Can a change in medications worsen panic disorder and anxiety symptoms?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 32-year-old male in relatively good health. I have been suffering from mental health issues my whole life and have been under treatment for about 15 years. I have severe panic disorder and social or general anxiety. I used to drink heavily to control my anxiety and panic attacks. But I have not been drinking for the past five years. Recently, my symptoms have worsened leading me to believe that my treatment regimen is not working. Right now I am in the transition phase between medications, from Cymbalta 120 mg and Abilify 5 mg to Cymbalta 60 mg and Gabapentin 300 mg. I am using Xanax, less than 2 mg per day to control the panic attacks which occur multiple times during the day. Recently I used Cymbalta 120 mg and Abilify 5 mg which caused me a lot of problems. I have also tried Zoloft, Vistaril, Buspar, and Doxepin. I am hoping to get a second opinion as soon as possible.

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and understand your concern.

You can go for the new regimen of drugs in combination with a few blood tests. It will help you.

I suggest you follow the below guidelines to deal with your panic attacks.

You should do exercises or go for a walk daily for at least 30 to 45 minutes.
You should do meditation daily for 20 minutes. Just sit in a comfortable position and try to concentrate on your normal breathing. Do not force yourself to stop your thoughts, just let it be. It will relax you.
You should eat healthy home-cooked foods, and avoid junk food.
You must drink enough water.
You should spend quality time with your friends and family daily. Do video calls if you are living away from your family.
You should spend time on creative hobbies like reading good books, writing journals, painting, drawing, and learning new skills, language, or musical instruments.
You should get seven to eight hours of sleep daily.
You must avoid tobacco, alcohol, or any substance abuse.

I suggest you take the following tests.

CBC (complete blood count).
Thyroid profile.
Vitamin B12.
Vitamin D3.

Live your life, do not just spend it. Be bold and confident.

I hope this has helped you.

Thank you.