Does Sertraline treat panic attacks? (+5 options)
By
Ivan Kahwa
Author bio
Mr Ivan Kahwa is a chemist and phytopharmaceutical scientist with expertise in chemistry, pharmacology, phytochemistry, and Nanobiotechnology. He writes and reviews content on these topics.
Mr Ivan Kahwa’s Highlights:
Guest Researcher at the University of Leipzig, Senior Research Fellow/Scientist, and Lecturer at the Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
Professional Experience:
Mr Ivan joined PHARMBIOTRAC as a research fellow/scientist during his master of science tenure. He contributed to the development of most of the phytopharmaceutical products in the project. Furthermore, he participated in carrying out the pharmacological activities of the developed products in laboratory animals such as mice and rats in order to develop proper doses hence leading to pre-clinical studies.
With the above relevant research experience, Ivan started to work with the University of Leipzig on collaborative projects with Mbarara University to develop the chemistry of Ugandan Medicinal plants and their pharmacological activities. This was coupled with several consultative positions by different German NGOs. Mr. Kahwa is also a supporting in the teaching and learning at the Departments of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
With the increase in antimicrobial resistance globally, Ivan retooled his thinking towards developing new naturally derived antibiotic regimens from Ugandan propolis with the assistance of nanotechnology to improve their delivery to microbial cells. Kahwa has also published over 28 articles in peer-reviewed journals and he is currently reviewing for many journals.
Education:
2023-2027: PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences (ongoing) with a focus on Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Nanobiology at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
2022: 2Msc. in Pharmacognosy and Natural Medicine Science at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
2018: Bachelor of Science (Chemistry) at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
Publications:
▪ Iqbal, S., Jabeen, F., Kahwa, I., & Omara, T. 2023. Suberosin Alleviates Thiazolidinedione-Induced Cardiomyopathy in Diabetic Rats by Inhibiting Ferroptosis via Modulation of ACSL4-LPCAT3 and PI3K-AKT Signaling Pathways. Cardiovascular Toxicology. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12012-023-09804-7
▪ Gupta, A. K., Yadav, R., Sharma, S., Sawale, J., & Kahwa, I. 2023. Anti-ageing Activity and Antioxidant Activity of Methanol Extracts of Leaves and Flowers of Salvia officinalis and Rosmarinus officinalis. Journal of Young Pharmacists, 15(3), 448–455. https://doi.org/10.5530/jyp.2023.15.60
▪ Tolo, C.U., Kahwa, I., Nuwagira, U., Weisheit, A. and Ikiriza, H., 2023. Medicinal plants used in treatment of various diseases in the Rwenzori Region, Western Uganda. Ethnobotany Research and Applications, 25, pp.1-16.
https://ethnobotanyjournal.org/index.php/era/article/view/4683
▪ Kahwa, I., Ajayi, C.O., Yadav, R., Chauhan, N.S., Shah, K., Abdelgadir, A.A., Shegena, E.A., Daniel, S., Omara, T., Asiimwe, J.B. and Ikiriza, H., 2023. Pharmacognostic and phytochemical studies as an invaluable approach for correct identification of medicinal plants: The case of Artemisia vulgaris L. substituted for Artemisia annua L. in Western Uganda. TMR Integr Med, 7, p.e23004.
https://doi.org/10.53388/TMRIM202307004
▪ Nalimu, F., Oloro, J., Kahwa, I. and Ogwang, P.E., 2021. Review on the phytochemistry and toxicological profiles of Aloe vera and Aloe ferox. Future Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 7, pp.1-21.
https://doi.org/10.1186/s43094-021-00296-2
▪ Elamin, O.H.S., Ali, M.A., Elgezuli, I.A.A., Bashir, M.A. and Kahwa, I., 2021. Diagnosis of pre-and post-treatment of echinococcus granulosus with counter current immune electrophoresis and bacterial co-agglutination. Journal of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, 11(02), pp.88-94.
https://doi.org/10.5799/jmid.951600
Published book Chapter
▪ Kahwa, I., Ayesiga, I., Nakalema, S., Alinaiswe, R., Mbabazi, R. and Iqbal, S., 2023. Natural products in the management of onchocerciasis. In Natural Products in Vector-Borne Disease Management (pp. 63-80). Academic Press. Book Chapter.
https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-323-91942-5.00012-4
Submitted manuscripts Under Review:
▪ Comparison of the Wound Healing Activity of the Leaf and Leaf Ash Extracts of Vernonia amygdalina in Rats. Journal name: Clinical Phytoscience
▪ Ethnobotanical Survey of Medicinal plants used in the management of cancer in Uganda. Journal name: Journal of Herbal Medicine
▪ Ethnobotanical survey and phytochemical screening of medicinal plants used in treatment of epilepsy by PROMETRA-Uganda Traditional Health Practitioners in Mpigi District, Uganda. Journal name: Journal of Ethnopharmacology
Submitted book chapters under review
1.Book title: Algae as a Natural Solution for Water-Food-Energy Nexus, Section 4: Microalgae and cyanobacteria for food applications, Chapter 4.6: Safety, toxicological and allergenic aspects of using algae for food. Authors: Christine Kyarimpa, Tom Omute, Caroline K. Nakiguli, Alice V. Khanakwa4, Christopher Angiro, Ivan Kahwa, Fortunate Ahumuza, Timothy Omara*. Publisher: Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. 152 Beach Road, #21-01/04 Gateway East, Singapore 189721, Singapore.
