[Clinical effect and tolerance of paxil (paroxetine) in management of panic disorders].

AIM: To determine clinical efficiency and tolerance of paxil (paroxetin) in the treatment of panic disorders.

MATERIAL AND

METHODS

An open, non-comparative 7 week study entered 60 patients (mean age 36.6 +/- 3.22 years) with panic disorders and agoraphobias with panic disorders. Paroxetin was given in a single daily dose 20-60 mg/day in the morning. The results were assessed by Hamilton and Sihan scales, scale of clinical impression, by reduction of panic attacks.

RESULTS

In 72.2% of patients panic attacks ceased or occurred less frequently (by 50%). Anxiety relieved by 67 +/- 4.6%. The number of the responders was greater while the effect occurred faster in patients with panic disorders. The drug was well tolerated, side effects occurred in 43.3% of cases. They were mild or moderate.

CONCLUSION

Paroxetin has a prominent anxiolytic and antiphobic action, is well tolerated and is effective in panic disorders and agoraphobia with panic disorders.