Psychopharmacologic treatment of anxiety

The medications currently used to treat generalized anxiety, panic attacks, and phobic disorders are reviewed, and research comparing their relative efficacies and use in conjunction with nonpharmacologic approaches is discussed. Although there is increasing public and professional interest in these disorders and their treatment, available research does not yet provide conclusive evidence that would permit more specific treatment recommendations, particularly in generalized anxiety disorder. A possible hierarchy of approaches to the diagnosis and treatment of anxiety disorders is presented and the need for further research in specific areas is identified.