Pharmacologic treatment of phobic disorders.

Pharmacologic treatment of phobic disorders, in particular agoraphobia, has been proved to be effective, especially when used in combination with behavior therapy. Favorable responses to tricyclic antidepressants, monoamine oxidase inhibitors, and benzodiazepines have been reported. The limitations of drug therapy for phobias include high dropout rates and the tendency to relapse after discontinuation of therapy. Successful treatment depends on the careful selection of patients and medications and on coordination of drug and behavior therapies.