Mindfulness-Based Intervention Reduces Anxiety in GAD Patients on Stable Pharmacotherapy

This randomized controlled trial evaluated the efficacy of an 8-week group-based Mindfulness-Based Intervention (MBI) adapted from Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy as an adjunct to ongoing pharmacotherapy in adults with DSM-5 Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD). The study included 106 participants who were on stable pharmacotherapy and compared MBI plus pharmacotherapy to structured psychoeducation plus pharmacotherapy.

The primary outcome was change in clinician-rated anxiety severity on the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAMA). The intervention group showed a significantly greater reduction in HAMA scores compared to the control group (absolute numbers: 18.6 vs. 22.5). However, the p-value was reported as truncated, and no effect size was provided, limiting the precision of the finding.

Secondary outcomes included self-reported anxiety (SAS), mindfulness skills (FFMQ), sleep quality (PSQI), negative cognitive bias (NCPBQ), and psychosocial functioning (GAF-M). Results for these outcomes were not reported in the available abstract.

Safety data, including adverse events, serious adverse events, discontinuations, and tolerability, were not reported. The study also did not specify the specific pharmacotherapy medications used, and key limitations were not described. The follow-up period was 8 weeks, which is relatively short.

Clinically, this trial suggests that adding a structured MBI may provide additional anxiety reduction for GAD patients already on medication. However, the truncated p-value, unreported effect size, and lack of safety data warrant cautious interpretation. Further research with longer follow-up and complete reporting is needed.