Several classes of medications have been demonstrated to be effective in the treatment of panic disorder. The two major classes are the benzodiazepines and the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). The serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) venlafaxine (Effexor XR) is effective in treating panic disorder as well. Benzodiazepines Rapid-onset, short-acting tranquilizers help by aborting or limiting panic episodes [7]. Alprazolam (Xanax) and lorazepam (Ativan) are commonly used. Clonazepam (Klonopin) is long acting and may work more efficiently in some patients [7]. Table 7.3 lists three commonly used benzodiazepines for panic disorder. These medications have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in panic disorder patients. Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors The SSRIs are invaluable in the long-term treatment and prevention of panic episodes [1,2,4,8–10]. These medications work well, are generally well tolerated, and regarded as safe in most cases [10]. This class of medications is regarded as the primary treatment for most patients. While the benzodiazepines work nicely to control panic symptoms, the SSRIs may help to prevent panic attacks altogether. Table 7.4 lists several SSRI medications that have been FDA approved for indications of panic disorder. Other Medication Treatments Table 7.5 lists other medications that may be effective for panic disorder. Venlafaxine (Effexor XR) is approved for use by the FDA for the treatment of panic disorder. Fluvoxamine (Luvox), citalopram (Celexa), and escitalopram (Lexapro) are not specifically approved by the FDA for the treatment of panic disorder, but may be useful therapies in some patients.