There are many types of prescription medicines available for those who suffer from panic attacks. The greatest benefit they can give is to enhance the patient’s motivation and accelerate progress toward facing panic and the repercussions that go along with it.

Several types of antidepressants are used to treat panic attacks. These are often effective and can elevate the mood of the person. However there are some disadvantages when using them. They can take a while to kick in and some patients have reported a significant weight gain. Patients with glaucoma or heart problems may not be able to take some kinds of antidepressants safely. Some side effects include dry mouth, blurred vision and irregular sleep patterns. It is important not to get discouraged and stop taking these medications before they have a chance to work.

A newer type of antidepressant medication was introduced in the 1980s beginning with Prozac. The main function of this drug is to assist the brain in maintaining an adequate supply of serotonin. This neurotransmitter regulates a person’s mood and overall well being. Researchers have linked low levels of serotonin with panic attacks. Prozac, along with other similar drugs like Zoloft and Paxil can be categorized as Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs). These are usually well tolerated medications with no withdrawal symptoms unless patients stop taking them abruptly.

Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) are another group of antidepressants which can elevate a patient’s confidence and are not addictive. Patients taking these will have to put up with several dietary restrictions. Doctors will try to leave these as a last resort.

Benzodiazepines, such as Alprazolam (Xanax ) and diazepam (Valium), are sometimes used to treat recurrent panic attacks. Side effects are few, but some patients feel drowsy. Unfortunately, your body develops a tolerance to benzodiazepines, which means you must continually increase the dosage to achieve the same effect. Benzodiazepines are also addictive. If you’ve had a history of drug abuse, stay away from benzodiazepines.

Beta blockers can be helpful in controlling the physical symptoms of panic attacks particularly rapid heartbeat, shaking, trembling and blushing. These are safe for most patients and are not addictive. They can be especially useful before giving a speech or entering a situation that could cause an attack. Like all medications they do have side effects but fortunately there are not many of them. These can include short-term memory loss, insomnia and a diminished heart rate.

Foods that are high in vitamins B and C will increase the strength of your nervous system, and will give you the ability to think clearly in situations that may normally cause you to be anxious. You may even find that as you are making deliberate changes to your diet in order to improve your health, you will have the confidence that you need to handle the stress in your life with more ease.

One of the most frightening ailments that you can suffer from is a panic attack. You will feel completely out of control, both psychologically and physically. Find the information you need to know about panic attack medication and other treatment options at Help for Panic Attacks.

Tags: Mental Health

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