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You are here : 3-RX.com > Medical Encyclopedia > Diseases and Conditions > Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: Treatment & Monitoring
      Category : Health Centers > Mental Health (Mental Disorders)

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Alternate Names : PTSD, Posttraumatic Stress Syndrome

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder | Symptoms & Signs | Diagnosis & Tests | Prevention & Expectations | Treatment & Monitoring

What are the treatments for the condition?

Treatment of PTSD can help reduce symptoms in some individuals. Cognitive-behavioral therapy helps the individual change perceptions and attitudes about the trauma. Group therapy can be helpful, especially if others in the group suffered the same trauma. Exposure therapy allows the person to repeatedly relive the frightening experience under controlled conditions. This can help him or her work through the trauma.

People with PTSD often need treatment for depression or substance abuse. This needs to occur before measures directed at decreasing symptoms of PTSD can be effective.

Medicines used to treat PTSD include the following:

  • anticonvulsants, such as gabapentin
  • azaspirones, such as buspirone
  • benzodiazepines, such as alprazolam or lorazepam
  • beta-blockers, such as propanolol or atenolol
  • MAO inhibitors, such as phenelazine
  • SSRIs, such as paroxetine or sertraline
  • tricyclic antidepressants, such as amitriptyline
  • What are the side effects of the treatments?

    Medicines used to treat PTSD can cause drowsiness, stomach upset, and allergic reactions.

    What happens after treatment for the condition?

    Chronic PTSD often persists for years. It usually becomes less intense and bothersome as time passes.

    How is the condition monitored?

    PTSD is monitored with regular visits to the healthcare provider. Blood tests may be done periodically to measure levels of medicines. Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider.


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    Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: Prevention & Expectations

     

    Author: Ann Reyes, Ph.D.
    Reviewer: Gail Hendrickson, RN, BS
    Date Reviewed: 08/20/01



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