Targeting fear memory by disrupting the process of memory reconsolidation: A new intervention for panic disorder.

INTERVENTION: Trade Name: Propranolol HCl Pharmaceutical Form: Capsule Pharmaceutical form of the placebo: Capsule Route of administration of the placebo: Oral use CONDITION: Panic disorder Therapeutic area: Psychiatry and Psychology [F] ‐ Mental Disorders [F03] PRIMARY OUTCOME: Main Objective: Our study will test whether a single intervention of fear memory reactivation (35% C02 inhalation) followed by the intake of a beta‐aderenergic blocker (40 mg propranolol HCl) reduces panic disorder symptoms. Primary end point(s): Absence of panic disorder diagnosis according to DSM‐V (clinical interview) and a significant reduction in panic disorder symptoms (questionnaire) Secondary Objective: Not applicable Timepoint(s) of evaluation of this end point: Three months post‐treatment SECONDARY OUTCOME: Secondary end point(s): 1 Willingness to inhale 35% C02; 2 A significant reduction in negative cognitive appraisals of panic; 3 A significant reduction in agoraphobic avoidance; 4 A significant reduction in panic‐related bodily symptoms; 5 A significant reduction in anxious thoughts related to panic attacks and agoraphobic avoidance; 6 Absence of panic disorder diagnosis according to DSM‐V; 7 A significant reduction in panic disorder symptoms Timepoint(s) of evaluation of this end point: 1 Three months post‐treatment; 2 One week, three months, six months and one year post‐treatment; 3 One week, three months, six months and one year post‐treatment; 4 One week, three months, six months and one year post‐treatment; 5 One week, three months, six months and one year post‐treatment; 6 Six months and one year post‐treatment; 7 One week, six months and one year post‐treatment INCLUSION CRITERIA: ‐ Aged between 18 and 65 years ‐ A primary diagnosis of panic disorder according to DSM‐V ‐ Written approval of an independent physician for participation Are the trial subjects under 18? no Number of subjects for this age range: F.1.2 Adults (18‐64 years) yes F.1.2.1 Number of subjects for this age range 60 F.1.3 Elderly (>=65 years) no F.1.3.1 Number of subjects for this age range