Alcohol and substance abuse in panic disorder
Marshall, J.R.
Journal of Clinical Psychiatry 58(Suppl): 46-49; Discussion 49-50
1997
ISSN/ISBN: 0160-6689 PMID: 9078994 Document Number: 472737
The relationship between panic disorder and alcohol and substance abuse is well known but not clearly understood. Various theories have been proposed to explain the increased comorbidity of these two disorders. Patients may be self-medicating for anxiety symptoms or be genetically predisposed to this dual diagnosis. Whatever the cause, patients with panic disorder who abuse alcohol or other substances require careful attention from the clinician. To effectively treat the patient, both conditions must be taken into account when formulating a treatment plan.