When it comes to treating panic and anxiety attacks, medication is most often the treatment that doctors use. There are both advantages and disadvantages of using medication for panic attacks and we will look at many of them.

It's important to note that medications are used to treat the symptoms and reduce their severity and frequency. They are not a "cure" to eliminate them forever. That's why it is always best to take them in addition to using other methods such as counseling or home treatment exercises.

Most Frequent Types Of Medication For Panic Attacks

SSRI's (Selective Serotonin reuptake inhibitors)

SSRI's are the more common medications prescribed. These include Prozac, Zoloft and Paxil among others. Today's medications are designed to specifically build your level of neurotransmitter serotonin that is generally lower in patients who suffer with depression, anxiety and panic attacks.

Naturally, you can experience side effects like headaches, nausea, sleeplessness and even the feeling of being irritated (at least initially).

Benzodiazepines

Medications such as Xanax, Valium, Klonopin, Ativan and Librium are examples of Benzodiazepines used in treating panic attacks. Most of the time they work well, but not in all cases. Your doctor will certainly monitor your condition.

Side effects can include irritability, sexual dysfunction, drowsiness, slurred speech and others as well.

Beta Blockers

Used in helping to control the physical symptoms of panic attacks, beta blockers such as Atenolol and Propranolol are often prescribed. For those with rapid heartbeats, shaking and blushing, beta blockers have shown to work well.

Side effects can include drowsiness, short-term memory loss, and light-headedness, among others.

Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCA's)

Medications that fall under this category include Tofranil, Norpramin and Sinequan. They are prescribed most of the time in cases of severe depression or anxiety.

Side effects are frequent and include dry mouth, loss of sex drive, weight gain, difficulty in urinating and others as well.

Medications for panic attacks should help you reduce the frequency and severity of future bouts within 6 to 8 weeks. Most likely, once you start taking them, you will be on them for at least one year, longer in certain circumstances. Some people stay on them for years. Only your doctor can know for sure.