Study: Tuberculosis Antibiotic Nasal Spray May Alleviate Social Anxiety
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}A nasal spray containing an antibiotic used to treat tuberculosis may help people get over their fear of public speaking and socializing, according to a study published in Britain’s Telegraph.
The spray, which contains the antibiotic D-Cycloserine (DCS), can reduce symptoms of chronic social phobias, according to psychologists at the University of New South Wales.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}Researchers asked 23 people who suffered from social anxieties to make a speech following a small dose of the DCS and compared the data of patients who gave a speech without having any treatment.
"These people were so shy they could not enter a crowded room or speak in public," said Dr. Adam Guastella, a psychologist at the university. "However, those who received DCS showed a great reduction in fear and also reported lasting improvements in work and social relationships."