Accepted for/Published in: Journal of Medical Internet Research
Date Submitted: May 29, 2020
Date Accepted: Jan 17, 2021
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Treating panic on the go: Results of a randomized controlled trial evaluating a hybrid online training for panic disorder and agoraphobia
ABSTRACT
Background:
Previous studies provide evidence for the effectiveness of web-based interventions for panic disorder with and without agoraphobia (PD). Smartphone-based technologies hold significant potential for further enhancing accessibility and efficacy of such interventions.
Objective:
The aim of the present randomized controlled trial (RCT) was to evaluate the efficacy of a guided hybrid online training based on cognitive behavior therapy for adults suffering from PD symptoms.
Methods:
Participants (N=92) with total scores in the Panic- and Agoraphobia Scale (PAS) ranging from 9 to 28 were recruited from the general population and allocated either to a hybrid intervention (GET.ON Panic) or to a wait-list control group (WLC). The primary outcome was the reduction of panic symptoms as self-assessed with a web-based version of the PAS.
Results:
ANCOVA-based intention-to-treat analyses revealed a significantly stronger decrease in panic symptoms (F=9.77, p<0.01; d=0.66; 95% CI 0.24-1.08) in the intervention group compared with the WLC group at post-treatment. Comparisons between groups at the follow-up measures at 3 and 6 months yielded even stronger effects (3M-FU: F=17.40, p<0.001; d=0.89; 95% CI 0.46-1.31; 6M-FU: F=14.63, p<0.001; d=0.81; 95% CI 0.38-1.24).
Conclusions:
Hybrid online trainings may help reduce symptoms of PD and hence play an important part in improving health care for patients suffering from this debilitating disorder. Clinical Trial: German Clinical Trial Register DRKS00005223
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