Drugs to Treat Panic Disorder

by Krissi Maarx

Overview

A anxiety attack from panic disorder can be a debilitating experience, as the severity of an attack may make it feel like a heart attack and add difficulty to everyday activities. Treatment for this disorder may include pharmacotherapy with anti-anxiety and antidepressant medications.
Types

Panic disorder medications include benzodiazepines, such as Xanax; tricyclic antidepressants, such as Effexor; and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, which are also antidepressants, such as Prozac.

Function

Benzodiazepines, which are anti-anxiety medications, are fast-acting and can lessen symptoms of anxiety while reducing frequency of panic attacks. The antidepressants may eliminate attacks and can reduce their severity.
Warning

Benzodiazepines can be addictive, especially for those who have a history of substance abuse. They also can cause depression. Both antidepressants and benzodiazepines may cause symptoms of withdrawal when a person stops taking them.
Efficacy

According to American Family Physician, meta-analyses found that 61 percent of people with panic disorder were free from panic after six to 12 weeks of antidepressant treatment, whereas benzodiazepines have poorer long-term outcomes.
Considerations

Medications are not a stand-alone treatment for mental health conditions, though they can be used long-term if directed by a psychiatrist. Cognitive-behavioral therapy is used with and without medication in the treatment of panic disorder.