Anti-anxiety agents: A pharmacoepidemiological review

The purpose of this review is to broaden the base for informed policy and to identify research issues to improve the utility of anti-anxiety agents. Data quality is discussed and the prevalence of morbid anxiety and the exposure to treatment with, and abuse of, anti-anxiety agents in different populations is presented. Findings concerning undertreatment, quality of life and misdiagnosing are also discussed. Based on the findings of this review, controlled studies of anti-anxiety treatments in anxious patients with cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus or other chronic somatic conditions should be prioritised. These are likely to show substantial and vital benefits by not only controlling symptoms and improving coping capacity, but also by improving social functioning and somatic disease management. Investing in improved detection and management of patients with anxious and/or depressive disorders in many forms of care will pay rapid direct and indirect dividends. Copyright (C) 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.