The Efficacy and Role of Anticonvulsants as a Treatment Option in Anxiety Disorders

Abstract

Treatment options for anxiety disorders include pharmacotherapy and cognitive-behavioral therapy. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and serotonin noradrenalin reuptake inhibitors are the first-line pharmacological treatment approach for most of the anxiety disorders. The efficacy of anticonvulsants in anxiety disorders, including carbamazepine, lamotrigine, topiramate and gabapentin has been shown in some clinical studies. The strongest evidence has been provided for pregabalin and valproic acid in generalized anxiety disorder, pregabalin and gabapentin in social anxiety disorder, and lamotrigine in posttraumatic stress disorder. Further research is needed to determine the efficacy of anticonvulsants as an alternative therapeutic option for the patients resistant to conventional treatment. (Archives of Neuropsychiatry 2009; 46: 19-23)