💓 Panic Disorder

Commonly prescribed medications, what to avoid, and lifestyle guidance

📋 Overview

Panic disorder involves recurrent unexpected panic attacks with physical symptoms (racing heart, chest pain, dizziness). It is treatable with medication and therapy.

💊 Commonly Prescribed Medications

Sertraline (Zoloft)SSRI

First-line. Start at very low dose. Full effect takes 4-8 weeks.

Paroxetine (Paxil)SSRI

FDA-approved specifically for panic disorder.

Clonazepam (Klonopin)Benzodiazepine (short-term)

Fast-acting for acute panic. Short-term use only — habit-forming.

🚫 What to Avoid

Caffeine is a major panic trigger. Alcohol worsens panic disorder long-term. Daily benzodiazepines for more than 2-4 weeks cause dependence.

🥗 Lifestyle Tips

CBT with exposure therapy is the most effective long-term treatment. Regular aerobic exercise reduces panic frequency.

📋 Important Note

Panic attacks feel terrifying but cannot harm you. Avoidance behavior worsens panic disorder.

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