Abstract

MUNOZ CORTES, Harold  and  LOZANO CORTES, Lyda Marcela. Pharmacological Treatment of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Nightmares. rev.colomb.psiquiatr. [online]. 2009, vol.38, n.2, pp.325-337. ISSN 0034-7450.

Introduction: Nightmares are common and characteristic symptoms of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTST). Their presence is directly related with the severity of the disorder, usually having a negative impact on the patient’s quality of life. They frequently become a refractory and residual symptom, and require special attention and specific treatment. Objective: To review and update current knowledge on the pharmacological treatment available for PTSD nightmares. Conclusion: Very few studies have been done addressing the pharmacological treatment for PTSD nightmares. Most have an open design or are case reports, the samples have been small with heterogeneous groups, and some of the results have been contradictory. Psychotherapy, then, acquires great relevance in the treatment of nightmares, since although no studies exist that show the superiority of one modality over another (pharmacotherapy versus psychotherapy), clinical experience shows that the combination is beneficial for patients.

Keywords : Nightmares; posttraumatic stress disorders; pharmacotherapy.

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