Escitalopram for Older Adults With Generalized Anxiety Disorder

Abstract

Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is the most common anxiety disorder in primary care^1,2 and is defined by chronic, difficult-to-control worry and anxiety. Related somatic and psychiatric symptoms include muscle tension, sleep disturbance, and fatigue. Individuals with GAD have poorer quality of life,³ with impairments in role functioning (encompassing social, occupational, and family functioning) on par with those observed in major depressive disorder and other common medical problems such as arthritis and diabetes.^4,5