Use of the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor citalopram in the treatment of generalized social phobia

Background: There is increasing evidence that social phobia responds to treatment with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). However, the efficacy of citalopram, the most selective of the SSRIs, in social phobia has not been well documented. Methods: Citalopram was used on an open-label naturalistic basis in 22 social phobia patients presenting for treatment (40 mg daily for 12 weeks). Patients were rated with the Liebowitz Social Anxiety Scale and the Clinical Global Impressions (CGI) scale. Results: Ratings on the Liebowitz Social Anxiety Scale and the CGI were significantly improved after treatment. A total of 86% of patients were responders at week 12. Limitation: Open, uncontrolled study. Conclusions: Citalopram appears to be effective in the treatment of social phobia. A controlled trial is warranted to confirm these data. The role of serotonin in social phobia deserves further study.