TAPS (CLOSED)

Study Information

Have you ever wondered if you could control your anxiety symptoms without the help of medications?

If so, the TAPS study might be right for you. Though serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SRIs) may help many people manage anxiety symptoms, there are a variety of reasons individuals may like to discontinue the use of this medication. Our patients tell us some of these reasons include:

• Sexual side effects.
• Weight gain.
• Cost.
• A desire to see if they can stay well off medication.
• Pregnancy or the desire to become pregnant.
  
  

Our past research shows us that many patients come off SRIs with little impact on their symptoms. We are interested in learning if our program can help patients safely and successfully accomplish this by using a slow taper design and by monitoring patients’ symptoms weekly throughout the treatment.

What is the Purpose of the TAPS Study?

The TAPS Study evaluates two supportive programs designed to help individuals with panic disorder (PD), social anxiety disorder (SAD), and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) safely come off long-term medication frequently prescribed for these disorders.

In this study we focus on one type of medication, serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SRIs), which include: Anafranil (clomipramine), Prozac (fluoxetine), Paxil (paroxetine), Lexapro (escitalopram), Celexa (citalopram), Luvox (fluvoxamine), Zoloft (sertraline), Effexor (venlafaxine), and Cymbalta (duloxetine).

Eligibility Criteria

Adults with panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, or generalized anxiety disorder who wish to stop taking long-term (2 years or more) SRI medication may be eligible to participate.

Compensation/Reimbursement

• A comprehensive assessment of their symptoms.
• One of two 22-week programs designed to support individuals coming off SRI medication.
• Seven biweekly medication management sessions with an experienced study psychiatrist.
• Compensation for time spent completing study assessments (up to $150 for full participation).

More Information/FAQ

How do I know if this study is appropriate for me?

In order to see if this study is a good match for you, our research staff will conduct a complete evaluation. First, study staff will talk with you on the phone. If it appears that the study may be a good fit for you, we will invite you in for an in person interview.

Should I talk to my doctor before I start this study?
Yes, in fact we will ask your permission to contact your current treatment provider to discuss your care. We will also explain this study to your provider to make sure it’s a healthy choice for you.