In a double-blind randomized trial, 120 patients suffering from acute anxiety states received treatment for two weeks with bromazepam 3 mg, bromazepam 6 mg or diazepam 5 mg, each given three times daily. A shortened Hamilton anxiety rating scale showed similar and significant improvement with all three regimens. However, a global rating scale showed that, in the physicians' opinion, the lower dose of bromazepam was preferred. Its use was associated with the lowest incidence of adverse reactions and best dosage compliance. A twice daily administration of bromazepam may offer further advantage, as may a lower unit dose.