Clinical utility of the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors in the spectrum of anxiety

The selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are now being employed in the treatment of the full spectrum of anxiety, disorders. In comparative trials, the SSRIs are proving to be equal or superior in efficacy to traditional antianxiety medications. Due to their favorable side effect profile, safety, and tolerability, they are rapidly replacing older agents in the treatment of anxiety. Neuroanatomical pathways that may be important in the antianxiety effect of the SSRIs are outline and discussed followed by a review of the clinical evidence supporting the efficacy of this class of medications in the treatment of anxiety disorders. (C) 1998 Society of Biological Psychiatry.