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Swift KM, Thomas CL, Balkin TJ, Lowery-Gionta EG, Matson LM. Acute sleep interventions as an avenue for treatment of trauma-associated disorders. J Clin Sleep Med 2022; 18:2291-2312. [PMID: 35678060 PMCID: PMC9435330 DOI: 10.5664/jcsm.10074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2021] [Revised: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Scientific evidence that acute, posttrauma sleep disturbances (eg, nightmares and insomnia) can contribute significantly to the pathogenesis of trauma-induced disorders is compelling. Sleep disturbances precipitating from trauma are uniquely predictive of daytime posttrauma symptom occurrence and severity, as well as subsequent onset of mental health disorders, including post-traumatic stress disorder. Conversely, adequate sleep during the acute posttrauma period is associated with reduced likelihood of adverse mental health outcomes. These findings, which are broadly consistent with what is known about the role of sleep in the regulation of emotion, suggest that the acute posttrauma period constitutes a "window of opportunity" during which treatment of sleep disturbances may be especially effective for preventing or mitigating progression of aberrant psychophysiological processes. At this point, the weight of the scientific evidence supporting this possibility warrants initiation of clinical trials to confirm the benefits of targeted prophylactic sleep enhancement, and to establish treatment guidelines as appropriate. CITATION Swift KM, Thomas CL, Balkin TJ, Lowery-Gionta EG, Matson LM. Acute sleep interventions as an avenue for treatment of trauma-associated disorders. J Clin Sleep Med. 2022;18(9):2291-2312.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin M. Swift
- Medical Readiness Systems Biology, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, Maryland
| | - Connie L. Thomas
- Department of Sleep Medicine, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, Maryland
- Department of Psychiatry, Uniformed Services University of Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Thomas J. Balkin
- Behavioral Biology Branch, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, Maryland
| | - Emily G. Lowery-Gionta
- Behavioral Biology Branch, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, Maryland
| | - Liana M. Matson
- Behavioral Biology Branch, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, Maryland
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2
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Pharmacological Management of Nightmares Associated with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder. CNS Drugs 2022; 36:721-737. [PMID: 35688992 DOI: 10.1007/s40263-022-00929-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can be a chronic and disabling condition. Post-traumatic nightmares (PTNs) form a core component of PTSD and are highly prevalent in this patient population. Nightmares in PTSD have been associated with significant distress, functional impairment, poor health outcomes, and decreased quality of life. Nightmares in PTSD are also an independent risk factor for suicide. Nightmare cessation can lead to improved quality of life, fewer hospital admissions, lower healthcare costs, and reduced all-cause mortality. Effective treatment of nightmares is critical and often leads to improvement of other PTSD symptomatology. However, approved pharmacological agents for the treatment of PTSD have modest effects on sleep and nightmares, and may cause adverse effects. No pharmacological agent has been approved specifically for the treatment of PTNs, but multiple agents have been studied. This current narrative review aimed to critically appraise proven as well as novel pharmacological agents used in the treatment of PTNs. Evidence of varying quality exists for the use of prazosin, doxazosin, clonidine, tricyclic antidepressants, trazodone, mirtazapine, atypical antipsychotics (especially risperidone, olanzapine and quetiapine), gabapentin, topiramate, and cyproheptadine. Evidence does not support the use of venlafaxine, β-blockers, benzodiazepines, or sedative hypnotics. Novel agents such as ramelteon, cannabinoids, ketamine, psychedelic agents, and trihexyphenidyl have shown promising results. Large randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are needed to evaluate the use of these novel agents. Future research directions are identified to optimize the treatment of nightmares in patients with PTSD.
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3
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Osuch E, Ursano R, Li H, Webster M, Hough C, Fullerton C, Leskin G. Brain Environment Interactions: Stress, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, and the Need for a Postmortem Brain Collection. Psychiatry 2022; 85:113-145. [PMID: 35588486 DOI: 10.1080/00332747.2022.2068916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Stress, especially the extreme stress of traumatic events, can alter both neurobiology and behavior. Such extreme environmental situations provide a useful model for understanding environmental influences on human biology and behavior. This paper will review some of the evidence of brain alterations that occur with exposure to environmental stress. This will include recent studies using neuroimaging and will address the need for histological confirmation of imaging study results. We will review the current scientific approaches to understanding brain environment interactions, and then make the case for the collection and study of postmortem brain tissue for the advancement of our understanding of the effects of environment on the brain.Creating a brain tissue collection specifically for the investigation of the effects of extreme environmental stressors fills a gap in the current research; it will provide another of the important pieces to the puzzle that constitutes the scientific investigation of negative effects of environmental exposures. Such a resource will facilitate new discoveries related to the psychiatric illnesses of acute stress disorder and posttraumatic stress disorder, and can enable scientists to correlate structural and functional imaging findings with tissue abnormalities, which is essential to validate the results of recent imaging studies.
