In treating agoraphobia, antidepressants are more effective than anti-anxiety medications [1]. In severe cases, other treatments, such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and relaxation therapy, are combined with medications [2].
Antidepressants: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are used for the treatment of panic disorder and agoraphobia [1]. Side effects of SSRIs include feeling sick, loss of libido, blurred vision, diarrhea, constipation, feeling agitated, and excessive sweating [3]. These side effects are expected to diminish over time, though some may occasionally continue [3]. If an SSRI medication does not alleviate your symptoms, an alternative SSRI or a related medication, such as a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI), may be prescribed [3]. The duration for which you will need to take an SSRI or SNRI depends on your treatment response [3]. Some individuals may need to take SSRIs for 6 to 12 months or longer [3].
Anti-anxiety medications: Benzodiazepines, a type of anti-anxiety medication, are sedatives that may be prescribed by your healthcare provider in certain cases to ease anxiety symptoms [1]. Typically, they are used short-term to manage sudden, acute anxiety, as they can be habit-forming and are not recommended for individuals with long-standing anxiety issues or a history of alcohol or drug misuse [1]. Pregabalin can also be prescribed in case the patient cannot take SSRIs and SNRIs for medical reasons or troubling side effects [3]. Side effects of pregabalin are dizziness and drowsiness [3].
References
Agoraphobia - Diagnosis and treatment - Mayo Clinic. (n.d.). https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/agoraphobia/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20355993#:~:text=Antidepressants%20are%20more%20effective%20than,of%20panic%20disorder%20with%20agoraphobia.
Website, N. (2024b, January 11). Overview - Agoraphobia. nhs.uk. https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/conditions/agoraphobia/overview/#:~:text=You'll%20usually%20be%20prescribed,as%20CBT%20and%20relaxation%20therapy.
Website, N. (2023, November 14). Treatment - agoraphobia. nhs.uk. https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/conditions/agoraphobia/treatment/
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