For Generalised Anxiety Disorder, what is considered first-line pharmacotherapy?

For Generalised Anxiety Disorder, what is considered first-line pharmacotherapy?

• A. Benzodiazepines
• B. TCAs
• C. SSRIs
• D. Quetiapine

Answer: (C)

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors are the preferred first-line pharmacotherapy for generalized anxiety disorder because they reliably reduce anxiety symptoms over the long term while generally offering a favorable safety and tolerability profile for ongoing use. They help normalize the excessive worry and somatic symptoms with a lower risk of dependency compared to other options. Benzodiazepines can calm anxiety quickly but carry risks of dependence, withdrawal, and cognitive side effects, and they don’t address the underlying worry long-term. Tricyclic antidepressants have proven efficacy but come with more anticholinergic and cardiovascular side effects and a tougher side-effect burden. Quetiapine isn’t first-line for GAD due to metabolic risks and limited evidence for primary treatment, though it may be used in specific scenarios or comorbid conditions. So, starting with an SSRI such as sertraline, escitalopram, or paroxetine aligns with guidelines and typical practice for durable management.

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors are the preferred first-line pharmacotherapy for generalized anxiety disorder because they reliably reduce anxiety symptoms over the long term while generally offering a favorable safety and tolerability profile for ongoing use. They help normalize the excessive worry and somatic symptoms with a lower risk of dependency compared to other options. Benzodiazepines can calm anxiety quickly but carry risks of dependence, withdrawal, and cognitive side effects, and they don’t address the underlying worry long-term. Tricyclic antidepressants have proven efficacy but come with more anticholinergic and cardiovascular side effects and a tougher side-effect burden. Quetiapine isn’t first-line for GAD due to metabolic risks and limited evidence for primary treatment, though it may be used in specific scenarios or comorbid conditions. So, starting with an SSRI such as sertraline, escitalopram, or paroxetine aligns with guidelines and typical practice for durable management.