Panic Attack Medications - What Is An Ssri?

SSRIs are Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors. They are antidepressants, meaning they are very often prescribed for depression. But, certain ones can also be an effective panic attack medication.

Popular SSRIs include Paxil, Prozac and Zoloft. These have shown to be quite effective in the treatment of the attacks, especially when combined with therapy.

SSRIs affect neurotransmitters, which are used by brain nerves to send out messages to one another. Ultimately, SSRIs help make more serotonin available for other nerves.

Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs) were frequently used as treatments for panic disorders before SSRIs. But, the SSRIs have been proven to be safer and easier to tolerate than the TCAs - so TCAs are not prescribed as much today.

But, of course, SSRIs have their own possible side effects to deal with. These side effects can range between minor and possibly even life-threatening. That is why it is always important to work closely with a doctor when trying these types of medications. And, women who are pregnant should not take these medications because of the risk to the fetus.

Overall, SSRIs are popular medications because they can help control the number, severity and anxiety associated with these attacks.

SSRIs need to be taken daily, and most people should start to see improvements within a few weeks of starting on them. If they do not see any improvement by then, they should check with their doctor to see if they need a higher dose. Some people may need to stay on SSRIs for a while, but others may be able to work with their doctor to wean off of the medication after a year.

Overall, the closer an attack sufferer works with their doctor when taking SSRIs, the better chance they have of controlling their panic attacks.


Source : ReadBud