subject: Advantages And Disadvantages Of Medications For Panic Attacks [print this page] Advantages And Disadvantages Of Medications For Panic Attacks
The two main classes of medications that are prescribed by doctors for the treatment of panic attacks are antidepressants and benzodiazepines. Both these medications are very effective in controlling the symptoms of panic attacks. Antidepressants that are used for the treatment of panic attacks are called as Tricyclic antidepressants. Most of the Tricyclic antidepressants that are available in the market are in the form of tablets or capsules.
These Tricyclic antidepressants affect the neurotransmitters, which are the chemicals found in the brain. Common Tricyclic antidepressants that are used for the treatment of panic attacks are Clomipramine, Desipramine, and Imipramine. Most Tricyclic antidepressants need to be taken under medical supervision only. Another most important aspect of this medication is the dosage. You need to take not more not less, just the right amount of this medication. Overdoses can lead to the addiction of these medications along with severe side effects.
If the severity of the panic attacks is more, the doctors may prescribe a combination of panic attack medications. When the doctor gives you a combination of panic attack medications, you need to take a lot of care while consuming those medications. Following are the most common side effects of Tricyclic antidepressants:
Heart palpitations
Blurred vision
Abnormally fast heart rate, which is also called as tachycardia
Changes in blood pressure
Dry mouth
Drowsiness
Headache
Weight gain
Stomach upset and constipation
Loss of appetite
Loss of sexual desire
When a doctor prescribes Tricyclic antidepressants, he or she will first start with low doses and then gradually increase the doses. Some Tricyclic antidepressants may trigger allergic reactions; hence, if you find any abnormal effects on the body, then you need to tell your doctor immediately. Using Tricyclic antidepressants is not the only way to treat an anxiety attack or panic attack. The other best method is by the use of benzodiazepines. These medications are prescription drugs and like Tricyclic antidepressants they also have to be taken under medical supervision only.
Benzodiazepines affect gamma-aminobutyric acid or GABA, which is a neurotransmitter present in the brain. Common benzodiazepines that are prescribed by doctors are Valium (diazepam), Klonopin (Clonazepam), Xanax (Alprazolam), Ativan (Lorazepam), Dalmane (Flurazepam), Restoril (Temazepam), Tranxene (Clorazepate), Serax (Oxazepam), and Librium (Chlordiazepoxide).
Most of the above mentioned benzodiazepines may interact with several over-the-counter medications. Therefore, before you take any other medication for some other illness; make sure to inform your doctor immediately.
Some of the benzodiazepines may not suit your body type and may cause more pain than the panic attacks itself. So, if the benzodiazepine that has been prescribed for you causes more discomfort, you need to inform your doctor immediately. Common side effects of benzodiazepines are confusion, memory loss, dizziness, lightheadedness, stumbling, and behavioral changes. Because the dizziness caused by benzodiazepines, you may have to refrain from certain important activities such as driving or riding. There are many incidences where a person has landed onto the hospital bed while driving under the influence of benzodiazepines.
If you have a chronic problem of panic attacks, then you need the best medication. Panic attacks can also be controlled with out medications, but that will take a very long time. You will be given all the information about the treatment options by the doctor. When you visit the doctor to treat a panic attack, you need to clear all your doubts about the treatment options. One thing that you need to know is that even with the best medication, panic attacks cannot be cured completely.
Sometimes, the doctors don't have the time to sit and explain you all the details. In such cases, the doctors may give you books or reference links, which you can explore after you have come out of the doctor's clinic. Alternatively, you can do some research work before you go for the treatment of panic attacks. The best place to do the research work for treatments of panic attacks is the Internet. Beware of dubious websites that make unreasonable claims that they can cure anxiety or panic disorders.
Some websites are offering herbal remedies for the treatment of panic attacks. If you want to try out these herbal remedies along with Tricyclic antidepressants or benzodiazepines, then you have to consult your doctor. Often, along with the medications for panic attacks, the doctors recommend cognitive behavioral therapies.
Article by Beth Kaminski of AnxietyDisorderCure.com, a website with the best cure anxiety and adhd herbal treatment information on the web.
