Antibiotics Increase Effectiveness of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Social Anxiety Disorder

Dr. Adam Guastella of the Brain and Mind Research Institute at the University of Sydney might be considered a pioneer in the treatment of social anxiety disorder (SAD). Guastella is currently conducting a study to evaluate the effectiveness of d-Cycloserine (DCS), an antibiotic commonly used to treat tuberculosis, when administered along with cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) in the treatment of SAD. Previous research by Guastella shows that patients given DCS prior to therapy show greater and faster improvement than those given a placebo.

Guastella's work seems to coincide with a shift toward novel methods of enhancing SAD treatment - most notably the use of oxytocin. What do you think about these new methods? Would you prefer taking an antibiotic or nasal spray over traditional medications such as SSRIs? My guess is that both traditional medications and new methods will have their place in the treatment of SAD. The good news is that there will be more options.