If you have been having panic attacks pretty often, it may be a good idea to talk to your doctor about panic attack medication that may work well for you. And, even if you don't want to take prescription medications, there are several natural remedies that you can explore as well.

Although antidepressants were originally designed to treat depression, psychiatrists and patients alike have found them effective against anxiety and panic disorders. If you and your doctor decide that you should be on antidepressants, remember that you need to be taking antidepressants regularly for a few weeks before you notice effects. So if initially you don't feel better, just sit tight.

Requiring no dietary changes, SSRIs are a type of antidepressant medication that are virtually impossible to overdose on. They have very few side effects. Although some people experience nausea, headache, or tiredness, these symptoms usually fade within a week. Your doctor starts you on a relatively low dose, to accustom you to the effects. Your dosage may rise, if your doctor determines you need more of the medication. You do not develop a tolerance, thus your doctor does not need to increase your dosage every few days.

Tricyclics are also used to treat anxiety and panic disorders. Similar to SSRIs, tricyclics harmonize the levels of neurotransmitters in your brain. However, tricyclics have more side effects, including weight gain, drowsiness, vomiting, and fainting. Imimpramine (Tofranil) is commonly prescribed for anxiety.

Benzodiazepines are long term medications that can be taken for months or years. Xanax is a widely prescribed medicine. It can block panic attacks quicker than antidepressants and there are fewer side effects. However, some patients will develop withdrawal symptoms if they discontinue taking the medication too quickly. Doctors will advise patients to take lower doses continuously over a period of a few months. It's best to have a physical exam and make sure that you are in pretty good health before you start the medication, since it can be very taxing in the nervous system when you are ready to quit.

When beta blockers first appeared in pharmacies, they were meant for heart conditions. Interestingly enough, doctors then discovered their potency as anti-panic attack medication. During a panic attack, your heart beats very fast. Beta-blockers such as propanolol prevent this from happening, therefore relieving many of the symptoms of a panic attack.

You should also make an effort to modify your diet in ways that help relieve panic attacks. Include foods like raw nuts, lean cuts of chicken, and beans in order to increase the amount of B vitamins that you are receiving. Including fresh fruits and vegetables like watermelon, oranges, and broccoli are also ideal, since they are rich in vitamin C, which helps to boost the immune system. It's important to supplement your medication program with a healthy diet.

One of the most frightening ailments that you can suffer from is a panic attack. You will feel completely out of control, both psychologically and physically. Find the information you need to know about panic attack medication and other treatment options at Help for Panic Attacks.