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Low-dose venlafaxine treatment in panic disorder
L A Papp1, S S Sinha, J M Martinez
1Biological Studies Unit, New York State Psychiatric Institute, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, NY, USA.
Psychopharmacology Bulletin
|June 26, 1998
Summary
Venlafaxine, a novel antidepressant, effectively treated panic disorder in a 10-week study. Patients experienced reduced anxiety and stopped panic attacks at a low daily dose, showing good tolerability.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Pharmacology
- Clinical Medicine
Background:
- Panic disorder is a debilitating condition often treated with antidepressants.
- Venlafaxine is a novel antidepressant with combined mechanisms of action, including SSRI and cyclic antidepressant properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of venlafaxine in treating panic disorder.
- To determine the optimal dosage range for venlafaxine in panic disorder patients.
Main Methods:
- An open-label, fixed-flexible dose study.
- Thirteen patients diagnosed with DSM-IV panic disorder (with or without agoraphobia) participated.
- Treatment duration was 10 weeks.
Main Results:
- All completers showed statistically significant decreases in anxiety symptom scores.
- Complete cessation of panic attacks was observed in all completers.
- The mean effective daily dose was 47 mg, which is lower than typical antidepressant dosages.
- Venlafaxine was well tolerated by all participants.
Conclusions:
- Venlafaxine demonstrates potential as an effective antipanic agent.
- Lower-than-typical antidepressant dosages of venlafaxine may be sufficient for panic disorder treatment.
- Venlafaxine offers a well-tolerated treatment option for panic disorder.