Researchers Find a Way to Reduce Symptoms of Chronic PTSD
Toronto, ON (PRWEB) April 28, 2014 -- Treatment for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) typically involves a combination of cognitive behavioural therapy, psychotherapy, and pharmacotherapy. Researchers at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York recently published a study about a rapidly acting treatment for PTSD.
The study, first published online on April 16, 2014 in JAMA Psychiatry is called “Efficacy of Intravenous Ketamine for Treatment of Chronic Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder- A randomized Clinical Trial”.
PTSD affects a broad spectrum of people, from first line responders (police, paramedics, firefighters, military) to victims of assault and those who have witnessed catastrophic events. PTSD can cause depression, flashbacks, nightmares, difficulty sleeping, difficulty concentrating, irritability and feelings of guilt or shame.
The Mount Sinai study focused on people with Chronic PTSD. It was noted that few anti-depressant medications had been effective at treating PTSD. The study found that IV-administered Ketamine had rapid effects on symptoms of PTSD compared to standard anti-depressants.
Ketamine is a medication typically used as an anesthetic, but is also safe for use as an analgesic at lower doses. Ketamine has also in recent times been tried as an option for treatment-resistant depression, which is why the researchers in this particular study hypothesized that ketamine could be used to improve core PTSD symptoms levels with a single IV dose.
The study participants were assessed 24 hours after ketamine infusion and were assessed with the Impact of Event Scale-Revised (IES-R). Total IES-R scores were significantly improved with ketamine, and symptoms remained significantly reduced two weeks after infusion.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder is a chronic condition that can interfere with a person’s ability to work. Psychological claims for long term disability can include claims for depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder.
If you experience psychological difficulties which are preventing you from performing your job duties, you may consider making a claim for long-term disability benefits. If you have questions about applying for long-term disability benefits, or your claim has been denied, be sure to contact an experienced lawyer who can advise you of your rights.
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