Panic attacks can be scary and overwhelming. During a panic attack, your heart may race. Your chest might feel tight, and you may struggle to breathe. Some people feel dizzy, shaky and out of control. If you have panic attacks often, you may wonder if medication can help manage the severity and frequency of these episodes.

The National Library of Medicine says treatment for panic disorder usually includes therapy, medication or both. Antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications are the types of medication typically prescribed for panic disorder. Medication can be a useful tool for managing panic attacks. However, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. Before deciding on a medication, or whether to take medication at all, it’s important to consult with a professional. Understanding how medications work and what to expect can also help you make an informed decision.

4 considerations to think about when deciding whether medication is right for your panic attacks

• How does medication work?

Before taking medication, it’s helpful to know how it works. Panic attack medications typically fall into two main categories:

• Long-term medications – These include antidepressants like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) also fall into this category. These medications don’t work right away. They may take a few weeks to start helping. Over time, though, they may help prevent panic attacks from happening as often.
• Fast-acting medications — Some medications are designed to start addressing panic attack symptoms right away. Benzodiazepines like Xanax or Ativan can help calm your body quickly during a panic attack. They work fast; however, they can also be addictive if used too often. There are also concerns of sedation, cognitive slowing and potential for tolerance. Providers often only prescribe them for short-term use. If you experience a lot of panic attacks, your provider may prescribe a fast-acting medication during the initiation phase of a more long-term medication.

Some people do well with medication. Others find that it’s not necessary after learning coping techniques in therapy. Talking to a provider can help you understand the best route for you.

• What are the benefits and risks?

Medications can come with major benefits. However, they can also have negative side effects. Understanding the benefits and risks of a specific medication is key to making an informed decision.

Possible benefits:

• Fewer panic attacks
• Less severe symptoms
• Better daily functioning

Possible risks:

• Side effects
• Dependence
• May not fully resolve panic disorder symptoms alone

While medication can be very helpful, it often works best when paired with psychotherapy and lifestyle interventions to address root causes.

• Have you tried other treatments?

Medication can help. It’s not the only way to manage panic attacks, though. Some people prefer to try psychotherapy and lifestyle changes first or combine these approaches with medication.

Here are some other treatments that can help with panic attacks:

• Psychotherapy
• Deep breathing and other relaxation techniques
• Regular exercise
• Avoiding caffeine and alcohol
• Support groups

If you haven’t tried these options yet, you might want to start here before considering medication.

• Are you getting medication management?

If you decide to try medication, it’s important to have professional support to make sure you’re on the right track. Treatment programs like a Virtual Partial Hospitalization Program (vPHP) typically include medication management services. You may meet with a psychiatrist regularly to make sure your medications are effective.

Medication management includes:

• Choosing the right medication — A psychiatrist can help you find one that fits your needs.
• Monitoring side effects — Your psychiatrist will check in with you to see how you’re feeling.
• Making adjustments — If needed, your psychiatrist can change your dosage or help you try a different medication.
• Future planning — Your psychiatrist can help you decide if and when you should stop taking medication.

Lightfully can help you make informed treatment decisions

Deciding whether to take medication for panic attacks is a personal choice. There’s no single right answer. What matters is finding what works best for you.

You can get professional guidance and medication management as part of your treatment plan at Lightfully. We’re dedicated to helping each client get top-notch mental health support tailored to their needs. Everything we do is based on compassion, evidence and a holistic care approach. Our Precision Care Model (PCM) is designed to target the drivers behind mental health disorders and symptoms using the most effective aspects of evidence-based modalities. With our help, you can figure out the best approach for you and get started on your treatment journey.

Change is possible. To learn more about how we treat panic disorders, contact us. When you’re ready to start a treatment program and get the medication you need, reach out to our Admissions Concierge Team. We’ll take the next steps together, toward the fullest, brightest version of you.