A panic disorder refers to repeated and sudden attacks of fear. MedlinePlus indicates that these attacks can last for minutes to hours. Signs of a panic attack include nausea, stomach problems, sweating, shortness of breath and dizziness. In some instances, a panic attack can also lead to trembling, a pounding heartbeat, feelings of choking and a fear of losing control. Fortunately, drugs to treat panic disorder exist.
Alprazolam
Alprazolam, commonly sold as Xanax or Niravam, is a benzodiazepine medication that treats panic attacks and anxiety disorders. Specifically, this drug balances chemicals in the brain called neurotransmitters.
Drugs.com says that alprazolam's less concerning side effects include dizziness, drowsiness, a dry or watery mouth, a decrease in sex drive, vomiting, constipation and nausea. In some cases, alprazolam causes slurred speech, appetite and weight changes, muscle weakness and a lack of coordination. Phone a doctor when alprazolam's less serious effects remain for greater than 1 week.
Alprazolam's serious side effects include yellowing of the skin or eyes, agitation, hostility, hallucinations, depression and seizures. Sometimes, alprazolam causes muscle twitching, hyperactivity, fainting, lightheadedness, suicidal thoughts and tremors. Notify a doctor when alprazolam's serious side effects develop.
A doctor will reduce alprazolam's dose when a person suffers from such diseases as asthma, bronchitis, kidney or liver disease, depression, suicidal thoughts or chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder.
Alprazolam is a tablet taken daily or as prescribed.
Fluvoxamine
Fluvoxamine, commonly sold as Luvox, is another medication used to treat panic disorders. Drugs.com says that fluvoxamine belongs to a group of medicines called serotonin reuptake inhibitors. It also balances chemicals in the brain.
Fluvoxamine's less concerning side effects include weight loss, a poor appetite, dizziness, drowsiness and dry mouth. In some instances, fluvoxamine can lead to strange dreams, trouble sleeping, constipation and weight loss. Talk to a doctor when fluvoxamine's less serious side effects last for greater than 1 week.
Fluvoxamine's serious side effects include a seizure, a fever, chills, anxiety, hallucinations and trouble concentrating. In some instances, fluvoxamine leads to restlessness and muscle stiffness. Go to the emergency room when this drug leads to these effects.
A change in fluvoxamine's dose may be necessary when suffering from such diseases as bipolar disorder, seizures, epilepsy or seizures.
Fluvoxamine is a regular tablet taken daily or as indicated.
Tranylcypromine
Tranylcypromine, commonly sold as Parnate, is yet another medication to treat panic disorder. MedlinePlus says that tranylcypromine is a monoamine oxidase inhibitor that also increases the chemicals in the brain so that panic disorder symptoms are decreased.
Tranlcypromine's less serious side effects include a poor appetite, a dry mouth, chills, blurry vision, stomach pain, constipation, diarrhea and trouble urinating. In some instances, this drug leads to hair loss, a rash, ringing in the ears, muscle tightening, stomach pain and weakness. Phone a physician when tranylcypromine's less serious side effects last for greater than 5 days.
Traylcypromine's serious side effects include a headache, light sensitivity, neck stiffness, sweating, nausea, abnormal bleeding or bruising, dizziness, cold or clammy skin, a pounding heartbeat and a headache. Call a doctor at once when tranylcypromine leads to these effects.
Medications such as amoxapine, methyldopa, citalopram or fluoxetine may interact with tranylcypromine. Tranylcypromine is a tablet taken two times daily.
