Effects of antianxiety agents on relaxation training: a preliminary investigation

The purpose of this preliminary study was to investigate the effects of certain antianxiety agents, that is, minor tranquilizers, sedatives, and hypnotics, on relaxation training. Twelve inpatients and two outpatients were referred to group relaxation training because of tension-anxiety complaints and underwent three training sessions. Results for those patients who were not having any psychotropic medication (Relaxation Only group) were compared with results for those who were receiving anxiolytic drugs (Medication-Relaxation group). Patients in the second group were on antianxiety medication prior to and during relaxation training. Self-report measures indicate that the Relaxation Only group benefited more from relaxation training and showed more treatment generalization effects. The results are interpreted as lending some support to the view that antianxiety drugs may have an interfering effect on relaxation training. Implications and limitations of the study are discussed.