May 15, 2006

(SACRAMENTO, Calif.) — Patients are needed for a UC Davis study that seeks to advance the understanding of the physiological causes of panic disorder.

The study, supported by a grant from the National Institutes of Health and led by Richard Maddock, UC Davis professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences, will study brain function in patients with panic disorder before and after treatment. The study uses functional magnetic resonance imaging and magnetic resonance spectroscopy to measure the brain responses associated with sensations and emotions. To qualify for the study, patients must be between 18 and 50 and not be taking medications for panic disorder. At the beginning of the study, the subjects will receive a brain scan, followed by 12 weeks treatment using medication with or without psychotherapy. After 12 weeks, they will receive a second brain scan.

About one in 40 Americans suffer from severe panic attacks that occur for no obvious reason. Symptoms include intense anxiety, difficult breathing, pounding heart, dizziness, nausea, sweating and chest pain. Maddock specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of anxiety disorders. Patients who suffer from anxiety disorders and who have HMO insurance may be eligible for treatment at this clinic, whether or not they participate in the study.

To find out more about the study, call (916) 734-7732. To find out more about the psychiatry outpatient clinic, call (916) 734-3574.