A 30-year-old woman with Social Anxiety Disorder (Social Phobia) is unable to tolerate SSRIs due to gastrointestinal side effects. Which alternative FDA-approved pharmacotherapy is most appropriate for long-term management?
- A Venlafaxine ER (SNRI) ✓
- B Phenelzine (MAOI)
- C Clonazepam (benzodiazepine)
- D Atenolol (beta-blocker)
Explanation
Venlafaxine ER (SNRI) has FDA approval for Social Anxiety Disorder and is the most appropriate alternative to SSRIs for long-term maintenance when SSRIs are not tolerated. While MAOIs like phenelzine are highly effective for social anxiety, their dietary restrictions and interaction risks make them third-line. Benzodiazepines (clonazepam) provide short-term relief but are not recommended for chronic use due to dependence risk. Beta-blockers (atenolol, propranolol) are useful for performance anxiety (situational use) but lack evidence for generalised social anxiety disorder.
Reference: Kaplan & Sadock's Synopsis of Psychiatry, 11th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.