2.Book title: Nutraceuticals Inspiring the Contemporary Therapy for Lifestyle Diseases. Chapter: Nutraceutical applications of Seaweeds and their Phytocompounds in Nutrition and Treatment of Diseases. Authors: Ivan Kahwa, Timothy Omara , Innocent Ayesiga , Gael Noel Neh Neba Ambe , Zehbanaz Javidbhai Panwala , Rachel Mbabazi , Shabnoor Iqbal , Christine Kyarimpa , Christine Betty Nagawa , Kamal Shah ,Nagendra Singh Chauhan* Publisher: CRC Press
You can view my works on the following professional sites:
Research Gate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Ivan-Kahwa
Google Scholar: https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=tOwrvqoAAAAJ&hl=en
ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6440-3437
Linkedin: https://de.linkedin.com/in/ivan-kahwa-865450159
In this article, we will discuss the potential efficacy of Sertraline for the management of panic attacks. Additionally, we will also delve into research studies on this topic and discuss what to do if Sertraline is not effective in the management of panic attacks.
Does Sertraline treat panic attacks?
Yes, Sertraline can be used to treat panic attacks. Sertraline is a selective serotonin receptor inhibitor (SSRI) that is used in the management of panic attacks if prescribed by your healthcare provider. However, its effectiveness may vary among individuals due to factors such as the severity of the condition and genetic differences (1,2).
Panic attacks are characterized by abrupt episodes of intense fear or discomfort. These attacks can lead to various physical reactions throughout the day, significantly impacting an individual’s quality of life. What sets this condition apart is that panic attacks occur unexpectedly, without warning (2).
Antidepressant medications, such as Sertraline and other SSRIs, have gained attention for their potential to alleviate panic attacks as panic disorders often occur concurrently with depression and other anxiety disorders (1,2,3).
What does research suggest?
Numerous clinical trials and research studies have provided evidence that Sertraline may effectively reduce both the frequency and severity of panic attacks.
SSRIs, including Sertraline, exhibit effectiveness in managing panic attacks through their mechanism of action. Sertraline’s ability to enhance serotonin levels plays a crucial role in managing panic attacks. Low serotonin levels are associated with mood disorders and anxiety which may present as shortness of breath, abdominal distress, chest discomfort and depersonalization in panic attacks (1,2).
A study assessing the efficacy of Sertraline in managing panic disorders substantiated this hypothesis, demonstrating the safety and effectiveness of Sertraline in treating this condition (3,4).
Furthermore, a systematic review examining drug treatments for panic disorder further supported the hypothesis that SSRI medications have high rates of remission with a low risk of adverse effects for the treatment of panic disorders (5).
What factors influence the treatment of panic attacks with Sertraline?
While Sertraline can be effective for some individuals with panic attacks, it is important to consider several factors including (3,4,5):
- Individual sensitivity – Some individuals may be more responsive to the medication, making it more effective in the management of panic attacks.
- Dosage – Administering the lowest effective dose is beneficial for patient compliance and minimizing side effects.
- Duration of treatment – Long-term use of this medication has proven effective in the management of panic attacks.
- Drug interactions – Concurrent use of Sertraline with other medications may potentially reduce the medication’s efficacy.
- Underlying medical conditions – Conditions such as depression and other mood disorders can affect the treatment of panic attacks.
- Substance abuse – Excessive use of recreational drugs and alcohol can affect the efficacy of Sertraline treatment.
How long does Sertraline take to treat panic attacks?
Sertraline works by gradually elevating serotonin neurotransmitters in your brain to counteract symptoms such as palpitations, sweating, negative thoughts, suicidal ideation and shaking associated with panic attacks and mood disorders. This medication is not a rapid solution for managing panic attacks (1).
While it may take approximately 4-6 weeks for Sertraline to manage the physical manifestations of panic attacks, it often takes several weeks for the medication to achieve its full psychological therapeutic effect (5).
However, properly following your doctor’s recommended instructions is key to managing panic attacks effectively.
What to do if Sertraline does not treat your panic attacks?
If Sertraline does not effectively treat your panic attacks, it is important to consult your healthcare provider. They will evaluate your condition, review your treatment plan and provide guidance on how to make your treatment effective.
If your doctor suspects that the dose of the medication might not be effective, they may recommend titrating your dose. Some individuals may require higher doses for symptom relief.
Additionally, your doctor may consider switching to a different medication such as escitalopram, that may be associated with fewer side effects.
In the event of severe manifestations involving suicidal ideation and behaviours, you should seek immediate medical assistance.
Furthermore, your healthcare provider may recommend augmenting your therapy. This may involve adding cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) to your treatment plan for management of panic attacks. Additionally, psychotherapy may be useful in addressing triggers that may cause panic attacks.
Lifestyle modifications such as regular exercise, nutrient-rich diets, good sleep hygiene and reducing substance abuse could complement medication treatment in this condition.
Conclusion
In this article, we have discussed the potential efficacy of Sertraline in treating panic attacks. Additionally, we have addressed how long the medication takes to become effective, as well as appropriate steps to take if Sertraline is ineffective in your case.
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