A 32-year-old man presents with classic panic attacks: sudden episodes of palpitations, chest tightness, fear of dying and avoidance of public places....

Question

A 32-year-old man presents with classic panic attacks: sudden episodes of palpitations, chest tightness, fear of dying and avoidance of public places. Cardiac and endocrine workups are normal. According to Canadian guidelines, which is the most appropriate first-line pharmacologic treatment?

Accepted Answer

A selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) such as sertraline

Answer

Diazepam as needed

Answer

A tricyclic antidepressant as first choice

Answer

Antipsychotic monotherapy

Answer

No pharmacologic treatment is effective

ca-mccqe1 MCQ (SBA): Panic disorder

A 32-year-old man presents with classic panic attacks: sudden episodes of palpitations, chest tightness, fear of dying and avoidance of public places. Cardiac and endocrine workups are normal. According to Canadian guidelines, which is the most appropriate first-line pharmacologic treatment?