How many medicines should I be taking for my symptoms of panic disorder?
There are no easy answers to this and it is a very individual choice. Generally one medicine should always be the aim but combinations (often called “polypharmacy”) sometimes help. It is rarely of any use to combine drugs with similar ways of working. Below are some of the combinations that are used with the reasons. This is not a complete list but you might want to talk to your prescriber about any combinations not on this list you may be prescribed.
Sometimes benzodiazepines or beta-blockers can be used with an SSRI to start with to help the increased anxiety that can happen with some people, but benzodiazepines and beta-blockers are not recommended long-term. Below are some of the combinations that are used with the reasons. This is not a complete list but you might want to talk to your prescriber about any not on this list.
| Main medicine | Second medicine | Reason |
| A serotonin or noradrenaline booster (e.g. citalopram, escitalopram, fluvoxamine, paroxetine, sertraline, clomipramine, imipramine) | Benzodiazepine (e.g. clonazepam, diazepam, chlordiazepoxide) | As an add-on medicine in times of extra need e.g. at the start or at stressful times |
| A serotonin or noradrenaline booster (e.g. citalopram, escitalopram, fluvoxamine, paroxetine, sertraline, clomipramine, imipramine) | Beta-blocker (e.g. propranolol or oxprenolol) | As an add-on medicine in times of extra need e.g. at the start or at stressful times |