vision, postural hypotension, loss of sex drive, tachycardia, weight gain, sensitivity to sunlight, sweating, sedation, irritation, jitteriness, disturbed sleep patterns and unusual energy. Tofranil, Anafranil and Sinequan are some of the common antidepressants prescribed.
Another effective medication for panic disorder is selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs. These are a comparatively newer type of anti-depressants, and they work by assisting the brain to maintain the neurotransmitter serotonin levels, which are found to be low in people suffering from panic disorders, obsessive compulsive disorder and depression. Some of the most common side effects include insomnia, nausea, sexual difficulties, headaches and agitation. Zolosoft, Paxil, and Prozac are common SSRIs.
Benzodiazepines are also considered one of the best medications for panic attack; however these have not shown good results in all cases. These medications can be taken for months or years, or can be taken as a single dose therapy. Decreased mental sharpness, drowsiness, clumsiness, slurred speech, sexual difficulties, less occupational efficiency, agitation, low moods, irritability and increased susceptibility to the effects of alcohol are common side effects.
Beta blockers such as Propranolol and Atenolol are yet another powerful panic disorder medication, and have been helpful in controlling the physical symptoms of panic and anxiety attacks. These are prescribed to control rapid heartbeat, flushing, trembling and shaking. Side effects include decreased mental sharpness, short term memory loss, lightheadedness, decreased heart rate, drowsiness, diarrhea, depression, cold in the extremities, and nightmares.
Buspar is a tranquilizer approved to treat panic disorder, social phobias, mild depression and OCD, and is also considered one of the best medications for panic attacks. Headaches, dizziness and drowsiness can occur for the initial few days.
When using panic disorder medication, it is essential to work in close association with your doctor, and take the prescribed medication in the correct dosage. In case of any conditional or behavioral changes, let your doctor know immediately. Side effects are usually temporary, but it is still important to let your doctor know about them.
Why settle for managing panic attacks when you can cure them? Visit the Linden Center For Anxiety, Panic Attacks, OCD & Phobias
Related Reading
