Successful treatment of PTSD requires a combination of psychotherapy—aimed at desensitizing the individual to the traumatic experience—and medication. A recent study in Behavior Research and Therapy found that eight to 12 sessions of cognitive-behavioral therapy (involving desensitization and progressive muscle relaxation) was better at reducing post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms than supportive therapy.
Two SSRIs have been approved by the FDA for treating posttraumatic stress disorder: Zoloft and Paxil. The tricyclics amitriptyline and Norpramin are commonly used to treat the mood disturbances and anxiety that accompany the disorder.
