Update on Current Treatment Options for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder

Special Article

Psychiatry Investigation 2005;2(2):31-43.

Jeong-Min Song, MD1; and Jeong-Ho Chae, MD2;

¹;Keyo Medical Foundation, Keyo Hospital, Uiwang, ²;Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea

Abstract

This article reviews the various current treatment options of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), a prevalent and disabling condition. The primary-source literature was reviewed using PubMed search, and secondary-source review articles and chapters were also used. Evidence from several studies suggests that both psychopharmacologic and psychotherapeutic therapies can be effective in PTSD. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors are generally the most appropriate choice of first-line medication for PTSD, and effective pharmacotherapy should be continued for at least 12 months. Psychotherapy, especially cognitive behavior therapy, is found to be effective in the treatment of PTSD. In addition to those therapies, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy, and transcranial magnetic stimulation would be relatively new treatment options for PTSD.

Key words Trauma;History;Korea;Post-traumatic stress disorder.