Panic disorder: a treatment update

Abstract

Panic disorder is characterized by unexpected, unprovoked attacks of cognitive symptoms (e.g., dread, fear) and physical symptoms (e.g., palpitations, trembling, shortness of breath). It is the most common anxiety disorder seen in clinical practice. Pharmacotherapy has been shown to be effective in controlling symptoms of panic disorder, although potential disadvantages (e.g., adverse drug reactions, withdrawal syndrome, dependency) must be carefully assessed and balanced against the advantages. Current data indicate that for panic disorder, benzodiazepines prescribed for more than a 6-month period are as effective as other forms of pharmacotherapy, i.e., monoamine oxidase inhibitors and tricyclic antidepressants. Generally, doses of benzodiazepines used for the treatment of panic are higher compared to those used for generalized anxiety disorder.