Early intervention in panic: pragmatic randomised controlled trial

Br J Psychiatry. 2010 Apr;196(4):326-31. doi: 10.1192/bjp.bp.109.072504.

Abstract

Background: Many people suffer from subthreshold and mild panic disorder and are at risk of developing more severe panic disorder.

Aims: This study (trial registration: ISRCTN33407455) was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of an early group intervention based on cognitive-behavioural principles to reduce panic disorder symptomatology.

Method: Participants with subthreshold or mild panic disorder were recruited from the general population and randomised to the intervention (n = 109) or a waiting-list control group (n = 108). The course was offered by 17 community mental health centres.

Results: In the early intervention group, 43/109 (39%) participants presented with a clinically significant change on the Panic Disorder Severity Scale-Self Report (PDSS-SR) v. 17/108 (16%) in the control group (odds ratio (OR) for favourable treatment response 3.49, 95% CI 1.77-6.88, P = 0.001). The course also had a positive effect on DSM-IV panic disorder status (OR = 1.96, 95% CI=1.05-3.66, P = 0.037). The PDSS-SR symptom reduction was also substantial (between-group standardised mean difference of 0.68). The effects were maintained at 6-month follow-up.

Conclusions: People presenting with subthreshold and mild panic disorder benefit from this brief intervention.

Publication types

  • Multicenter Study
  • Randomized Controlled Trial
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy / methods*
  • Community Mental Health Services / methods
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Panic Disorder / therapy*
  • Patient Acceptance of Health Care
  • Psychiatric Status Rating Scales
  • Psychotherapy, Group / methods
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Young Adult

Associated data

  • ISRCTN/ISRCTN33407455