Panic Disorder

Question 1

Define Panic Disorder

Answer 1

recurrent, unexpected panic attacks

Question 2

Define Panic Attack

Answer 2

Discrete periods of intense fear or discomfort in which >4 of the following symptoms develop abruptly within 10min: tachypnea, chest pain, palpitations, diaphoresis, nausea, trembling, dizziness, fear of dying or “going crazy” depersonalization, or hot flashes

Question 3

Average age of onset of panic disorder

Answer 3

25years old

Question 4

perioral and/or acral paresthesias

Answer 4

can present in panic attacks, produce hyperventilation and low O2 saturation

Question 5

Time frame for Panic Disorder

Answer 5

1 or more months of concern about having additional attacks or significant behavior change like avoiding situations that may precipitate attacks

Question 6

Patients with panic disorder and Agoraphobia

Answer 6

30-50%; address if both are present for treatment plan

Question 7

Short-term Therapy for Panic Disorder

Answer 7

Benzodiazepine (clonazepam), then taper off for LT tx with SSRIs

Question 8

Long-term Therapy for Panic Disorder

Answer 8

SSRIs are first-line; TCAs; CBT

Question 9

Reason not to use Alprazolam (Xanax) to treat panic disorder

Answer 9

It has a short half-life so patients can go into withdrawal within a day