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PTSD medications and treatments

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PTSD medications and treatments
Medications are nearly always used in conjunction with psychotherapy for PTSD, because while medications may treat some of the symptoms commonly associated with the disorder, they will not relieve a person of the flashbacks or feelings associated with the original trauma. If one is receiving a medication from a general practitioner or their doctor, they should seek a psychotherapy referral in addition to the prescription.
Medications:

A. Antidepressants

fluoxetine (Prozac) sertraline (Zoloft) paroxetine (Paxil)
Venlafaxine

Research shows that these medications help reduce anxiety, panic and depression associated with people with PTSD. These types of antidepressants may also help reduce aggression, impulsivity, and suicidal thoughts as well.
Antidepressants that work through other neurotransmitter combinations or through different mechanisms for altering serotonin neurotransmission are also helpful in PTSD. Venlafaxine acts primarily as a serotonin reuptake inhibitor at lower dosages and as a combined serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor at higher dosages. It is now a recommended first-line treatment for PTSD.

B. Antipsychotics

The most common alternative to antidepressants are the atypical antipsychotics. risperidone (Risperdal) olanzapine (Zyprexa) quetiapine (Seroquel)

Antipsychotic medicines seem to be most useful in the treatment of PTSD in those who suffer from agitation, dissociation, hyper vigilance, intense suspiciousness (paranoia), or brief breaks in being in touch with reality (brief psychotic reactions).

C. Mood Stabilizers & Benzodiazepines

Other less directly effective but nevertheless potentially helpful medications for managing PTSD include mood stabilizers. lamotrigine (Lamictal) tiagabine (Gabitril) divalproex sodium (Depakote

Medicines that help decrease the physical symptoms associated with PTSD include drugs such as clonidine (Catapres) guaneficine (Tenex)
propranolol
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