Which antidepressant medication is sometimes prescribed to manage panic attacks?

Master the Psychiatric Technician State Board Exam. Prepare with focused multiple-choice questions, detailed hints, and comprehensive explanations. Get fully equipped for your certification!

Tofranil, or imipramine, is a tricyclic antidepressant that is often used to manage panic attacks, particularly in cases of panic disorder. It works by balancing neurotransmitters in the brain, which can help alleviate the debilitating symptoms associated with panic attacks and anxiety. Clinicians may prescribe this medication due to its effectiveness in reducing both the frequency and intensity of panic episodes.

While other medications listed, such as Prozac, Zoloft, and Lexapro, are also effective for treating depression and anxiety disorders, they are primarily classified as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Although SSRIs are commonly used for anxiety and panic disorders, imipramine's unique mechanism and historical use in treating panic attacks provide it with a specific role in this context.

Therefore, Tofranil's capability to directly address the clusters of symptoms found in panic attacks is what makes it a suitable choice in certain situations, distinguishing it from the other options provided.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy