NCT05427708 · University of Texas at Austin
Respiratory Training in the Treatment of Transdiagnostic Pathological Anxiety
What this study is about
Purpose of the Research: The primary aim of the proposed study is to conduct a randomly assigned parallel-group 2-treatment group$1 clinical trial investigating capnometry-guided respiratory intervention (CGRI) for pathological anxiety. CGRI aims to raise end-tidal CO2 levels thereby lowering hyperventilation-induced respiratory alkalosis and its associated fear-eliciting somatic reactions.
View original scientific description
Purpose of the Research: The primary aim of the proposed study is to conduct a randomized parallel-group 2-arm clinical trial investigating capnometry-guided respiratory intervention (CGRI) for pathological anxiety. CGRI aims to raise end-tidal CO2 levels thereby lowering hyperventilation-induced respiratory alkalosis and its associated fear-eliciting somatic reactions. Psycho-education about anxiety and its effects (PsyEd) will serve as a credible control comparator.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Clinically elevated anxiety as indicated by an eight or higher on the Overall Anxiety Severity and Impairment Scale (OASIS).
- Meets DSM-5 criteria for one or more of the following anxiety or trauma-related disorders as their "primary" mental disorder:
- Generalized Anxiety Disorder
- Panic Disorder
- Health Anxiety
- Agoraphobia
- Social Anxiety Disorder
- Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
- Acute Stress Disorder
- Adjustment Disorder with primary anxious mood
- Anxiety disorder not otherwise specified
- No current use of psychotropic medications or stable on current medications for at least 6 weeks
- Able to arrange transportation to our laboratory for study appointments.
- Fluent in English.
Exclusion criteria
- No history of medical conditions that would contraindicate participation in fear-provocation or respiratory challenges, including:
- Cardiovascular or respiratory disorders
- High blood pressure
- History of fainting
- Pregnant or lactating
- Not currently receiving other psychological treatment for anxiety.
- No history of a suicide attempt within the past 6 months.
- No history of psychosis within the past 6 months.
- No history of moderate to severe alcohol or substance use disorder (with the exception of nicotine) within the past 3 months.
- Does not endorse COVID-19 symptoms during the screening phase.
Where
- Austin, Texas
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Aug 24, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations