Mechanisms of Panic Disorders Treatment

Last updated: April 8, 2011
Sponsor: University Medicine Greifswald
Overall Status: Trial Status Unknown

Phase

2/3

Condition

Panic Disorders

Mood Disorders

Anxiety Disorders

Treatment

N/A

Clinical Study ID

NCT01323556
AH 11.2009
  • Ages 18-65
  • All Genders

Study Summary

Investigation of mechanisms of exposure based learning by

  1. Investigating the effects of fear augmentation by interoceptive exposure during in vivo exposure

  2. Disentangling the effects of interoceptive exposure exercises in panic disorder

Eligibility Criteria

Inclusion

Inclusion Criteria:

  • Age 18-65 years old

  • Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition (DSM-IV)diagnosis of panic disorder, panic disorder with agoraphobia OR initial panic attacks

  • CGI ≥ 4 (except persons with initial panic attacks)

  • Informed Consent

Exclusion

Exclusion Criteria:

  • Acute suicidality

  • Current substance use disorder

  • Lifetime diagnosis of psychotic disorders, bipolar disorders, borderline personalitydisorders

  • Severe medical condition (chronic conditions)

  • Current psychotherapeutic or psychopharmacological treatment

Study Design

Total Participants: 180
Study Start date:
March 01, 2010
Estimated Completion Date:
May 31, 2012

Study Description

The study aims on investigating the effect of fear augmentation during in-vivo exposure by adding interoceptive exposure (e.g., hyperventilation) in PD/AG patients. By comparing the fear augmentation group with the therapist-guided CBT exposure, and by measuring autonomic arousal during and between exposure sessions, it will be possible to study the mechanisms of exposure based learning. A second aim is to disentangle effects of specific interoceptive exposure exercises (e.g., respiratory vs. vestibular stimulation). Finally, by including patients without agoraphobic avoidance it will be possible to investigate whether interoceptive exposure alone will have any effect. This might open the door for early interventions for individuals after experiencing an initial panic attack to prevent the development of a severe panic disorder with agoraphobic avoidance.

Connect with a study center

  • Prof. Dr. Alfons Hamm

    Greifswald, 17489
    Germany

    Active - Recruiting

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