Continuing treatment of panic disorder after acute response: randomised, placebo-controlled trial with fluoxetine

Background Data concerning appropriate treatment in panic disorder followin g an initial response to acute therapy are limited. Aims To assess the safety and efficacy of continued fluoxetine treatment fo llowing successful acute therapy of panic disorder. Method Patients who responded to acute fluoxetine treatment were randomised to 24 weeks of continued fluoxetine or placebo. Results Fluoxetine responders randomised to continue on their acute-phase f luoxetine dose experienced statistically significant improvement in panic a ttack frequency and phobia rating scale score over 24 weeks of therapy, whi le those switched to placebo experienced statistically significant worsenin g in Hamilton Anxiety (HAM-A), Hamilton Depression (HAM-D) and SCL-90-R rat ing scores. Conclusions Fluoxetine was associated with improved clinical outcomes compa red with placebo during continuation therapy. Declaration of interest This study was funded by Eli Lilly and Company. Dr Michelson, DrTamura, DrTollefson and MsTepner are employees of Eli Lilly an d Company. Dr Pollack and Dr Lydiard are paid consultants to Eli Lilly and Company.