Pilot open-label study of alprazolam (U-31,889) in anxious alcoholic out-patients

Twenty out-patients suffering from anxiety and tension after withdrawal from alcohol were treated for 28 days with alprazolam. Three patients dropped out for intercurrent events, and 2 dropped out for recurrent drinking. Of the 15 patients completing the study, analysis of variance showed significant improvement in all Physician's Ratings as well as all patient self-ratings. At the 28th day, 93% of the patients rated moderate to marked improvement on the Physician's Global Impression and Therapeutic Effect, and 93% self rated at least a little better. Side-effects were generally mild and inconsequential. No adverse effects attributable to alprazolam were noted on laboratory evaluations, EKG's or ophthalmologic examinations.