If you have been having panic attacks pretty often, it may be a good idea to talk to your doctor about panic attack medication that may work well for you. And, even if you don’t want to take prescription medications, there are several natural remedies that you can explore as well.

Antidepressants are the main panic attack medication prescriptions that your doctor may discuss with you. These medications are also used for those who suffer from severe depression, so you may find that your mood will be boosted after you are taking the medicine for a while. However, it may take several weeks for the medicine to reduce your panic attacks, so you will have to incorporate other treatments in order to get relief quicker. Also, you will have to take the medication constantly, and not just when you have a panic attack in order for the medicine 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.

Tricyclics are also used to treat anxiety and panic disorders. Similar to SSRIs, tricyclics harmonize the levels of neurotransmitters in your brain. However, tricyclics have more side effects, including weight gain, drowsiness, vomiting, and fainting. Imimpramine (Tofranil) is commonly prescribed for anxiety.

Benzodiazepines are another type of panic attack medication that you may want to consider if you don’t want to take antidepressants every day. These drugs help to reduce anxiety, and will start working very quickly, usually within 30 minutes. You should take these pills when you are starting to experience a panic disorder in order to relieve the symptoms and calm your heart rate down. However, benzodiazepines can be very addictive, and when you are looking to get off the medication, the withdrawal symptoms can be very serious.

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.

You should also make an effort to modify your diet in ways that help relieve panic attacks. Include foods like raw nuts, lean cuts of chicken, and beans in order to increase the amount of B vitamins that you are receiving. Including fresh fruits and vegetables like watermelon, oranges, and broccoli are also ideal, since they are rich in vitamin C, which helps to boost the immune system. It’s important to supplement your medication program with a healthy diet.

A panic attack is one of the most frightening disorders that you can experience. You will feel totally out of control, mentally, emotionally and physically. Find what you need to know about panic attack medication and other treatment options at Help for Panic Attacks.

  • Share/Bookmark