Interventions for generalized anxiety disorder

source extracted confidence: high 2026-04-09
#humans #quetiapine-fumarate #covid-19 #anxiety-disorders #antidepressive-agents

Interventions for generalized anxiety disorder

Byrne et al., 2023 | Curr Opin Psychiatry | Systematic Review

Citation

Byrne Gerard J. Interventions for generalized anxiety disorder. Curr Opin Psychiatry. 2023-Mar-01;36(2):134-139. doi:10.1097/YCO.0000000000000840

Abstract

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: To provide an overview of recently published work on anxiety, focusing on generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and its treatment. RECENT FINDINGS: Self-reported anxiety symptoms were highly prevalent during the COVID-19 global pandemic in both the general population and in selected groups. There remains divided opinion about whether internet-based cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is noninferior to face-to-face CBT for GAD. A systematic review of drug treatment for GAD showed efficacy for selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), agomelatine, and quetiapine. There may be a place for repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation in the treatment of GAD. There was some evidence of efficacy for complementary therapies, including physical exercise, yoga, acupuncture, and Withania somnifera (ashwagandha). However, a systematic review of cannabidiol and tetrahydrocannabinol found insufficient evidence of efficacy in anxiety disorders. SUMMARY: Antidepressants and quetiapine show efficacy in the treatment of GAD. Internet-based psychological interventions have a place in the treatment of GAD when face-to-face treatment is inaccessible. There is increasing evidence for the use of physical exercise in the management of GAD. Some other complementary therapies, including cannabinoids, require further, methodologically sound, research.

Key Findings

Self-reported anxiety symptoms were highly prevalent during the COVID-19 global pandemic in both the general population and in selected groups. There remains divided opinion about whether internet-based cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is noninferior to face-to-face CBT for GAD. A systematic review of drug treatment for GAD showed efficacy for selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), agomelatine, and quetiapine. There may be a place for repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation in

Outcomes Measured

  • anxiety

Population

Field Value
Population See abstract
Sample Size See abstract
Age Range See abstract
Condition anxiety

MeSH Terms

  • Humans
  • Quetiapine Fumarate
  • COVID-19
  • Anxiety Disorders
  • Antidepressive Agents
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Evidence Classification

  • Level: Systematic Review
  • Publication Types: Systematic Review, Journal Article
  • Vertical: ashwagandha

Provenance

Source extracted via PubMed E-utilities API on 2026-04-09