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Epinephrine infusions in panic disorder: a double-blind placebo-controlled study
D J Veltman1, G A van Zijderveld, R van Dyck
1Department of Psychiatry, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
Journal of Affective Disorders
|July 8, 1996
Summary
Epinephrine infusion significantly increased panic attacks in individuals with Panic Disorder compared to placebo. Cognitive factors appeared less important than physiological responses in triggering panic.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Neuroscience
- Psychopharmacology
Background:
- Panic Disorder is a debilitating condition characterized by sudden episodes of intense fear.
- The role of physiological factors, such as epinephrine, in triggering panic attacks is a key area of research.
- Understanding the interplay between physiological and cognitive factors in panic is crucial for effective treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of physiological doses of epinephrine on panic attack incidence in subjects with Panic Disorder.
- To differentiate between epinephrine-induced panic and placebo-induced panic.
- To explore the relationship between physiological responses (heart rate, pCO2) and panic symptoms.
Main Methods:
- A double-blind, placebo-controlled design was employed with 24 subjects diagnosed with Panic Disorder.
- Subjects received either epinephrine infusion or a placebo.
- Panic rates, heart rate, and partial pressure of carbon dioxide (pCO2) were monitored.
Main Results:
- The panic rate was significantly higher in the epinephrine group (67%) compared to the placebo group (25%).
- Placebo-induced panic was associated with anticipation anxiety and situational stress.
- Individuals experiencing panic showed a greater increase in heart rate and a drop in pCO2.
- Fear of bodily sensations showed a weak association with state anxiety at the time of panic.
Conclusions:
- Epinephrine infusion can reliably induce panic attacks in individuals with Panic Disorder.
- Physiological responses, particularly cardiovascular changes and alterations in pCO2, are strongly linked to panic.
- Cognitive factors, such as fear of bodily sensations and state anxiety, may play a less significant role in epinephrine-induced panic compared to physiological triggers.