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Do You Need Panic Attack Medicine?

Over three million Americans suffer from panic attacks or panic disorder. Panic attacks can be caused by hereditary factors, stress, or hypochondriac tendencies. The most effective treatments are cognitive-behavioral therapy and antidepressants. Many people find that a combination of both is the most successful treatment. There are several options for people who want prescription panic attack medicine.

Beta Blockers

Beta blockers are antihypertensive medications used to control the physical symptoms of anxiety, such as rapid heartbeat and shaking. Beta blockers are sometimes used by athletes to enhance performance and musicians to combat stage fright and tremors. Examples of beta blockers are Inderal and Tenormin.

Tricyclic Antidepressants and Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors [MAOI]

These are strong antidepressants used to treat depression and obsessive behaviors. These are usually prescribed for panic attacks in conjunction with other mood disorders. Some examples are Effexor, Elavil and Doxepin. Nardil is a common MAOI.

Benzodiazepines

You know this as Valium, or maybe Xanax. Often prescribed for stress, insomnia or anxiety, these drugs are sometimes used to treat panic disorders. Caution must be taken as sometimes these drugs can cause anxiety as opposed to treating it.

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors [SSRI]

These are the newest and most popular antidepressants on the market today. These work by maintaining levels of serotonin in the brain. While these can be extremely helpful in aiding people with anxiety, they are not effective as a long term solution. Examples are Prozac, Paxil and Zoloft.

Other Forms of Panic Attack Medicine

Some have found relief taking mild tranquilizers or anticonvulsants. Others like to use vitamins and amino acids to help control their anxiety.

There is no one specific drug that works best to help combat panic disorders. Only through consultation with your doctor, and sometimes trial and error, can you find the panic attack medicine that works best for you.

In the end, it may be a long struggle in finding the right panic attack medicine that will treat you to the point where you can begin to lead a normal life again, but the struggle to find the right treatment is certainly worth it. With the millions of people who live with this disorder, it is no secret that panic attacks are definitely legitimate medical concerns that need to be addressed and treated properly. With the help of a physician, finding the treatment that works for you will be easier and a more positive experience due to the support you will receive.