Suggest Treatment For Panic Attacks

Posted on Mon, 9 Jun 2014

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Mon, 9 Jun 2014 Answered on

Mon, 7 Jul 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : I am suffering from panic attacks, I am 81 yrs. old and am under a phycharist care.
I am not completely satisfied with him. I still get these panic attacks even though I
am on his recommended medication. maybe I should look for a good phycholist
to work with my primary care physician. what are your recommendations?

Answered by Dr. Abhishek Kapoor (3 hours later)

Brief Answer:
You can try paroxetine

Detailed Answer:
HI
Thanks for using healthcare magic. I, Dr Abhisek Kapoor, would help you in this query.

In panic disorder, you need antidepressant like paroxetine or escitalopram. These medications have good response on anxiety symptoms. You have been on cymbalta (duloxetine) and mirtazapine. Both of these drugs are effective in depressive or somatic symptoms, but not effective for anxiety symptoms. Better to try paroxetine or escitalopram. You can also try relaxation exercise like JPMR or deep breathing exercise. That would keep you calm and relax. Rest, you can discuss with your psychiatrist.

If you have more query, you can ask.

Regards
Dr. Abhishek Kapoor
Psychiatrist

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar