Which statement best describes the treatment approach for panic disorder as indicated in the material?

Which statement best describes the treatment approach for panic disorder as indicated in the material?

• A. SSRI is a first-line pharmacotherapy for panic disorder
• B. SNRI is the first-line treatment for panic disorder
• C. Benzodiazepines are first-line monotherapy for panic disorder
• D. Antipsychotics are recommended for panic disorder

Answer: (A)

The main concept is that starting pharmacotherapy for panic disorder relies on selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors as the first-line option. SSRIs are preferred because they consistently reduce the frequency of panic attacks and the anticipatory anxiety that fuels fear of future episodes, with a strong evidence base from multiple studies. They work by boosting serotonin signaling in brain circuits that regulate fear and stress, which helps dampen the exaggerated panic response over weeks to months. SSRIs also address potential coexisting depression or generalized anxiety, and they have a favorable safety profile with a low risk of dependence compared with other options. It’s important to note that SSRIs take some time to exert full benefit, so patients may need supportive strategies in the interim and a plan for gradual dose adjustment and monitoring. Benzodiazepines can be useful for rapid relief or as a short-term bridge during SSRI initiation, but they are not the preferred long-term monotherapy due to risks of tolerance, dependence, and withdrawal. Antipsychotics are not indicated as a standard treatment for panic disorder. SNRIs can be effective in some patients, but the material in question identifies SSRIs as the first-line pharmacotherapy.

The main concept is that starting pharmacotherapy for panic disorder relies on selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors as the first-line option. SSRIs are preferred because they consistently reduce the frequency of panic attacks and the anticipatory anxiety that fuels fear of future episodes, with a strong evidence base from multiple studies. They work by boosting serotonin signaling in brain circuits that regulate fear and stress, which helps dampen the exaggerated panic response over weeks to months. SSRIs also address potential coexisting depression or generalized anxiety, and they have a favorable safety profile with a low risk of dependence compared with other options. It’s important to note that SSRIs take some time to exert full benefit, so patients may need supportive strategies in the interim and a plan for gradual dose adjustment and monitoring.

Benzodiazepines can be useful for rapid relief or as a short-term bridge during SSRI initiation, but they are not the preferred long-term monotherapy due to risks of tolerance, dependence, and withdrawal. Antipsychotics are not indicated as a standard treatment for panic disorder. SNRIs can be effective in some patients, but the material in question identifies SSRIs as the first-line pharmacotherapy.