Cognitive-behavior therapy for discontinuation of SSRI treatment of panic disorder: a case series

Behav Res Ther. 2001 Aug;39(8):939-45. doi: 10.1016/s0005-7967(00)00067-x.

Abstract

In this report we describe the outcome of eight outpatients with panic disorder and agoraphobia who discontinued their treatment with a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) in the context of a structured, group program of cognitive-behavior therapy. All patients successfully discontinued their SSRI medication while demonstrating clinical improvement. These results were maintained at 3-month follow-up. This case series suggests that manualized CBT for discontinuation of benzodiazepine treatment for panic disorder may be successfully applied to SSRI discontinuation as well.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Agoraphobia / drug therapy*
  • Agoraphobia / psychology
  • Ambulatory Care
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy*
  • Combined Modality Therapy
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Panic Disorder / drug therapy*
  • Panic Disorder / psychology
  • Psychotherapy, Group*
  • Recurrence
  • Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors / adverse effects*
  • Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors / therapeutic use
  • Substance Withdrawal Syndrome / psychology
  • Substance Withdrawal Syndrome / therapy*

Substances

  • Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors