The study hypothesis is that quetiapine XR has anxiolytic properties. The study aims to
investigate the putative anxiolytic properties of quetiapine XR in patients with anxiety
disorders. Therefore, in a proof-of-concept design patients with simple phobia will be
selected to investigate specific anxiolytic and antipanic activity during acute anxiety.
Moreover, in a combined fMRI/visual stimulus presentation paradigm activity of fear-network
associated brain structures such as the amygdala will be investigated under treatment with
quetiapine XR or placebo. Additionally, genetic factors potentially mediating anxiolytic
properties of quetiapine will be studied.