The nature and duration of treatment for GAD.
It is becoming increasingly evident that GAD is a chronic condition with repeated acute-on-chronic episodes. Treatment in the short term relies on the benzodiazepines, which are rapid in action, providing substantial symptomatic relief with a low incidence of side-effects and low toxicity in overdose. The risk of more serious unwanted effects in the long term, including some risk of physical dependence, has led to a move towards alternative treatments both pharmacological and psychotherapeutic. Antidepressants are being used on a long-term basis, but data are sparse to confirm their efficacy in GAD. Anxiety management and cognitive-behavioural techniques are rivalling pharmacotherapy in popularity. None the less, research seeking optimal ways of combining therapies remains an urgent priority.
Institute of Psychiatry, London, UK.
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Lader
D014151:Anti-Anxiety Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000009:adverse effects; D000928:Antidepressive Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects; D001008:Anxiety Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000523:psychology; D001569:Benzodiazepines; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D006801:Humans; D008134:Long-Term Care; D011613:Psychotherapy; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D014151:Anti-Anxiety Agents; D000928:Antidepressive Agents; D001569:Benzodiazepines