Question

3. Julie is receiving selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) for her depression. Her psychiatrist told her that they would improve her mood and mental alertness and make her more active. Meanwhile, Julie's friend told her that he was prescribed an SSRI for panic attacks. Why are these two ailments being treated with the same class of drugs? Is one of these patients mistaken about the type of drug being taken?

Answer 1

• One class of antidepressants, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), are often prescribed to treat panic disorder, anxiety, and panic attacks.

• Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors, or simply SSRIs, refer to a specific class of antidepressant medications. When first introduced in the 1980s, SSRIs were used to treat depression. Now established to be effective in treating panic disorder, SSRIs include medications such as Prozac (Fluoxetine), Paxil (Paroxetine), Celexa (Citalopram), Lexapro (Escitalopram), Luvox (Fluvoxamine), and Zoloft (Sertraline).
• As the name implies, SSRIs affect serotonin, which is a naturally occurring chemical or neurotransmitter in the brain. Serotonin is associated with the regulation of mood and is considered to be imbalanced in those with anxiety issues. SSRIs focus solely on the levels of serotonin (selective) by preventing its absorption (reuptake) by nerve cells in the brain. By stabilizing levels of serotonin, these medications decrease feelings of anxiety, regulate mood, and improve sleep making them effective in managing depression and anxiety.
• Due to long-term effectiveness, limited side-effects, and validated research outcomes, SSRIs are the most commonly prescribed drug for panic disorder.
• common ways in which SSRIs are used in the treatment of panic disorder:

1. Symptom Reduction:

SSRIs have been found to decrease the frequency and intensity of panic attacks. Reducing the severity of attacks helps relieve the fear associated with future attacks, which is one of the most debilitating symptoms of panic disorder. SSRIs can make a huge difference for a person who has become afraid of leaving the home or is having difficulties engaging in other necessary activities.

2. Skill-Building:

Participating in therapy and self-help activities is an important part of the recovery process. Self-help strategies include breathing exercises and relaxation skills. A qualified therapist can provide Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which involves developing new ways of thinking and behaving in order to cope with panic disorder. CBT is a long-lasting aid in managing symptoms, but medication can assist in rapidly reducing symptoms, allowing for focus on techniques. When symptoms are under control, one may feel ready to practice exposure therapy, the gradual introduction of phobic situations to slowly build up a sense of confidence when faced with fear.

3. Treating Co-Occurring Issues:

SSRIs can not only serve to combat the symptoms of panic disorder but can also alleviate coexisting issues. Other mental health issues, such as depression or different forms of anxiety, are often associated with panic disorder.