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Edinoff AN, Hegefeld TL, Petersen M, Patterson JC, Yossi C, Slizewski J, Osumi A, Cornett EM, Kaye A, Kaye JS, Javalkar V, Viswanath O, Urits I, Kaye AD. Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation for Post-traumatic Stress Disorder. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:701348. [PMID: 35711594 PMCID: PMC9193572 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.701348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a psychiatric disorder that causes significant functional impairment and is related to altered stress response and reinforced learned fear behavior. PTSD has been found to impact three functional networks in the brain: default mode, executive control, and salience. The executive control network includes the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) and lateral PPC. The salience network involves the anterior cingulate cortex, anterior insula, and amygdala. This latter network has been found to have increased functional connectivity in PTSD. Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a technique used in treating PTSD and involves stimulating specific portions of the brain through electromagnetic induction. Currently, high-frequency TMS applied to the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) is approved for use in treating major depressive disorder (MDD) in patients who have failed at least one medication trial. In current studies, high-frequency stimulation has been shown to be more effective in PTSD rating scales posttreatment than low-frequency stimulation. The most common side effect is headache and scalp pain treated by mild analgesics. Seizures are a rare side effect and are usually due to predisposing factors. Studies have been done to assess the overall efficacy of TMS. However, results have been conflicting, and sample sizes were small. More research should be done with larger sample sizes to test the efficacy of TMS in the treatment of PTSD. Overall, TMS is a relatively safe treatment. Currently, the only FDA- approved to treat refractory depression, but with the potential to treat many other conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amber N Edinoff
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Science Center Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, United States
| | - Tanner L Hegefeld
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Science Center Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, United States
| | - Murray Petersen
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Science Center Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, United States
| | - James C Patterson
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Science Center Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, United States
| | | | - Jacob Slizewski
- Creighton University School of Medicine, Omaha, NE, United States
| | - Ashley Osumi
- Creighton University School of Medicine, Omaha, NE, United States
| | - Elyse M Cornett
- Department of Anesthesiology, Louisiana State University Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, United States
| | - Adam Kaye
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Thomas J. Long School of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, University of the Pacific, Stockton, CA, United States
| | - Jessica S Kaye
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Thomas J. Long School of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, University of the Pacific, Stockton, CA, United States
| | - Vijayakumar Javalkar
- Department of Neurology, Louisiana State University Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, United States
| | - Omar Viswanath
- College of Medicine-Phoenix, University of Arizona, Phoenix, AZ, United States.,Department of Anesthesiology, Creighton University School of Medicine, Omaha, NE, United States.,Valley Anesthesiology and Pain Consultants-Envision Physician Services, Phoenix, AZ, United States
| | - Ivan Urits
- Department of Anesthesiology, Louisiana State University Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, United States.,Southcoast Health, Southcoast Physicians Group Pain Medicine, Wareham, MA, United States
| | - Alan D Kaye
- Department of Anesthesiology, Louisiana State University Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, United States
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Maguen S, Gloria R, Huggins J, Goldstein LA, Kanady JC, Straus LD, Metzler TJ, Lujan C, Neylan TC. Brief behavioral treatment for insomnia improves psychosocial functioning in veterans: results from a randomized controlled trial. Sleep 2021; 44:5918478. [PMID: 33022048 DOI: 10.1093/sleep/zsaa205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Revised: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY OBJECTIVES Our goal was to compare brief behavioral treatment for insomnia (BBTI) to a progressive muscle relaxation training (PMRT) control condition among veterans with insomnia, examining psychosocial functioning as a primary outcome and sleep-related outcomes, mood, cognition, and pain as secondary outcomes. METHODS Veterans were randomly assigned to either BBTI or PMRT (N = 91; 24-74 years; M = 49 years). BBTI consisted of two in-person (60-min and 30-min sessions) and two telephone sessions (20-min each), and the PMRT control condition was matched to BBTI for session duration and type. Veterans were assessed through clinical interview at baseline and self-report measures at pre-, mid-, and posttreatment, as well as 6-month follow-up for the BBTI condition to assess sustained response. Measures also included continuous sleep monitoring with sleep diary. RESULTS Intent-to-treat analyses demonstrated that individuals who completed BBTI versus PMRT reported greater improvements in work, home, social and cognitive functioning, insomnia symptom severity, mood, and energy. Improvements in psychosocial functioning, insomnia symptoms, and mood were maintained 6-months following BBTI treatment completion. CONCLUSIONS Veterans who received BBTI improved and maintained gains in psychosocial functioning, insomnia, and mood. BBTI is a treatment that can be implemented in primary care, mental health, or integrated care settings and provide symptom relief and improved functioning among those with insomnia, one of the most commonly reported mental health problems among veterans. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NCT02571452.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shira Maguen
- San Francisco Veterans Affairs Health Care System, San Francisco, CA.,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA.,Sierra Pacific Mental Illness Research Education, and Clinical Center, San Francisco, CA
| | - Rebecca Gloria
- San Francisco Veterans Affairs Health Care System, San Francisco, CA
| | - Joy Huggins
- San Francisco Veterans Affairs Health Care System, San Francisco, CA
| | - Lizabeth A Goldstein
- San Francisco Veterans Affairs Health Care System, San Francisco, CA.,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA.,Sierra Pacific Mental Illness Research Education, and Clinical Center, San Francisco, CA
| | - Jennifer C Kanady
