The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved Zoloft, an antidepressant drug made by Pfizer, for acute and long-term treatment of social anxiety disorder, said the company.

In clinical trials involving more than 600 patients, Zoloft proved effective in reducing the anxiety, fear and avoidance behaviors experienced by people with social anxiety disorder, also known as a social phobia.

“Social anxiety disorder is the most common anxiety disorder in the United States. It affects work functioning, social relationships and also impairs quality of life,” said Cathryn Clary, MD, Senior Medical Director, Pfizer Inc. “Zoloft’s demonstrated efficacy in both acute and long-term treatment provides an important new option for people suffering from this disorder.

(via HealthScoutNews)