Pharmacotherapy in post-traumatic stress disorder: evidence from randomized controlled trials

Abstract

This review discusses evidence-based pharmacotherapies for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The epidemiology of PTSD and its phenomenological characteristics are summarized. Focus is placed on the major classes of drugs for which at least a minimum of evidence-based outcome data are available from randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Drugs for the total symptom constellation of the disorder, specific PTSD symptoms, such as nightmares, and prevention of PTSD development post-trauma, are discussed. Where appropriate, RCT methodological problems that limit the conclusions drawn are discussed. In addition, recommendations for research to fill critical gaps in the knowledge of PTSD treatment are offered.