In a prospective 2-year follow-up study, 32 patients with panic disorder
alone and 20 with panic disorder and concomitant depression were
investigated. After controlled treatment with either imipramine or doxepin,
patients received naturalistic treatment with antidepressants,
benzodiazepines, and supportive psychotherapy. They were evaluated for
anxiety, depression, and social disability at least every 3 months during
the follow-up period. The data showed fluctuation of symptoms in both
groups and a less favorable outcome for the patients with comorbid
conditions. However, the overall outcome was better than that reported in
other studies and indicates that panic disorder is quite responsive to
appropriate treatment.
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