Anxiety disorders constitute a significant public health concern, affecting approximately 19.1% of US adults annually, with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) being particularly prevalent. These disorders markedly impair quality of life, increasing health care utilization, cost, and risks for severe cardiovascular events. This chapter reviews the pharmacological management of anxiety disorders, emphasizing GAD and panic disorder. Treatment begins with a thorough evaluation to distinguish anxiety symptoms from medication side effects or underlying medical conditions. Common therapeutic agents include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin/norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), benzodiazepines, and non-benzodiazepine anxiolytics. Special attention is given to medication selection based on patient factors, such as age, comorbid conditions, and potential for drug-drug interactions. Management strategies highlight the necessity for patient education on medication side effects and adherence, especially in the elderly or those with neurological disorders. Benzodiazepines, though effective acutely, pose significant risks including abuse potential and cognitive impairment, necessitating cautious use. Finally, the importance of integrating psychotherapy, particularly cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), is noted for comprehensive anxiety disorder management.

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Anxiolytics

  • Steven R. Chang,
  • Noam Grysman

摘要

Anxiety disorders constitute a significant public health concern, affecting approximately 19.1% of US adults annually, with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) being particularly prevalent. These disorders markedly impair quality of life, increasing health care utilization, cost, and risks for severe cardiovascular events. This chapter reviews the pharmacological management of anxiety disorders, emphasizing GAD and panic disorder. Treatment begins with a thorough evaluation to distinguish anxiety symptoms from medication side effects or underlying medical conditions. Common therapeutic agents include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin/norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), benzodiazepines, and non-benzodiazepine anxiolytics. Special attention is given to medication selection based on patient factors, such as age, comorbid conditions, and potential for drug-drug interactions. Management strategies highlight the necessity for patient education on medication side effects and adherence, especially in the elderly or those with neurological disorders. Benzodiazepines, though effective acutely, pose significant risks including abuse potential and cognitive impairment, necessitating cautious use. Finally, the importance of integrating psychotherapy, particularly cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), is noted for comprehensive anxiety disorder management.