Medications
The most effective medications for PTSD are a type of drug called Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs). SSRIs work by raising the level of serotonin in your brain. They were developed to treat depression and anxiety, so they can make you feel less sad and worried. And they can help with PTSD symptoms.
There are many different SSRIs available. The two that are currently approved by the FDA for PTSD are sertraline (Zoloft) and paroxetine (Paxil). Two other SSRIs that are also prescribed are citalopram (Celexa) and fluoxetine (Prozac).
Warning:
Sometimes, doctors prescribe medicines called "benzodiazepines" for people with PTSD. Some common benzodiazeines are
- alprazolam (Xanax)
- clonazepam (Klonopin)
- diazepam (Valium)
- lorazepam (Ativan)
These medicines are often given to people who have problems with anxiety. While they may be of some help at first, they do not treat the core PTSD symptoms. They also may lead to addiction, especially for people who have had problems with alcohol or drugs.
Benzodiazepines are not recommended for long-term PTSD treatment.
