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National Institute of Mental Health

Getting Treatment for Panic Disorder

Medication

Several types of medication that alter the ways chemicals interact in the brain can reduce or prevent panic attacks and decrease anxiety. Two major categories of medication that have been shown to be safe and effective in the treatment of panic disorder are antidepressants and benzodiazepines.

Each medication works differently. Some work quickly and others more gradually. All of them have to be taken on a regular basis. Usually, treatment with medication lasts at least 6 months to a year. But within 8 weeks, you and your doctor should be able to assess whether it's effectively blocking the panic attacks. More details on medications can be found in the brochure "Understanding Panic Disorder." To get a copy, see the back of this pamphlet.

Clinical experience suggests that for many patients with panic disorder, a combination of CBT and medication may be the best treatment. The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) is conducting a large study to confirm this and to help determine the kinds of patients most likely to need combined therapy.

HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT TREATMENT FOR YOU

Various types of health professionals may have the training and experience needed to treat panic disorder. Sometimes panic disorder patients are treated by two health care professionals—one who prescribes and monitors medication and another who provides CBT.

Each professional will use the treatments with which he or she is most familiar and successful. It is vital to choose a professional who is trained and experienced in the treatment methods described earlier; it is equally important to choose someone with whom you feel comfortable.

Many people begin looking for treatment by visiting their family doctor or a local clinic or health maintenance organization. Other places to seek help include your local health department or community mental health clinic. If there is a university near you, you may wish to ask about participating in a panic disorder study. Many universities have ongoing treatment research programs in their psychology or psychiatry departments that may provide care at less expense.

To help you locate mental health professionals in your area, NIMH has available a Referral List, which gives the names and telephone numbers of organizations that can provide you with a referral. If you did not receive a copy of the list with this brochure, you can get one by calling 1-800-64-PANIC.

When seeking a health care professional to treat your panic disorder, you may want to ask the following questions:

How many patients with panic disorder have you treated?
Do you have any special training in panic disorder treatment?
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What is your basic approach to treatment—cognitive-behavioral therapy, medication, or both? If you provide only one type of treatment, how do I get the other if I need it?
How long is a typical course of treatment?
How frequent are treatment sessions? How long does each session last?
What are your fees?
Can you help me determine whether my health insurance will cover this?

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