Effects of psychotropic drugs used in the treatment of anxiety disorders on the recognition of facial expressions of emotion: Critical analysis of literature

Author(s)

Viana Sabino, Alini Danieli ; Chagas, Marcos Hortes N. ; Osorio, Flavia L.

• Document type: Review article
• Source: NEUROSCIENCE AND BIOBEHAVIORAL REVIEWS; v. 71, p. 802-809, DEC 2016.
• Web of Science Citations: 4

Abstract

Deficits in recognition of facial expressions of emotion (RFEE) play a central role in the manifestation of anxiety disorders (AD). We systematically reviewed the literature to determine effects of drugs used in AD treatment on RFEE, based on outcomes of accuracy rate, reaction time, and intensity. Electronic databases, including Pubmed, PsycINFO, and Scielo, were used without time constraints. Twenty-six clinical/experimental studies on healthy subjects, focusing on 11 drugs, published in English, Portuguese, and Spanish, were selected. We found that increased recognition of happiness was associated with acute use of citalopram, fluoxetine, duloxetine, and reboxetine. Increased and decreased recognition of negative emotions were associated with the use of selective serotonin and/or norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, respectively. Benzodiazepine favored recognition of negative emotions. Differences in reaction time were rarely observed. Stimuli with distinct emotion intensities produced similar effects. Specific changes occurred in RFEE depending on the drug, its administration route and dose, and emotion valence. Evidences indicate significant effects on emotional processing relevant to clinical practice, particularly in treating patients with emotional disorders. (C) 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 15/02848-2 - Social and music performance anxiety: acute effects of oxytocin and Ayahuasca in voice, recognition of facial expressions,clinical and cognitive symptoms
• Grantee: Flávia de Lima Osório
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants