Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 23, 2026

Simultaneous Application of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation during Virtual Reality Exposure
Published on: January 18, 2021
Post-traumatic stress disorder: emerging concepts of pharmacotherapy
Dewleen G Baker1, Caroline M Nievergelt, Victoria B Risbrough
1Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive (0603V), La Jolla, California 92093, USA. dgbaker@ucsd.edu
Abstract:
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can result from a traumatic experience that elicits emotions of fear, helpless or horror. Most individuals remain asymptomatic or symptoms quickly resolve, but in a minority intrusive imagery and nightmares, emotional numbing and avoidance, and hyperarousal persist for decades. PTSD is associated with psychiatric and medical co-morbidities, increased risk for suicide, and with poor social and occupational functioning. Psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy are common treatments. Whereas, research supports the efficacy of the cognitive behavioral psychotherapies, there is insufficient evidence to unequivocally support the efficacy of any specific pharmacotherapy. Proven effective pharmacologic agents are sorely needed to treat core and targeted PTSD symptoms, and for prevention. This review describes current and emerging pharmacotherapies that advance these goals.
Related Concept Videos
Post-traumatic Stress Disorder
Symptoms and Behavioral Manifestations
A spectrum of distressing symptoms characterizes PTSD. Recurrent flashbacks, where individuals involuntarily relive traumatic events, are a...
Drug Therapy
Antianxiety Medications
Psychosis: Goals of Pharmacotherapy
Introduction to Stress and Lifestyle
Panic Disorder
Psychological Responses to Stress