- San Francisco Veterans Affairs Health Care System, San Francisco, CA.,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA.,Sierra Pacific Mental Illness Research Education, and Clinical Center, San Francisco, CA
| | - Laura D Straus
- San Francisco Veterans Affairs Health Care System, San Francisco, CA.,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA.,Sierra Pacific Mental Illness Research Education, and Clinical Center, San Francisco, CA
| | - Thomas J Metzler
- San Francisco Veterans Affairs Health Care System, San Francisco, CA.,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA.,Sierra Pacific Mental Illness Research Education, and Clinical Center, San Francisco, CA
| | - Callan Lujan
- San Francisco Veterans Affairs Health Care System, San Francisco, CA.,Department of Psychology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA
| | - Thomas C Neylan
- San Francisco Veterans Affairs Health Care System, San Francisco, CA.,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA.,Sierra Pacific Mental Illness Research Education, and Clinical Center, San Francisco, CA
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6
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Nicolas A, Ruby PM. Dreams, Sleep, and Psychotropic Drugs. Front Neurol 2020; 11:507495. [PMID: 33224081 PMCID: PMC7674595 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2020.507495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2019] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Over the past 60 years, the impact of psychotropic drugs on dream recall and content has been scarcely explored. A review of the few existing experimental results on the topic leads us to the following conclusions. For antidepressant drugs, in the great majority, they reduce dream recall frequency (DRF), and the improvement of depressive symptoms is associated with an increase of positive emotion in dream content. For sedative psychotropic drugs, their improvement of sleep quality is associated with a reduction of DRF, but the effect on dream content is less clear. Few occurrences of nightmare frequency increase have been reported, with intake of molecules disturbing sleep or with the withdrawal of some psychotropic drugs. Importantly, the impact of psychotropic drugs on rapid eye movement (REM) sleep does not explain DRF modulations. The reduction of intra-sleep awakenings seems to be the parameter explaining best the modulation of DRF by psychotropic drugs. Indeed, molecules that improve sleep continuity by reducing intra-sleep awakenings also reduce the frequency of dream recall, which is coherent with the “arousal-retrieval model” stating that nighttime awakenings enable dreams to be encoded into long-term memory and therefore facilitate dream recall. DRF is nonetheless influenced by several other factors (e.g., interest in dreams, the method of awakening, and personality traits), which may explain a large part of the variability of results observed and cited in this article.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alain Nicolas
- Lyon Neuroscience Research Center, CNRS UMR 5292 - INSERM U1028 - Lyon 1 University, Lyon, France
| | - Perrine M Ruby
- Lyon Neuroscience Research Center, CNRS UMR 5292 - INSERM U1028 - Lyon 1 University, Lyon, France
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Melton H, Meader N, Dale H, Wright K, Jones-Diette J, Temple M, Shah I, Lovell K, McMillan D, Churchill R, Barbui C, Gilbody S, Coventry P. Interventions for adults with a history of complex traumatic events: the INCiTE mixed-methods systematic review. Health Technol Assess 2020; 24:1-312. [PMID: 32924926 DOI: 10.3310/hta24430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND People with a history of complex traumatic events typically experience trauma and stressor disorders and additional mental comorbidities. It is not known if existing evidence-based treatments are effective and acceptable for this group of people. OBJECTIVE To identify candidate psychological and non-pharmacological treatments for future research. DESIGN Mixed-methods systematic review. PARTICIPANTS Adults aged ≥ 18 years with a history of complex traumatic events. INTERVENTIONS Psychological interventions versus control or active control; pharmacological interventions versus placebo. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms, common mental health problems and attrition. DATA SOURCES Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL) (1937 onwards); Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) (from inception); EMBASE (1974 to 2017 week 16); International Pharmaceutical Abstracts (1970 onwards); MEDLINE and MEDLINE Epub Ahead of Print and In-Process & Other Non-Indexed Citations (1946 to present); Published International Literature on Traumatic Stress (PILOTS) (1987 onwards); PsycINFO (1806 to April week 2 2017); and Science Citation Index (1900 onwards). Searches were conducted between April and August 2017. REVIEW METHODS Eligible studies were singly screened and disagreements were resolved at consensus meetings. The risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool and a bespoke version of a quality appraisal checklist used by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence. A meta-analysis was conducted across all populations for each intervention category and for population subgroups. Moderators of effectiveness were assessed using metaregression and a component network meta-analysis. A qualitative synthesis was undertaken to summarise the acceptability of interventions with the relevance of findings assessed by the GRADE-CERQual checklist. RESULTS One hundred and four randomised controlled trials and nine non-randomised controlled trials were included. For the qualitative acceptability review, 4324 records were identified and nine studies were included. The population subgroups were veterans, childhood sexual abuse victims, war affected, refugees and domestic violence victims. Psychological interventions were superior to the control post treatment for reducing post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms (standardised mean difference -0.90, 95% confidence interval -1.14 to -0.66; number of trials = 39) and also for associated symptoms of depression, but not anxiety. Trauma-focused therapies were the most effective interventions across all populations for post-traumatic stress disorder and depression. Multicomponent and trauma-focused interventions were effective for negative self-concept. Phase-based approaches were also superior to the control for post-traumatic stress disorder and depression and showed the most benefit for managing emotional dysregulation and interpersonal problems. Only antipsychotic medication was effective for reducing post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms; medications were not effective for mental comorbidities. Eight qualitative studies were included. Interventions were more acceptable if service users could identify benefits and if they were delivered in ways that accommodated their personal and social needs. LIMITATIONS Assessments about long-term effectiveness of interventions were not possible. Studies that included outcomes related to comorbid psychiatric states, such as borderline personality disorder, and populations from prisons and humanitarian crises were under-represented. CONCLUSIONS Evidence-based psychological interventions are effective and acceptable post treatment for reducing post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms and depression and anxiety in people with complex trauma. These interventions were less effective in veterans and had less of an impact on symptoms associated with complex post-traumatic stress disorder. FUTURE WORK Definitive trials of phase-based versus non-phase-based interventions with long-term follow-up for post-traumatic stress disorder and associated mental comorbidities. STUDY REGISTRATION This study is registered as PROSPERO CRD42017055523. FUNDING This project was funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Health Technology Assessment programme and will be published in full in Health Technology Assessment; Vol. 24, No. 43. See the NIHR Journals Library website for further project information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hollie Melton
