Alpha-2 receptor agonists for the treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder

Drugs In Context

Thomas L Schwartz¹  Molly R Belkin¹ 

关键词: adrenergic alpha-2 receptor agonists;    anxiety disorders;    clonidine;    guanfacine;    humans;    posttraumatic;    stress disorders;    sympathetic nervous system;    treatment outcome;   

DOI  :  10.7573/dic.212286

学科分类：医学（综合）

来源: C S F Medical Communications Ltd.

【 摘 要 】

Abstract Clonidine and guanfacine are alpha-2 receptor agonists that decrease sympathetic outflow from the central nervous system. Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is an anxiety disorder that is theorized to be related to a hyperactive sympathetic nervous system. Currently, the only US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved medications for PTSD are the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) sertraline and paroxetine. Sometimes use of the SSRIs may not lead to full remission and symptoms of hyperarousal often persist. This article specifically reviews the literature on alpha-2 receptor agonist use for the treatment of PTSD and concludes that while the evidence base is limited, these agents might be considered useful when SSRIs fail to treat symptoms of agitation and hyperarousal in patients with PTSD.

【 授权许可】

Unknown