Treatments for generalized anxiety disorder

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Clinical Psychology

Background:

• Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is a chronic condition marked by excessive anxiety and somatic symptoms, significantly impacting daily life.
• Current treatment guidelines reference the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) for diagnosis and efficacy of various treatments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the efficacy of available treatments for generalized anxiety disorder.
• To identify optimal long-term therapeutic strategies for managing GAD and improving patient functioning.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing studies on pharmacotherapy (benzodiazepines, antidepressants) and psychotherapy (applied relaxation, cognitive therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy).
• Analysis of treatment efficacy, side-effect profiles, and long-term outcomes.

Main Results:

• Benzodiazepines offer short-term relief but have adverse events; antidepressants paroxetine and venlafaxine show efficacy with milder side effects and benefit comorbid depression.
• Long-term efficacy is demonstrated with venlafaxine, emphasizing the goal of improved functioning beyond symptom remission.
• Psychotherapy, particularly cognitive behavioral therapy, shows promise for long-term gains, alone or with pharmacotherapy.

Conclusions:

• Antidepressant therapy with paroxetine or venlafaxine, combined with cognitive behavioral therapy, is the recommended approach for achieving long-term benefits in generalized anxiety disorder.
• The focus of treatment should extend to improving overall functioning and quality of life, not just symptom resolution.