- Centre for Reviews and Dissemination, University of York, York, UK
| | - Nick Meader
- Centre for Reviews and Dissemination, University of York, York, UK
| | - Holly Dale
- School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Kath Wright
- Centre for Reviews and Dissemination, University of York, York, UK
| | | | | | | | - Karina Lovell
- Division of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Dean McMillan
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK.,Hull York Medical School, University of York, York, UK
| | - Rachel Churchill
- Centre for Reviews and Dissemination, University of York, York, UK
| | - Corrado Barbui
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Simon Gilbody
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK.,Hull York Medical School, University of York, York, UK
| | - Peter Coventry
- Centre for Reviews and Dissemination, University of York, York, UK.,Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK
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8
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Sleep in posttraumatic stress disorder: A systematic review and meta-analysis of polysomnographic findings. Sleep Med Rev 2019; 48:101210. [PMID: 31518950 DOI: 10.1016/j.smrv.2019.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2019] [Revised: 07/22/2019] [Accepted: 08/16/2019] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Polysomnographic studies have been performed to examine sleep abnormalities in posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), but clear associations between PTSD and sleep disturbances have not been established. A systematic review of the evidence examining the polysomnographic changes in PTSD patients compared with controls was conducted using MEDLINE, EMBASE, All EBM databases, PsycINFO, and CINAHL databases. Meta-analysis was undertaken where possible. The searches identified 34 studies, 31 of which were appropriate for meta-analysis. Pooled results indicated decreased total sleep time, slow wave sleep and sleep efficiency, and increased wake time after sleep onset in PTSD patients compared with healthy controls. PTSD severity was associated with decreased sleep efficiency and slow wave sleep percentage. Rapid eye movement (REM) sleep percentage was significantly decreased in PTSD patients compared with controls in studies including participants with mean age below 30 y, but not in studies with other mean age groups (30-40 y and >40 y). Our study shows that polysomnographic abnormalities are present in PTSD. Sex, age, PTSD severity, type of controls, medication status, adaptation night, polysomnographic scoring rules and study location are several of the demographic, clinical and methodological factors that contribute to heterogeneity between studies.
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9
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Krakow BJ, McIver ND, Obando JJ, Ulibarri VA. Changes in insomnia severity with advanced PAP therapy in patients with posttraumatic stress symptoms and comorbid sleep apnea: a retrospective, nonrandomized controlled study. Mil Med Res 2019; 6:15. [PMID: 31072385 PMCID: PMC6507057 DOI: 10.1186/s40779-019-0204-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2018] [Accepted: 04/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sleep disorders frequently occur in posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) patients. Chronic insomnia is a common feature of and criteria for the diagnosis of PTSD. Another sleep disorder, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), also occurs frequently in PTSD, and emerging research indicates OSA fuels chronic insomnia. Scant research has investigated the impact of OSA treatment on insomnia outcomes (Insomnia Severity Index, ISI) in trauma survivors. METHODS OSA patients with moderately severe posttraumatic stress symptoms were studied in a retrospective chart review. Ninety-six patients who failed CPAP therapy due to expiratory pressure intolerance or complex sleep apnea or both underwent manual titration with advanced PAP modes [autobilevel (ABPAP); adaptive servo-ventilation (ASV)], which were subsequently prescribed. PAP use measured by objective data downloads divided the sample into three groups: compliant regular users (C-RU): n = 68; subthreshold users (SC-RU): n = 12; and noncompliant users (NC-MU): n = 16. The average follow-up was 11.89 ± 12.22 months. Baseline and posttreatment ISI scores were analyzed to assess residual insomnia symptoms as well as cure rates. RESULTS The C-RU group showed significant improvements in insomnia with very large effects compared to those in the NC-MU reference group (P = 0.019). Insomnia severity significantly decreased in all three groups with large effects (C-RU, P = 0.001; SC-RU, P = 0.027; NC-MU, P = 0.007). Hours of weekly PAP use and insomnia severity were inversely correlated (P = 0.001, r = - 0.321). However, residual insomnia symptoms based on established ISI cut-offs were quite common, even among the C-RU group. Post hoc analysis showed that several categories of sedating medications reported at baseline (hypnotics, anti-epileptic, opiates) as well as actual use of any sedating medication (prescription or nonprescription) were associated with smaller insomnia improvements than those in patients not using any sedating agents. CONCLUSIONS In a retrospective, nonrandomized analysis of a select sample of sleep clinic patients with OSA and PTSD symptoms, advanced PAP therapy was associated with significant improvement in insomnia severity for both compliant and partial users. However, residual insomnia symptoms persisted, indicating that PAP therapy provides only limited treatment. RCTs are warranted to assess the effect of ABPAP and ASV modes of therapy on adherence and sleep outcomes, and their potential impact on posttraumatic stress symptoms. Treatment arms that combine PAP with CBT-I would be expected to yield the greatest potency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barry J Krakow
- Sleep & Human Health Institute, 6739 Academy Rd NE Ste380, Albuquerque, NM, 87109, USA. .,Maimonides Sleep Arts & Sciences, 6739 Academy Rd NE Ste380, Albuquerque, NM, 87109, USA. .,Los Alamos Medical Center, 3917 W Rd, Los Alamos, NM, 87544, USA.
