A Medline search of research on pharmacotherapy was undertaken , and a previous systematic review on the evidence -based pharmacotherapy of panic disorder was up date d. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors remain a first-line pharmacotherapy of panic disorder , with the serotonin noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor venlafaxine also an acceptable early option .
Temporary co-administration of benzodiazepines can be considered .
For patients not responding to first-line agents several pharmacotherapy options are available , but there is a notable paucity of data on the optimal choice
The evidence -based pharmacotherapy of panic disorder continues to evolve .
This paper review s data on first-line pharmacotherapy , evidence for maintenance treatment , and management options for treatment-refractory patients .
Safety and efficacy of levetiracetam for patients with panic disorder: results of an open-label, fixed-flexible dose study.
OBJECTIVE To examine the safety and efficacy of the anticonvulsant levetiracetam in the treatment of patients with panic disorder . METHOD In an open-label , fixed-flexible dose study , 18 patients with panic disorder with or without agoraphobia ( DSM-IV diagnostic criteria ) were treated with levetiracetam for 12 weeks . Outcome was assessed with st and ard rating instruments ( Clinical Global Impressions-Severity of Illness scale [ CGI-S ] , Clinical Global Impressions-Improvement scale [ CGI-I ] , and the 14-item Hamilton Rating Scale for Anxiety [ HAM-A ] ) and by the number of panic attacks during the previous week . The study was conducted in 2 outpatient clinics in New York City from January 2004 through July 2005 . RESULTS Of the 13 patients completing the study , 11 were rated " very much " or " much " improved on the CGI-I. Panic attack frequency , anxiety ( HAM-A ) , and global severity ( CGI-S ) ratings also demonstrated significant improvement ( all p < .00 ) . For most patients , clinical benefits were apparent after only 1 to 2 weeks of treatment . Levetiracetam was well tolerated with minimal side effects . CONCLUSION Given its favorable pharmacokinetics , side effect profile , and , if confirmed , early onset of action and efficacy , levetiracetam might represent significant progress in the pharmacologic management of panic disorder
A Medline search of research on pharmacotherapy was undertaken , and a previous systematic review on the evidence -based pharmacotherapy of panic disorder was up date d. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors remain a first-line pharmacotherapy of panic disorder , with the serotonin noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor venlafaxine also an acceptable early option .
Temporary co-administration of benzodiazepines can be considered .
For patients not responding to first-line agents several pharmacotherapy options are available , but there is a notable paucity of data on the optimal choice
The evidence -based pharmacotherapy of panic disorder continues to evolve .
This paper review s data on first-line pharmacotherapy , evidence for maintenance treatment , and management options for treatment-refractory patients .