Pharmacological and Psychotherapeutic Interventions in the Treatment of Generalized Anxiety Disorder
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is a chronic psychiatric condition characterized by excessive worry, autonomic hyperactivity, and significant functional impairment. The objective of this study is to critically review pharmacological and psychotherapeutic interventions in the management of GAD, addressing first-line therapies, complementary alternatives, and factors that influence adherence and clinical outcomes. This is a narrative literature review based on searches in the PubMed database using the search terms “anxiety disorders” and “Therapeutics.” Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and selective serotonin or norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs/SNRIs) are established as first-line gold-standard interventions. Secondary options such as buspirone and pregabalin are useful in specific scenarios, while the use of benzodiazepines should be restricted to acute episodes. Complementary interventions, such as cannabidiol and beta-blockers, lack robust evidence to support their routine use. It is concluded that therapeutic success in GAD requires an individualized, continuous, and multidisciplinary approach, combining structured psychotherapies and appropriate pharmacological support.
Authors: Diego Luiz Leonel Guedes, Luiza Leal de Faria Garcia, Claudio Hiroto Kitamura Júnior, Jackeline Driely Pinho Romanovski, Kamilla Fernanda Valin Vieira, Isabela Gomes Basilio, Bianca Sarah Barros Nascimento, Wilson Coelho Rodrigues, Giulia Montagnana Garcia, Lucas Ventura Zanfolim, Lara Julia Evangelista Mineiro, Tássia Cecília Pereira Guimarães
Language: English
Subfield: Experimental and Cognitive Psychology
Field: Psychology
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7223915224