Does Lexapro help panic attacks? (+research studies)

This article will explore the topic of using Lexapro (escitalopram) for the treatment of panic attacks. It will discuss the effectiveness of Lexapro in reducing panic attacks and the potential mechanisms through which it works.

Additionally, the article will explore the findings of research studies on Lexapro’s efficacy and tolerability. It will also cover important information about potential side effects and alternative treatment options for panic attacks.

Does Lexapro help panic attacks?

Lexapro may help with panic attacks. However, as it is not approved by the FDA for this condition, it can be used off-label for panic disorder. Sective serotonin reuptake inhibitors like Lexapro are generally effective in the treatment of panic disorder and associated panic attacks [1].

However, people’s responses to medications are different and Lexapro may not be effective in treating panic attacks in everyone. Thus, it is always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate treatment option for your specific condition.

How can Lexapro reduce panic attacks?

Panic attacks may happen due to problems in the serotonin system. However, researchers are not yet sure if there is increased or decreased serotonin in panic disorder [2].

Serotonin has an inhibitory effect on three important parts of the brain: the part that controls stress hormones (locus ceruleus), the part involved in defense and escape responses (periaqueductal gray region), and the part responsible for releasing a hormone related to stress (corticotrophin-releasing factor) in the hypothalamus [2]. 

Increased activity in these brain regions can trigger panic attacks. Thus, SSRIs such as Lexapro can help reduce panic attacks by increasing serotonin levels, which in turn suppresses the activity of these regions in the brain [2]

What does research suggest?

One study measured the effects of escitalopram on panic attacks in patients with panic disorder using panic and Agoraphobia scales and questionnaires [3].

The results showed a statistically significant improvement in the frequency, severity, and symptoms of panic attacks in people taking Lexapro compared to those taking a placebo. The study concluded that escitalopram is an effective and well-tolerated treatment for panic disorder [3]. 

Another study focused on elderly patients (older than 65 years old) with panic disorder. It found that escitalopram led to a faster improvement in panic attack frequency and other efficacy measures compared to citalopram [4].

To illustrate, the escitalopram group showed fewer panic attacks as early as week 2, while the citalopram group showed improvement starting in week 4 [4].

In conclusion, research suggests that Lexapro (escitalopram) is effective in treating panic attacks. These studies demonstrated statistically significant improvements in panic attack frequency, as well as reductions in panic disorder symptoms and severity when compared to placebo.

Furthermore, escitalopram proved to be well-tolerated in both the general adult population and elderly patients with panic disorder.

What are the side effects of Lexapro in panic attack treatment?

Common side effects that may be associated with the use of Lexapro (escitalopram) for treating panic attacks can include nausea, diarrhea, sleepiness, dry mouth, drowsiness, insomnia, increased sweating, sexual or erectile dysfunction, and possible weight gain or weight loss [1].

However, not everyone will experience these side effects. Additionally, the intensity and frequency of the side effects can vary from person to person. It is recommended to report any experienced side effects to a healthcare professional and discuss any concerns or questions.

What to do if Lexapro isn’t effective in treating panic attacks?

If Lexapro is not effective in treating panic attacks, it is important to consult with your doctor to discuss possible management strategies.

Your doctor may recommend adjusting the dosage of Lexapro or considering a different medication. Additionally, engaging in therapy or counseling may help address psychological factors that cause panic attacks. Furthermore, it is necessary to follow the prescribed dosage.

It is also important to understand that it may take several weeks for the full effects of Lexapro to be felt, so it is important to continue taking the medication as directed and not discontinue it without your doctor’s permission. Sudden discontinuation can lead to dangerous withdrawal symptoms.

In addition, several management strategies can complement Lexapro treatment in reducing panic attacks. These strategies may include practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises, getting adequate sleep, and avoiding triggers that may exacerbate panic attacks.

Furthermore, any underlying stress or anxiety can be addressed through therapy or counseling and getting emotional support from friends and family. Cognitive-behavioral therapy can also be beneficial in addressing and managing the negative thoughts that lead to your panic attacks.

What other drugs are approved for panic attack treatment?

While Lexapro has shown some efficacy in addressing panic attacks, it is not officially approved for such treatment. Various other drugs are approved for treating panic attacks. Here are a few commonly prescribed medications, along with their approved dosage ranges for treating panic attacks and anxiety [5]: 

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)

SSRIs like Prozac (fluoxetine), Zoloft (sertraline), and Celexa (citalopram), are among the most common medications for treating panic attacks and anxiety disorders [5].

The recommended daily dosages for these drugs for the treatment of panic attacks usually range from 25 to 200 mg for Zoloft, 10 to 60 mg for Prozac, and 10 to 40 mg for Celexa [5]. 

Benzodiazepines

Xanax (alprazolam), Ativan (lorazepam), and Klonopin (clonazepam) should only be used in acute attacks. It is important to know that the frequent administration of benzodiazepines may potentially lead to dependency and misuse [5].

The recommended daily dosages of these drugs for the treatment of anxiety range from 0.25 to 1.5 mg for Xanax, 1 to 10 mg for Ativan, and 0.5 to 2 mg for Klonopin [5]. 

Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs):

SNRIs such as Effexor (venlafaxine) and Cymbalta (duloxetine) also play a role in the management of panic attacks and anxiety disorders. The typical daily dosages for venlafaxine range from 75 to 225 mg, while duloxetine doses range from 30 to 120 mg [5].

In conclusion, based on my research, I found that Lexapro (escitalopram) can be used off-label for the treatment of panic disorder and associated panic attacks. Studies have shown that Lexapro is effective in reducing the frequency, severity, and symptoms of panic attacks when compared to a placebo.

I believe that individual responses to medications may vary and Lexapro may not be effective for everyone. If Lexapro is not effective in treating your panic attacks, I recommend discussing possible management strategies with your doctor.

This may include adjusting the dosage of Lexapro, considering a different medication, engaging in therapy or counseling, and practicing relaxation techniques. It is crucial to follow the prescribed dosage and not discontinue the medication without your doctor’s permission to avoid withdrawal symptoms.

Based on my knowledge, other approved medications for panic attacks include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like Prozac, Zoloft, and Celexa, as well as benzodiazepines and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs).

References