Clinical Trial: Panic Disorder and Cardiac Risk

Study Status: Completed
Recruit Status: Unknown status
Study Type: Interventional

Official Title: Panic Disorder and Cardiac Risk: Evaluation of a Psychological Treatment Which Addresses Biology, Psychology and Behaviour

Brief Summary:

The reason for increased cardiac mortality in panic disorder has not been precisely identified, but possibly is due to chronic activation of the cardiac stimulant (sympathetic) nerves, which may predispose the individual with panic disorder to disorders of cardiac rhythm and coronary artery spasm. The uniqueness of this study lies in its comprehensive evaluation of a psychobiological approach to the treatment of panic disorder using change in biological, behavioural and psychological variables as criteria for efficacy. 50 patients aged between 18 and 60 years will be recruited; both males and females. They will be treated with either cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) or SSRI (selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitor) antidepressants or a combination of both.

This project will firstly compare individuals with panic disorder who demonstrate abnormal brain transmitter (noradrenaline, serotonin) with those who demonstrate normal activity of these neurotransmitters, on interoceptive accuracy for changes in sympathetic nervous system arousal. It is predicted that individuals who demonstrate abnormal activity of these neurotransmitters will also demonstrate enhanced interoceptive ability to detect changes in arousal levels. Secondly, this project will evaluate the effects of a psychobiological treatment approach to panic disorder involving a combination of CBT and SSRI. This approach will be compared to the effects of both these interventions alone on a comprehensive array of measures related to panic disorder. It is predicted that the combined approach will be the most effective intervention on behavioural, psychological and biological variables, and cardiac risk. We will also be able to assess whether changes in panic disorder severity are associated with changes in interoceptive accuracy.

Detailed Summary:
Sponsor: Baker Heart Research Institute

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Information By: Baker Heart Research Institute

Dates:
Date Received: September 10, 2005
Date Started: June 2002
Date Completion: December 2008
Last Updated: April 4, 2007
Last Verified: April 2007