This is a protocol for a Cochrane Review (Intervention). The objectives are as follows:

1) To provide an estimate of the overall effects of the medication in improving treatment response and reducing symptom severity in the treatment of anxiety disorders in patients with comorbid alcohol dependence.

2) To determine whether particular medications are more effective and tolerable than others in the treatment of this population group.

3) To determine whether the efficacy and tolerability of medications in treating anxiety disorders is specific to particular anxiety disorders.

4) To identify which factors (clinical, methodological) predict response to pharmacotherapy.