부산대학교 도서관

Panic disorder is an anxiety disorder commonly seen in older adults, but diagnosis may be complicated by a symptom profile that overlaps with common medical illnesses, particularly pulmonary or cardiovascular disorders. Cognitive–behavioral therapy is an effective treatment for panic disorder with an approach that combines repeated and controlled exposure to autonomic physical sensations along with cognitive and somatic coping strategies. Although benzodiazepines are the most common psychopharmacologic treatment for panic disorder due to their immediate effects, they carry risks for older adults and are best used to treat acute panic while waiting for the effects of an antidepressant to kick in. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and serotonin–norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors are considered first-line treatments.