Sertraline treatment of panic disorder: results of a long‐term study

Abstract

Objective: To investigate the long‐term efficacy, prevention of relapse and safety of sertraline in the treatment of panic disorder. Method: This study consisted of 52 weeks of open‐label sertraline treatment ( n =398) followed by a 28 weeks of a double‐blind, placebo‐controlled discontinuation trial ( n =183). Results: Ninety‐three patients were randomized to sertraline and 90 were randomized to placebo. Discontinuation due to insufficient clinical response occurred in 23.6% of placebo‐treated patients and 12.0% of sertraline‐treated patients (log‐rank test, P =0.040). Thirty‐three per cent of placebo‐treated patients had an exacerbation of panic symptomatology, versus 13% of sertraline‐treated patients (log‐rank test, P =0.005). Abrupt cessation of sertraline resulted in dizziness (4.3% sertraline vs. 16.9% placebo; P =0.007) and insomnia (4.3% sertraline vs. 15.7% placebo; P =0.013) occurring at significantly higher rates. Conclusion: Long‐term sertraline treatment was effective in preventing relapse of panic disorder, well tolerated and associated with minimal discontinuation symptoms.