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Sertraline as a treatment for PTSD: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  13 June 2014

Paul Mooney
Affiliation:
Forensic Mental Health Research Unit, Rampton Hospital, Retford, Nottinghamshire DN22 OPD, England
Janette Oakley
Affiliation:
Forensic Mental Health Research Unit, Rampton Hospital, Retford, Nottinghamshire DN22 OPD, England
Michael Ferriter
Affiliation:
Forensic Mental Health Research Unit, Rampton Hospital, Retford, Nottinghamshire DN22 OPD, England
Raymond Travers
Affiliation:
Forensic Mental Health Research Unit, Rampton Hospital, Retford, Nottinghamshire DN22 OPD, England

Abstract

Objective: Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is one of the most prevalent psychological disorders. Methods to alleviate its symptoms range from ‘talking therapies’ to pharmaceutical interventions. Our objective was to carry out a systematic review of the effectiveness of sertraline, an SSRI, as a treatment for PTSD.

Method: Databases were searched to identify relevant research on sertraline as a treatment for PTSD.

Results: Five randomised control trials were identified, along with seven open trials and case series studies.

Conclusions: The review and meta-analysis supported the use of sertraline for PTSD though further research on sub-group differences (eg. gender) is required.

Type
Reviews
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 2004

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