| | - Natalia D McIver
- Sleep & Human Health Institute, 6739 Academy Rd NE Ste380, Albuquerque, NM, 87109, USA.,Maimonides Sleep Arts & Sciences, 6739 Academy Rd NE Ste380, Albuquerque, NM, 87109, USA
| | - Jessica J Obando
- Maimonides Sleep Arts & Sciences, 6739 Academy Rd NE Ste380, Albuquerque, NM, 87109, USA.,Institution: Mozaik Solutions, Solana Beach, CA, 92075, USA
| | - Victor A Ulibarri
- Sleep & Human Health Institute, 6739 Academy Rd NE Ste380, Albuquerque, NM, 87109, USA.,Maimonides Sleep Arts & Sciences, 6739 Academy Rd NE Ste380, Albuquerque, NM, 87109, USA
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10
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Abstract
Nightmares are considered the hallmark of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Although the characteristics of these distressing dreams may vary with the type of traumatic event, the pathophysiology exposes central dysfunction of brain structures at the level of the hippocampus, amygdala, and locus coeruleus, modulated by neurochemical imbalance in nor-adrenergic, dopaminergic, and serotonin pathways. Underlying comorbid conditions, including other sleep disorders, may contribute to worsening symptoms. Addressing sleep disruption can alleviate the severity of these nocturnal events and augment the effectiveness of other PTSD treatments. The expansion of behavioral treatment modalities for PTSD-related nightmares has been encouraging, but the core of these interventions is heavily structured around memory manipulation and imagery rescripting. A lack of a standardized delivery and a high dropout rate continue to pose significant challenges in achieving successful outcomes. The efficacy of existing pharmacological studies, such as α-adrenergic blocking agents, antidepressants, and atypical antipsychotics, has been undermined by methodological limitations and absence of large randomized controlled trials. This review is aimed at reviewing the available treatment strategies for alleviating nightmares in subjects with PTSD. Given the intricate relationship between PTSD and nightmares, future clinical trials have to adopt a more pragmatic approach focused not only on efficacy of novel interventions but also on adjunctive iteration of existing therapies tailored to individual socio-cultural background.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali A El-Solh
- Research Department, VA Western New York Healthcare System, Buffalo, NY, USA,
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Department of Medicine, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA,
- Department of Epidemiology and Environmental Health, School of Public Health and Health Professions, University of Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA,
- Department of Community and Health Behavior, School of Public Health and Health Professions, University of Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA,
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11
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Management of Post-Traumatic Nightmares: a Review of Pharmacologic and Nonpharmacologic Treatments Since 2013. Curr Psychiatry Rep 2018; 20:108. [PMID: 30306339 DOI: 10.1007/s11920-018-0971-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Post-traumatic nightmares (PTN) are a common and enduring problem for individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other clinical presentations. PTN cause significant distress, are associated with large costs, and are an independent risk factor for suicide. Pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatment options for PTN exist. A previous review in this journal demonstrated that Prazosin, an alpha blocker, was a preferred pharmacological treatment for PTN and imagery rescripting therapy (IRT) was a preferred non-pharmacological treatment. Since that time, new and important research findings create the need for an updated review. RECENT FINDINGS Based on the results of a recent study in the New England Journal of Medicine, Prazosin has been downgraded by both the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) and the Veterans Health Administration/Department of Defense (VA/DoD) for PTN. In Canada, Nabilone, a synthetic cannabinoid, appears to be promising. Few recent studies have been published on non-pharmacological interventions for PTN; however, recent data is available with regard to using IRT on an inpatient setting, with German combat veterans, and through the use of virtual technology. Recent evidence supports the use of exposure, relaxation, and rescripting therapy (ERRT) with children and individuals with comorbid bipolar disorder and PTN. Prazosin is no longer considered a first-line pharmacological intervention for PTN by AASM and VA/DoD. However, in the absence of a suitable alternative, it will likely remain the preferred option of prescribers. IRT and ERRT remain preferred non-pharmacological treatments of PTN. Combining cognitive behavior therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) with IRT or ERRT may lead to improved outcomes.
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Abstract
After exposure to traumatic stress, women are at greater risk than men for developing symptoms of some psychiatric disorders, including insomnia and nightmares. Sleep disturbance is one of the most refractory symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder. Women were included in a few studies that examined efficacy of psychological or pharmacologic interventions for trauma-related sleep disturbances. Studies demonstrated preliminary evidence for efficacy of cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia, imagery rehearsal therapy, and combinations of these techniques in treating insomnia and nightmares in trauma-exposed women. Prazosin as an adjunct to ongoing treatment is a potentially efficacious strategy for treating trauma-related nightmares in women.
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Detweiler MB, Pagadala B, Candelario J, Boyle JS, Detweiler JG, Lutgens BW. Treatment of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Nightmares at a Veterans Affairs Medical Center. J Clin Med 2016; 5:jcm5120117. [PMID: 27999253 PMCID: PMC5184790 DOI: 10.3390/jcm5120117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2016] [Revised: 10/28/2016] [Accepted: 12/09/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The effectiveness of medications for PTSD in general has been well studied, but the effectiveness of medicatio.ns prescribed specifically for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) nightmares is less well known. This retrospective chart review examined the efficacy of various medications used in actual treatment of PTSD nightmares at one Veteran Affairs Hospital. Records at the Salem, VA Veterans Affairs Medical Center (VAMC) were examined from 2009 to 2013 to check for the efficacy of actual treatments used in comparis.on with treatments suggested in three main review articles. The final sample consisted of 327 patients and 478 separate medication trials involving 21 individual medications plus 13 different medication combinations. The three most frequently utilized medications were prazosin (107 trials), risperidone (81 trials), and quetiapine (72 trials). Five medications had 20 or more trials with successful results (partial to full nightmare cessation) in >50% of trials: risperidone (77%, 1.0–6.0 mg), clonidine (63%, 0.1–2.0 mg), quetiapine (50%, 12.5–800.0 mg), mirtazapine (50%; 7.5–30.0 mg), and terazosin (64%, 50.0–300.0 mg). Notably, olanzapine (2.5–10.0) was successful (full remission) in all five prescription trials in five separate patients. Based on the clinical results, the use of risperidone, clonidine, terazosin, and olanzapine warrants additional investigation in clinically controlled trials as medications prescribed specifically for PTSD nightmares.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark B Detweiler
- Staff Psychiatrist, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salem, VA 24153, USA.
