pregabalin and Phobia--Social

Social anxiety disorder (SAD) is associated with scarce functioning and poor quality of life. Although selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) are currently first-line treatments, side effects are common and affect treatment compliance in approximately 50% of patients. This review aimed to summarize data on the efficacy of unlabeled molecules for SAD treatment.. Research in the main psychiatric databases was conducted (PubMed, PsychINFO, and EMBASE-Ovid) to select studies investigating the efficacy of marketed molecules not labeled for SAD treatment.. Pregabalin at high doses (450-600 mg/day) appears to be a reliable alternative strategy for SAD treatment. Among the SSRIs not labeled for SAD, citalopram showed the most promising results. Quetiapine, levetiracetam, and other antidepressants/serotonergic agents, such as fluoxetine, duloxetine, monoamine oxidase inhibitors, tricyclics, mirtazapine, atomoxetine, nefazodone, vilazodone, and buspirone, presented negative, limited, or contrasting results. Data on anticonvulsants, olanzapine, tiagabine, and ketamine were positive, but preliminary. The risk/benefit ratio must be considered in the prescription of unlabeled compounds; treatment with pregabalin may be associated with somnolence and dizziness. Future research may contribute to the identification of targeted molecules for the treatment of this disorder.

Topics: Adult; Antidepressive Agents; Humans; Phobia, Social; Pregabalin; Quality of Life; Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors

Anxiety disorders belong to the most frequent psychiatric disorders according to epidemiological studies and are associated with a high economic burden. Panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, and specific phobia belong to the most important clinical disorders. The etiology is complex, including genetic, neurobiological as well as psychosocial factors. With regard to treatment, both psychotherapy and medication can be employed according to current treatment guidelines. With regard to psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) represents the treatment of choice. As for pharmacological treatment, in particular modern antidepressants and pregabalin are recommended. However, several recommendations have to be considered in daily clinical practice.

Topics: Anti-Anxiety Agents; Antidepressive Agents; Anxiety Disorders; Cognitive Behavioral Therapy; Combined Modality Therapy; Cross-Sectional Studies; Humans; Panic Disorder; Phobia, Social; Phobic Disorders; Pregabalin

Topics: Adult; Clonazepam; Drug Resistance; Drug Therapy, Combination; Female; Humans; Paroxetine; Phobia, Social; Pregabalin; Psychotropic Drugs