There are several twenty-first century drugs available to treat Panic Disorder. While they provide short term relief, they don’t treat the root of the disorder. Many of these drugs have side effects, making them unsuitable for various types of people. This article gives a brief description on drugs that are designed to help.
Benzodiazepines – Referred to as Valium or Diazepam. Benzodiazepines are known as sedatives, and can hold back the body’s cognitive functions for awhile. Those who are driving shouldn’t use them because it can cause poor judgment while on the road. Do not drink alcohol while on Benzodiazepines. There is a risk of injury as this drug can cause light-headedness and loss of coordination and reflexes. For this reason, Benzodiazepines are used short term. The use of CBT or Cognitive Behavioral Therapy will help to minimize the length of time these are used.
SSRI – the acronym stands for Serotonin-Specific Reuptake Iinhibitor but most people know these drugs as anti-depressants. They include Dapoxetine, Citalopram, Fluoxetine, Fscitalopram, Paroxetine, Fluvoxamine and Sertraline. All SSRIs have side effects, some of them severe and long term. SSRIs are also unsuitable for treating pregnant women or women who may become pregnant, as they can pass through the placenta and affect a developing fetus. Hemophilia sufferers and those already in high risk groups for cardiac problems should also avoid taking SSRIs. SSRIs do not treat the cause of Panic Disorder; they only help in suppressing the symptoms.
Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCA’s) – These are potent anti-depressants that can help with Panic Disorder, but are not for long term use. They have a lengthy list of side effects, but they don’t penetrate the Placenta, so they can be used short term for pregnant women. Alcohol may make them virulent. TCA’s are recognized for disturbing withdrawal symptoms. They are similar to SSRI’s, in that they don’t treat the root of the problem. CBT should be implemented.
Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) – These drugs are commanding, so they are not utilized until all others have failed. These drugs inhibit the ability to digest several foods, so it can create other issues. The withdrawal symptoms can be extremely harsh, and interact with several other drugs as well as alcohol. Like other suppressants, the MAOI’s don’t address the true cause but maintain symptoms. CBT will be needed to help reduce the time that patients spend on MAOI’s, so they can be weaned from them quickly.
As with any medical or psychological medical needs, it is best to discuss your symptoms with your family physician. Those who feel as though they are being hunted by a phobia, especially panic disorder with no specific reasoning, should get their doctor’s advice before undergoing any treatment. Your doctor can refer you to a specialist that is licensed in your area of need.
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