“Are antidepressants effective for panic attacks?”
I have panic attacks. Are antidepressants effective for panic attacks?
2 Answers
PsychiatristPsychiatrist
Hello,Thank you for your question! Yes, antidepressants can help with panic attacks!Treating panic disorder with medication is often recommended when symptoms persist despite efforts to control them through therapy and self-help strategies. Medication may also be suggested when panic disorder has become so extreme that it affects daily functioning. Medical professionals typically prescribe an antidepressant for panic disorder, usually from the class of antidepressants known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs. These drugs can relieve feelings of anxiety and reduce depression symptoms, which often coexist with panic disorder. Benzodiazepine tranquilizers are another class of drugs that can ease anxiety and alleviate panic. There is some potential for abuse with these medications. They may also lead to physical dependence if they are taken over a long enough period of time. It can take a varied amount of time for panic disorder to go away, however a treatment period lasting at least 6 to 9 months is usually recommended. Some people taking medicine for panic disorder are able to stop treatment after only a short time. What works for one person may not be effective at all for another. But even though there is not a magic bullet to wipe out every case, through treatment, patience, and persistence, you can find the methods that help you cope with panic disorder. I hope this information has been helpful! Best, Jenna Torres, PsyD LifeStance Health
Namaste, Sorry to hear that you are suffering from Panic Attacks. I am not a psychiatrist so am not able to advise you regarding Antidepressants. For effectiveness of antidepressants you need to contact your Primary Care Physician or consult with a Psychiatrist. You can also consult a Licensed Psychologist who can refer you to a psychiatrist they know in your area. You may want to read "Anxiety and Phobia Workbook" by Edumund J. Bourne. Also engaging in Guided meditation will help mange your anxieties and panic attacks. There are many available free on YouTube. In case you are in FL you can contact me through my web site www.DrSonpal.com Take care and stay safe. Dr. Lata Sonpal In a message dated 11/26/2023 8:59:52 AM Eastern Standard Time, answers+1537713_130832_1bb761800b1d45995d6631543f060fd3@expert.findatopdoc.com writes: | You have a new patient question! All you have to do is reply to this email to answer. All questions and answers are for informational purposes only. | | | | | | | | | Someone has asked you a question | | Click here to view this request online | | | | | | | | Dr. Sonpal | | Question Alert | | You Have A New Question | | Simply reply to this email with your answer. | | | | | | | | | Are antidepressants effective for panic attacks? | | | | | I have panic attacks. Are antidepressants effective for panic attacks? | | | | | | | | | | Reply to this email to answer, or Login to see all questions. | | | | | | | | IT IS SAFE TO PARTICIPATE. Answering this question does not constitute medical advice or establish a doctor-patient relationship. All questions and answers are for informational purpose only. All question submitters are advised to seek the care of their local medical provider. | | | | | | Find A Top Doc, 1350 Ave of the Americas, New York, NY 10019, United States Of America, (866) 664-DOCS Unsubscribe Manage preferences | |