The document discusses the evolving role of benzodiazepines in the treatment of anxiety disorders. It notes that while antidepressants are now considered first-line treatment, benzodiazepines are still commonly prescribed and provide advantages like rapid onset of action. Benzodiazepines are particularly useful for initial treatment during the lag period of antidepressants or for residual anxiety when combined with antidepressants. The document concludes that benzodiazepines remain an important treatment option for anxiety disorders despite being considered second-line.

2. Evolving Role of Benzodiazepines in the Treatment of Anxiety

9. Anxiety Disorders DSM=Diagnostic and Statistical Manual; GAD=generalized anxiety disorder; OCD=obsessive-compulsive disorder; PTSD=posttraumatic stress disorder. Social anxiety disorder Panic disorder OCD GAD PTSD DMS-IV Spectrum of Anxiety Disorders

11. Evolution in the Treatment of Anxiety Disorders Benzodiazepines (Buspirone) TCAs SSRIs & SNRIs CBT Combos CBT=cognitive-behavioral therapy; SSRIs=selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors; SNRIs=serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors; TCAs=tricyclic antidepressants.

12. Drug Use in Generalized Anxiety Disorder (Percent of Total Rxs) NDTI MAT August 2001.

13. Drug Use in Panic Disorder (Percent of Total Rxs) BZD=benzodiazepine; Rxs=prescriptions. NDTI MAT August 2001. Total BZD=42%

14. Pharmacotherapy received by Panic Disorder patients in the HARP study (1989-2001) SE Bruce et al, poster presented at the 22 nd ADAA meeting, March 2002

28. Thanks