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D-fenfluramine challenge in posttraumatic stress disorder
L L Davis1, D M Clark, G L Kramer
1VA Medical Center (116A), Tuscaloosa, AL 35404, USA.
Biological Psychiatry
|April 15, 1999
Summary
This study found that veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) have impaired serotonin function. Their lower prolactin response to d-fenfluramine suggests a central serotonin deficit in PTSD.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Catecholamines are implicated in posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) pathophysiology.
- Emerging research highlights serotonin's role in PTSD neuroregulation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the integrity of serotonin-mediated prolactin release in men with combat-induced PTSD.
- To assess the relationship between serotonin function and PTSD symptomatology.
Main Methods:
- Utilized d-fenfluramine, a serotonin-releasing agent and reuptake inhibitor.
- Measured prolactin release in response to d-fenfluramine in 8 men with PTSD and 8 healthy controls.
Main Results:
- PTSD subjects exhibited a significantly blunted prolactin response to d-fenfluramine compared to controls.
- The prolactin response was inversely correlated with PTSD symptom severity and aggression levels.
Conclusions:
- Findings indicate a central serotonin dysfunction in patients with PTSD.
- Reduced prolactin response to d-fenfluramine serves as a biomarker for this serotonin deficit.