Autonomic perception and responses in anxiety-inducing situations

The anxiolytic and sedative properties of a thienodiazepine (clotiazepam) were investigated in 40 healthy subjects with varying degrees of arousal and with the aid of specific anxiety-inducing conditions. A cross-over design with a double blind technique was used. EEG, heart and respiratory rate, peripheral pulse volume and skin resistance were measured during the anxiety-inducing conditions with the visualization of neutral and fearful situations as well as with the threat of shock. The mood, physical sensations and behaviour tendencies of the test subjects were determined by self-rating questionnaires. The anxiolytic and sedative effects of the thienodiazepine under study were able to be differentiated as far as subjective perception and autonomic responses were concerned. The development of sedative and anxiolytic effects is dependent on the subject's state of arousal. Situations involving the anticipation of anxiety are sufficient as proof of pharmacogenic anxiolysis. The tranquilizer reduces anxiety and physical tension, but does not influence the timing of autonomic readiness responses, and thus does not affect the coping strategies.