We are investigating SEP-225441, a GABAA agonist, as a treatment for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and panic disorder. We believe that SEP-225441 has the potential to treat these disorders without the sedation that is typically associated with agonists of the GABA complex. SEP-225441 is currently in Phase II for the treatment of GAD.
Panic Disorder
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, panic disorder is characterized by sudden attacks of terror that are typically accompanied by a pounding heart, sweatiness, weakness, faintness or dizziness and usually produce a sense of unreality, fear of impending doom, or fear of losing control. An estimated 6 million American adults suffer from panic disorder.1
Generalized Anxiety Disorder
GAD is diagnosed when a person worries excessively about a variety of everyday problems for at least six months.2 GAD is estimated to affect 6.8 million Americans.1
1. Kessler RC, Chiu WT, Demler O, Walters EE. Prevalence, severity, and comorbidity of twelve-month DSM-IV disorders in the National Comorbidity Survey Replication (NCS-R). Archives of General Psychiatry, 2005 Jun;62(6):617-27.
2. Kendler KS, Neale MC, Kessler RC, et al. Generalized anxiety disorder in women. A population-based twin study. Archives of General Psychiatry, 1992; 49(4): 267-72.