Cortisol in the Treatment of Phobias

The Efficacy of Cortisol in Combination With Behavioral Therapy in the Treatment of Phobias

The aim of this prospective, double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized study is to investigate if glucocorticoid treatment, in combination with exposure therapy, helps to reduce phobic fear in patients with phobia.

Inclusion Criteria:

- Female and male patients with a specific phobia (fear of heights) according to DSM-IV criteria.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Severe acute or chronic somatic diseases
• Psychiatric disorder other than specific phobia
• Topic glucocorticoid therapy (for large skin parts)
• Inhaled glucocorticoids
• Psychotropic medication
• Pregnancy