- Department Psychiatry, Edward via College of Osteopathic Medicine, Blacksburg, VA 24060, USA.
- Virginia Tech-Carilion Clinic Psychiatry Residency Program, Roanoke, VA 24014, USA.
- Geriatric Research Group, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salem, VA 24153, USA.
| | | | - Joseph Candelario
- Geriatric Research Group, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salem, VA 24153, USA.
- Emergency Department, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salem, VA 24153, USA.
| | - Jennifer S Boyle
- Attending Physician, Veterans Affairs Medical Ce.nter, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA.
| | - Jonna G Detweiler
- Geriatric Research Group, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salem, VA 24153, USA.
| | - Brian W Lutgens
- Geriatric Research Group, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salem, VA 24153, USA.
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14
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Lipinska G, Baldwin DS, Thomas KGF. Pharmacology for sleep disturbance in PTSD. Hum Psychopharmacol 2016; 31:156-63. [PMID: 26856810 DOI: 10.1002/hup.2522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2015] [Revised: 11/12/2015] [Accepted: 12/21/2015] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Symptoms of sleep disturbance, particularly nightmares and insomnia, are a central feature of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Emerging evidence suggests that specific treatment of PTSD-related sleep disturbance improves other symptoms of the disorder, which in turn suggests that such disturbance may be fundamental to development and maintenance of the disorder. This mini-review focuses on pharmacological treatment of sleep disturbance in adult PTSD (specifically, studies testing the efficacy of antidepressants, adrenergic inhibiting agents, antipsychotics and benzodiazepine and non-benzodiazepine hypnotics). We conclude that only prazosin, an adrenergic inhibiting agent, has had its efficacy established by multiple randomised controlled trials. There is also high-level evidence supporting use of eszopiclone, as well as risperidone and olanzapine as adjunct therapy. Antidepressants such as sertraline, venlafaxine and mirtazapine, benzodiazepines such as alprazolam and clonazepam and non-benzodiazepine hypnotics such as zolpidem appear ineffective in treating PTSD-related sleep disturbance. Most studies that report reduced frequency of nightmares and insomnia also report decreases in overall symptom severity. Such findings suggest that (i) sleep disruption is central to PTSD; (ii) treating sleep disruption may be an effective way to address other symptoms of the disorder and (iii) PTSD symptoms tend to cluster together in predictable ways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gosia Lipinska
- ACSENT Laboratory, Department of Psychology, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, South Africa.,South African Medical Research Council Unit on Anxiety and Stress Disorders, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - David S Baldwin
- Clinical and Experimental Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK.,Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Kevin G F Thomas
- ACSENT Laboratory, Department of Psychology, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, South Africa.,South African Medical Research Council Unit on Anxiety and Stress Disorders, Cape Town, South Africa
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15
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Katzman MA, Struzik L, Vivian LL, Vermani M, McBride JC. Pharmacotherapy of post-traumatic stress disorder: a family practitioner’s guide to management of the disease. Expert Rev Neurother 2014; 5:129-39. [PMID: 15853483 DOI: 10.1586/14737175.5.1.129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Post-traumatic stress disorder is a difficult to treat, yet common disorder, which is associated with significant morbidity, mortality and societal burden. Comprehensive management of post-traumatic stress disorder must include both psychotherapeutic and pharmacologic components. The current evidence-based pharmacologic management approaches to post-traumatic stress disorder, suggests that first-line treatments for monotherapy are the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, sertraline, paroxetine and fluoxetine. Other potential options include other monotherapies including venlafaxine, mirtazapine, tricyclic antidepressants, monoamine oxidase inhibitors, as well as adjunctive usage of atypical antipsychotics, lamotrigine, trazadone and a number of adrenergic agents. A trial of therapy should be at least 8 weeks and continue for at the very least 12 months, but is likely to be much longer. In light of the risks of untreated post-traumatic stress disorder (e.g., suicide and impaired psychosocial functioning), therapy may need to be continued for 2 years or more. Pharmacologic therapy instituted at the time of acute psychologic trauma shows promise for the prevention of post-traumatic stress disorder in the future and warrants further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin A Katzman
- Start Clinic for the Treatment of Mood and Anxiety Disorders, 790 Bay St. Suite 1110, Toronto, Ontario, M5G 1N8, Canada.
