WHAT CONTROLS THE PATIENTS CHOICE OF ADMINISTRATION SCHEDULE IN BENZODIAZEPINE ANXIETY TREATMENT

A between-group cross-over design was used in the assessment of the ef fects of two different schedules of administration in benzodiazepine t reatment of generalized anxiety. Several rating scales were used to ga ther information on symptoms (DSM-III Axis I) as well as personality c haracteristics (DSM-III Axis II). Despite non-significant quantitative differences found on symptom measures between the different schedules of administration, most of the patients subjectively preferred an on- demand schedule of self administration, while a minority was indiffere nt to schedules. These data suggest a discrepancy between objectively, defined effects and subjective preferences, the latter probably gover ned by individual coping strategies, drug discrimination learning as w ell as public attitudes and doctor's prescription practice.