How to Treat Panic Disorder With Anti-Anxiety Drugs
The use of anti-anxiety drugs, also known as benzodiazepines, can be an effective way to treat a panic disorder, especially when used in conjunction with behavior modification therapy. Panic disorders, which are marked by frequent and intense panic or anxiety attacks, can be effectively reduced or eliminated with this type of treatment.
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Things You'll Need
- Physician or qualified health care professional
- Journal
- Anti-anxiety drugs
Instructions
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Treat a Panic Disorder With Anti-Anxiety Drugs
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Document your panic or anxiety attacks as thoroughly as possible, noting frequency, intensity, the possible causes and circumstances, and the duration. Keep a journal for this so that you can accurately record each incident. These records will be very useful to your doctor or health care professional in determining whether an anti-anxiety drug will be an effective form of treatment for you.
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Investigate the various types of anti-anxiety drugs that are used to treat panic disorders so that you will become familiar with potential side effects. More common types of anti-anxiety drugs are ****, Valium, Ativan and Klonopin. Common side effects include drowsiness, confusion, the inability to drive or operate machinery. It is also important to realize that many anti-anxiety drugs are highly addictive.
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Consult with your physician to determine the best anti-anxiety drugs to prescribe for your particular panic disorder. Ask for a physical examination to rule out the possibility that your panic disorder may be related to a potentially serious physical condition, such as hypoglycemia, hyperthyroidism, inner-ear imbalances or even a heart condition.
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Investigate the adverse reactions that may be caused by some anti-anxiety drugs, especially in combination with other medications or substances. Mixing anti-anxiety drugs with alcohol, for instance, can be very dangerous, resulting in increased anxiety, depression and even suicidal thoughts. Review all of the medications you are taking, along with any other pertinent information, with your health care professional.
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Start a healthy exercise regimen once you have decided to treat your panic disorder with anti-anxiety drugs, along with behavioral modification therapy or psychotherapy. A systemic approach to panic disorders is the best way to eliminate the causes completely, as opposed to just covering up the symptoms with medication.
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Tips & Warnings
Beware of paradoxical reactions that might occur with some anti-anxiety drugs. In some instances, anti-anxiety drugs may produce an effect opposite to that intended, increasing hypertension, blood pressure and feelings of fear and anxiety. See your doctor immediately if you feel you are experiencing a paradoxical reaction.