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16
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Treating nightmares and insomnia in posttraumatic stress disorder: a review of current evidence. Neuropharmacology 2011; 62:576-85. [PMID: 21396945 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2011.02.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2010] [Revised: 02/27/2011] [Accepted: 02/28/2011] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Emerging evidence supports the notion of disrupted sleep as a core component of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Effective treatments for nighttime PTSD symptoms are critical because sleep disruption may be mechanistically linked to development and maintenance of PTSD and is associated with significant distress, functional impairment, and poor health. This review aimed to describe the state of science with respect to the impact of the latest behavioral and pharmacological interventions on posttraumatic nightmares and insomnia. Published studies that examined evidence for therapeutic effects upon sleep were included. Some behavioral and pharmacological interventions show promise, especially for nightmares, but there is a need for controlled trials that include valid sleep measures and are designed to identify treatment mechanisms. Our ability to treat PTSD-related sleep disturbances may be improved by moving away from considering sleep symptoms in isolation and instead conducting integrative studies that examine sequential or combined behavioral and/or pharmacological treatments targeting both the daytime and nighttime aspects of PTSD. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled 'Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder'.
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17
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To review and summarize existing literature regarding pharmacological interventions for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in children and adolescents. A literature search limited to articles focused on the pharmacological treatment of children aged 0-18 years with a history of trauma and/or PTSD was conducted through the National Library of Medicine and PsychInfo, 1967-present, and each citation manually reviewed. RECENT FINDINGS Pharmacologic trials for pediatric PTSD are limited in scope and number, with one small double-blind, randomized controlled trial of the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) sertraline. Two brief, small, double-blind, randomized controlled trials of imipramine for children and adolescents with acute stress disorder have been conducted, with mixed results. Only case reports or open-labeled trials have been conducted with alpha-adrenergic agents, other antidepressants, atypical antipsychotics, and antiepileptic agents. SUMMARY Data supporting the use of medications in the treatment of PTSD in children and adolescents are limited. SSRIs show promise and deserve additional study, but conclusive support for their use is not available as it is in adults. Additional research is needed, with other drugs of interest including other antidepressants, alpha-adrenergic agents, and possibly the antiepileptic agent carbamazepine.
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Abstract
Nightmares, distressing dreams that primarily arise from REM sleep, are prevalent among the general population and even more so among clinical populations. The frequency of nightmares and related nightmare distress are linked to both sleep disturbance and waking psychopathology. Based on the extant evidence, nightmares appear to be particularly relevant to posttraumatic stress disorder, and may even be implicated in its pathophysiology. Significant advances in treatment have occurred in recent years, with effective pharmacological and psychosocial interventions now available. Despite the progress that has been made, however, more consistent assessment methods and more rigorous study designs are needed to fully understand the causes and consequences of nightmares.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brant Hasler
- University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Pittsburgh, PA
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19
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Miller LJ. Prazosin for the Treatment of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Sleep Disturbances. Pharmacotherapy 2008; 28:656-66. [DOI: 10.1592/phco.28.5.656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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20
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Maher MJ, Rego SA, Asnis GM. Sleep disturbances in patients with post-traumatic stress disorder: epidemiology, impact and approaches to management. CNS Drugs 2006; 20:567-90. [PMID: 16800716 DOI: 10.2165/00023210-200620070-00003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 210] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Subjective reports of sleep disturbance indicate that 70-91% of patients with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) have difficulty falling or staying asleep. Nightmares are reported by 19-71% of patients, depending on the severity of their PTSD and their exposure to physical aggression. Objective measures of sleep disturbance are inconsistent, with some studies that used these measures indicating poor sleep and others finding no differences compared with non-PTSD controls. Future research in this area may benefit from examining measures of instability in the microstructure of sleep. Additionally, recent findings suggest that sleep disordered breathing (SDB) and sleep movement disorders are more common in patients with PTSD than in the general population and that these disorders may contribute to the brief awakenings, insomnia and daytime fatigue in patients with PTSD. Overall, sleep problems have an impact on the development and symptom severity of PTSD and on the quality of life and functioning of patients. In terms of treatments, SSRIs are commonly used to treat PTSD, and evidence suggests that they have a small but significant positive effect on sleep disruption. Studies of serotonin-potentiating non-SSRIs suggest that nefazodone and trazodone lead to significant reductions in insomnia and nightmares, whereas cyproheptadine may exacerbate sleep problems in patients with PTSD. Prazosin, a centrally acting alpha1-adrenoceptor antagonist, has led to large reductions in nightmares and insomnia in small studies of patients with PTSD. Augmentation of SSRIs with olanzapine, an atypical antipsychotic, may be effective for treatment-resistant nightmares and insomnia, although adverse effects can be significant. Additional medications, including zolpidem, buspirone, gabapentin and mirtazapine, have been found to improve sleep in patients with PTSD. Large randomised, placebo-controlled trials are needed to confirm the above findings. In contrast, evidence suggests that benzodiazepines, TCAs and MAOIs are not useful for the treatment of PTSD-related sleep disorders, and their adverse effect profiles make further studies unlikely. Cognitive behavioural interventions for sleep disruption in patients with PTSD include strategies targeting insomnia and imagery rehearsal therapy (IRT) for nightmares. One large randomised controlled trial of group IRT demonstrated significant reductions in nightmares and insomnia. Similarly, uncontrolled studies combining IRT and insomnia strategies have demonstrated good outcomes. Uncontrolled studies of continuous positive airway pressure for SDB in patients with PTSD show that this treatment led to significant decreases in nightmares, insomnia and PTSD symptoms. Controlled studies are needed to confirm these promising findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Maher
