Antidepressants in Panic Disorder: Clinical and Preclinical Mechanisms

Advances have been made in understanding the biology of panic disorder and the role of the underlyingserotonergic dysfunction. This review summarizes the biological evidence for the involvementof serotonin in the pathogenesis of panic disorder and considers the 2 opposing theories that are currentlyprevalent (5-HT excess and 5-HT deficit). The serotonin selective reuptake inhibitors are increasinglyconsidered as first-line treatment for panic disorder, and the interaction of these agents withthe serotonergic system is considered.