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The Role of Serotonin in Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: Neurobiology and Pharmacotherapy

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  07 November 2014

Kathryn M. Connor  and
Jonathan R.T. Davidson
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Abstract

Much attention has been given to the role of catecholamine dysfunction in posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and only recently have researchers begun to focus on serotonin (5-HT) in PTSD. Serotonin appears to be a factor in responses followin extreme stress, such as those that precede PTSD. In this review, the authors provide a brief overview of the concept of PTSD and specific issues of clinical concern. The role 5-HT in the neurobiology of PTSD is explored in a review of animal model studies and of clinical investigations of paroxetine binding, pharmacologic challenges, and neuroimaging. Data on the use of 5-HT in PTSD treatment are provided in a review of both open-label and controlled studies of serotonergically active drugs.

Type
Supplement Monograph
Information
CNS Spectrums , Volume 3 , Issue S2: Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: The Hidden Epidemic of Modern Times , August 1998 , pp. 42 - 51
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 1998

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