subject: Does Medication Work in Treating Panic Attacks? [print this page] Author: Alex J Schneider Author: Alex J Schneider
A person suffering from a panic disorder usually experiences panic attacks. These sudden and unexpected episodes of panic attacks are generally stressful and uncomfortable for the individuals affected. Thus, individuals suffering from panic attacks would want to take advantage of any help to treat their condition. Individuals may resort to getting therapies or taking panic attack medication. It is advisable that a person with a panic disorder take advantage of these two interventions. In addition, potential relapses of future attacks can even be prevented by taking medications and undergoing therapies. Combining these two interventions would also be a big advantage in rehabilitation programs. In controlling the symptoms of panic attacks and in treating panic disorders, various types of medications may be used. Using medications is linked to fewer, less frequent, shorter and less intense panic attacks. An individual may also overcome or control his or her anxiety over the possible recurrence of panic attacks through taking medications. Several therapy medications now available in the market have been proven to be effective namely, Praxil, Zoloft and Prozac. The scientific classification used to refer to these medications is selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors or SSRI. The antidepressant functions of SSRI have been widely recognized. Messages are transmitted between nerves in the brain through neurotransmitters. When a person takes this medication, the chemicals in the medication affect the process of transmitting neural messages. Nerves absorb any neurotransmitters that have been released by other nerves in the brain. The releasing nerves also implement a reuptake of the neurotransmitters that have not been absorbed by any other nerve. Anafranil, Tofranil, Norpramin and other tri-cyclic antidepressants or TCA have been used to treat panic disorders before the discovery and circulation of SSRI. SSRI and TCA are both effective although individuals tolerance threshold of these two types of medications may vary. Studies also support that between the two types, SSRI is safer. Thus, more individuals prefer taking SSRI than TCA. However, whether it is for TCA or for SSRI, it is important that such medications be taken under the monitoring and regulation of a physician. Nevertheless, side effects are evident among all medications. All medications have side effects which can be dangerous. Taking these medications without consulting a physician is highly discouraged. Pregnant women are also prohibited to take these medications because of their potential harmful effects to the baby. Individuals with panic disorders may also take some of the drugs under the benzodiazepine classification approved by the Food and Drug Administration or FDA. Individuals suffering from panic attacks can take Valium, Ativan, Xanax and others. Individuals who take these drugs are reported to feel less anxious and tensed. Daily intake is applicable for SSRI but benzodiazepine drugs must be taken only when the symptoms arise. If an individual has been taking medications for 6 to 8 weeks, a significant improvement in his or her level of anxiety and tension is to be expected. Otherwise, the doctor may resort to increasing the dosage prescribed. Additional drugs may also be recommended. A minimum one year of medication intake is recommended but may be extended if a relapse occurs. An improvement in the condition may also be an indication that the dosage may already be gradually decreased.About the Author:
