New directions in the treatment of anxiety disorders

Despite significant advances in the treatment of anxiety disorders in recent times, limitations such as suboptimal efficacy, side effects and delay of clinical effect remain. Ongoing research conducted within the boundaries of the existing psychiatric nomenclature is producing real improvements in our understanding of these prevalent and impairing conditions. A broadening of our understanding of both classical and contemporary neurotransmitter systems, in addition to the disorder-specific knowledge base, is informing new directions for anxiety disorder treatments. This article reviews patent activity for anxiolytic compounds released since 2000 within both anxiety disorder-specific and neurotransmitter-specific contexts.