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Panic disorder with agoraphobia

• Overview
• Symptoms
• Treatment
• Prevention

Treatment:

The goal of treatment is to help the person function effectively. The success of treatment usually depends in part on the severity of the agoraphobia.

Antidepressant medications are effective treatments for many people with panic disorder -- selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as Paxil, have become the effective treatments. Other antianxiety medications may also be prescribed.

Behavioral therapies that may be used in conjunction with drug therapy include relaxation techniques, pleasant mental imagery, and cognitive behavioral therapy to restructure distorted and potentially harmful interpretations of the experience of severe anxiety.

Other psychological counseling and therapy techniques may help individuals gain an understanding of the illness and the specific factors that serve as protectors or triggers for them.

Expectations (prognosis):

Most patients can expect improvement with medications or behavioral therapy. However, without early and effective intervention, the disorder may become more difficult to treat.

Complications:

• Panic disorder may coexist with other anxiety disorders or depression
• Patient may develop inability to function at work or in social situations
• Patient may abuse alcohol or other drugs in an attempt to self-medicate
• Patient may feel isolated or lonely, depressed, or suicidal

Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with your provider if you are experiencing episodes that suggest panic attacks.

References:

Moore DP, Jefferson JW. Handbook of Medical Psychiatry . 2nd ed. St. Louis, Mo: Mosby; 2004:162-163.

Rakel RE. Textbook of Family Practice . 6th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: WB Saunders; 2005:1440.

• Review Date: 5/8/2006
• Reviewed By: Paul Ballas, D.O., Department of Psychiatry, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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