What should you know about Rescue Remedy for panic attacks?

Rescue Remedy is a complementary product, not an established emergency treatment for panic attacks; do not use it instead of urgent medical help or a clinician’s care plan. It is commonly sold as drops, sprays, pastilles, or other preparations. Ingredients and alcohol content vary, so read the label and mention it to your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you take medicines, are pregnant, or are caring for a child.

A panic attack can bring sudden fear with a racing or pounding heart, chest tightness, fast breathing, trembling, dizziness, or numbness and tingling. These sensations can feel dangerous even when they are driven by the body’s alarm response. Rescue Remedy may feel comforting as part of a personal routine, but it should not be relied on to stop the attack or to explain new physical symptoms. Panic disorder describes repeated unexpected attacks or ongoing worry about another attack; a clinician can assess this and rule out other causes.

Sit somewhere safe and loosen tight clothing. Breathe gently and slowly, allowing the out-breath to be a little longer than the in-breath; avoid breathing rapidly into a paper bag. Name a few things you can see, hear, and feel to bring attention back to the room. If you use Rescue Remedy, follow its label and do not exceed the stated amount. Avoid alcohol or driving if a preparation makes you drowsy. Arrange a GP Consultation if attacks recur, interfere with daily life, or lead you to avoid places. A Mental Health Assessment can help identify treatment options such as talking therapy and, when appropriate, medication.

Call emergency services in the UAE for severe or persistent chest pain or tightness, trouble breathing, fainting, sudden weakness, confusion, or symptoms that feel different from previous panic attacks. Seek urgent help as well if you may harm yourself or cannot stay safe. Do not assume these symptoms are panic simply because anxiety is present. For milder symptoms that settle but keep returning, book a medical assessment. Chest Tightness, Palpitations, Feeling Anxious, and Numbness and Tingling may have several causes, so a clinician should assess persistent or unfamiliar symptoms.

Ask what might be causing your symptoms, whether any physical checks are appropriate, and how to recognise a panic attack compared with an urgent medical problem. Tell the clinician the exact Rescue Remedy product, how often you use it, and every medicine or supplement you take. You can also ask which therapy could reduce future attacks and what to do if symptoms return at home.