CLINICAL UTILITY OF THE SELECTIVE SEROTONIN REUPTAKE INHIBITORS IN THE SPECTRUM OF ANXIETY

The selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are now being empl oyed in the treatment of the full spectrum of anxiety, disorders. In c omparative trials, the SSRIs are proving to be equal or superior in ef ficacy to traditional antianxiety medications. Due to their favorable side effect profile, safety, and tolerability, they are rapidly replac ing older agents in the treatment of anxiety. Neuroanatomical pathways that may be important in the antianxiety effect of the SSRIs are outl ine and discussed followed by a review of the clinical evidence suppor ting the efficacy of this class of medications in the treatment of anx iety disorders. (C) 1998 Society of Biological Psychiatry.