March 8, 2000

BIRMINGHAM, AL — UAB (University of Alabama at Birmingham) researchers are recruiting volunteers for a new clinical trial for panic disorder. The trial will attempt to see if two drugs, already approved for the treatment of other conditions, such as depression, will have a beneficial effect on panic attacks.

“We have strong reason to believe that these medications will be very effective in treating panic disorder,” said Dr. Carl Houck, assistant professor of psychiatry and the principal investigator in the trial. “One medication is a serotonin reuptake inhibitor, used for treatment of depression and obsessive compulsive disorder; and the second is in a class of drugs used for the treatment of partial seizures.”

The investigators are looking for individuals who have experienced panic attacks, but are not currently being treated for panic disorder. Participants must be over 18 years of age and in good overall health. Interested individuals can call (205) 934-2484 for more information.

According to the American Psychiatric Association, a panic attack — the core feature of panic disorder — is a period of intense fear or discomfort that strikes suddenly, often in familiar places where there is seemingly no reason to be afraid. Symptoms include a racing heart rate, sweating, shortness of breath, chest pain, faintness and numbness or tingling. The discomfort and sense of danger the attacks bring is so intense that people may think they are having a heart attack or stroke.