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Supp~ panic attacks with Ouvoxamine

Fluvoxamine reduces the frequency of panic attacks and lowers the ratings of depression and anxiety after 3 and 6 weeks of treatment, respectively. However, fluvoxamine does not appear to reduce the severity of panic attacks, say the investigators of a double-blind, parallel study.

The later onset of fluvoxamine's effects on anxiety and depression confer with the later onset of its therapeutic effects on the Hamilton Rating Scale for Anxiety, note the study authors. These results may be due to the different mechanisms of action of fluvoxamine.

The aim of the US study, involving 50 outpatients with panic disorder, was to compare the effects of fluvoxamine with those of placebo on the frequency and severity of panic attacks. The effects of fluvoxamine on coexisting generalised anxiety, depression, work, and social and family disabilities were also investigated. Weekly evaluations during the study included a patient diary of the severity and frequency of attacks, the Montgomery-Asberg Depression Scale, the Clinical Anxiety Scale and the Sheehan Disability Scale.

Fluvoxamine appears to be effective, safe and generally well-tolerated in the treatment of panic disorders, conclude the investigators. None of the patients received psychotherapy while participating in the study.

Hoehn-Sarie R. MeLeod DR. Hipsley PA. Effect of fluvoxamine on panic disorder. Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology 13: 321-326. Oct 1993

THERAPY

1lm.16.170

11 Dec 1993INPHARMAe ISSN 0156-270319311211-0021$1.00" Adlelntematlonel Ltd