pediatrics
Panic Disorder in Children and Adolescents
Treatment
Usually benzodiazepines or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) plus behavioral therapy Treatment of panic disorder is usually a combination of drug therapy and behavioral therapy. In children, it is difficult to even begin behavioral therapy until after the panic attacks have been controlled by medications. Benzodiazepines are the most effective medications, but SSRIs are often preferred because benzodiazepines are sedating and may greatly impair learning and memory. However, SSRIs do not work quickly, and a short course of a benzodiazepine (eg,lorazepam0.5 to 2.0 mg orally 3 times a day) may be helpful until the SSRI is effective. 