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Montefiore Medical Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York 10467, USA
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21
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van Liempt S, Vermetten E, Geuze E, Westenberg HGM. Pharmacotherapy for disordered sleep in post-traumatic stress disorder: a systematic review. Int Clin Psychopharmacol 2006; 21:193-202. [PMID: 16687990 DOI: 10.1097/00004850-200607000-00001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Sleep disorders, such as insomnia and nightmares, are common problems in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), exert a strong negative influence on the quality of life and are a great challenge for clinical psychiatry. Several studies have reported on the efficacy of drugs for the treatment of PTSD-related sleep disorders. These studies have not been systematically reviewed. This is the first review on the effectiveness of sleep medication in PTSD. We performed a Medline, EMBASE and Cochrane Library Indexed search, using the keywords: PTSD, pharmacotherapy, therapy, sleep, nightmares, insomnia and review. From this database, English-language, human subject, data driven papers published after 1980 were selected. Forty eight articles are discussed. Open-label and case studies suggest efficacy for some antidepressants, anticonvulsants and atypical antipsychotics. Only a few placebo-controlled studies have been published. They show promising results for the atypical antipsychotic olanzapine, and the alpha1-adrenoceptor antagonist prazosin. In comparison to the incidence and impact of sleep complaints in PTSD, the pharmacotherapeutic armamentarium for PTSD-related sleep complaints remains poorly investigated. Some recent studies show promising results, especially for alpha1-adrenoceptor and 5-HT2 receptor antagonists. However, randomized controlled trials with larger populations need to be conducted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saskia van Liempt
- Department of Military Psychiatry, Central Military Hospital, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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22
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Abstract
Approximately one half of patients with insomnia have a primary psychiatric disorder such as a depression or anxiety. Insomnia is associated with increased risk of new or recurrent psychiatric disorders, increased daytime sleepiness with consequent cognitive impairment, poorer prognoses, reduced quality of life and high healthcare-related financial burden. Emerging data suggest that resolution of insomnia may improve psychiatric outcomes, which underscores the importance of vigorous treatment. Unfortunately, only a small percentage of patients receive such care. An ideal monotherapeutic strategy would treat both depression and insomnia. There are, however, only a handful of modern antidepressants that objectively improve sleep maintenance problems, and none do so without causing adverse next-day effects such as sedation. Thus, a significant number of patients must take adjunctive hypnotic medications, even though longer-term efficacy has not been established. New and emerging anti-insomnia agents may prove useful in the long-term treatment of chronic insomnia. Further research is needed to establish the benefits of such treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael E Thase
- Department of Psychiatry, Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15213-2593, USA.
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23
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Germain A, Buysse DJ, Shear MK, Fayyad R, Austin C. Clinical correlates of poor sleep quality in posttraumatic stress disorder. J Trauma Stress 2004; 17:477-84. [PMID: 15730066 DOI: 10.1007/s10960-004-5796-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Sleep disturbances (SD) are a core clinical feature of PTSD. The goal of the study was to determine the influence of patient-related characteristics, disorder-related characteristics, and psychiatric comorbidity on the severity of SD in PTSD outpatients (n = 367) who were not recruited for a sleep study. Increased severity of SD paralleled increasing overall PTSD severity. The severity of SD did not differ according to gender, age groups, types of trauma, PTSD chronicity, or psychiatric comorbidity. Results suggest that age, gender, and psychiatric comorbidity have minimal impact on sleep quality in this PTSD sample. The inclusion of PTSD patients who were not specifically seeking treatment for SD reinforces the study findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Germain
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15213, USA.
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24
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark J Atkinson
- Worldwide Outcomes Research, Pfizer Inc., Kalamazoo, MI 49000, USA
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25
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Osuch E, Ursano R, Li H, Webster M, Hough C, Fullerton C, Leskin G. Brain environment interactions: stress, posttraumatic stress disorder, and the need for a postmortem brain collection. Psychiatry 2004; 67:353-83. [PMID: 15801377 DOI: 10.1521/psyc.67.4.353.56565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Stress, especially the extreme stress of traumatic events, can alter both neurobiology and behavior. Such extreme environmental situations provide a useful model for understanding environmental influences on human biology and behavior. This paper will review some of the evidence of brain alterations that occur with exposure to environmental stress. This will include recent studies using neuroimaging and will address the need for histological confirmation of imaging study results. We will review the current scientific approaches to understanding brain environment interactions, and then make the case for the collection and study of postmortem brain tissue for the advancement of our understanding of the effects of environment on the brain. Creating a brain tissue collection specifically for the investigation of the effects of extreme environmental stressors fills a gap in the current research; it will provide another of the important pieces to the puzzle that constitutes the scientific investigation of negative effects of environmental exposures. Such a resource will facilitate new discoveries related to the psychiatric illnesses of acute stress disorder and posttraumatic stress disorder, and can enable scientists to correlate structural and functional imaging findings with tissue abnormalities, which is essential to validate the results of recent imaging studies.
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MESH Headings
- Acoustic Stimulation/adverse effects
- Axons/physiology
- Brain/metabolism
- Brain/pathology
- Brain/physiopathology
- Environment
- Epinephrine/blood
- Epinephrine/urine
- Humans
- Limbic System/anatomy & histology
- Limbic System/metabolism
- Limbic System/pathology
- Limbic System/physiopathology
- Norepinephrine/blood
- Norepinephrine/urine
- Reflex, Startle
- Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic/metabolism
- Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic/physiopathology
- Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic/psychology
- Stress Disorders, Traumatic, Acute/metabolism
- Stress Disorders, Traumatic, Acute/physiopathology
- Stress Disorders, Traumatic, Acute/psychology
- Tissue Banks
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Osuch
- Department of Psychiatry, Uniformed Services Universityof the Health Sciences, 4301 Jones Bridge Road, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA.
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