Valproate in combat-related posttraumatic stress disorder.

BACKGROUND

The symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) suggest sympathetic nervous system hyperarousal and hyperreactivity. Pathophysiology of this condition may include stress-activated limbic kindling. Antikindling agents lithium and carbamazepine have been found effective for PTSD symptoms of intrusive reexperiencing and increased arousal. These facts suggest that valproate, another drug shown to interfere with limbic kindling, could also be effective for treatment of PTSD.

METHOD

An open clinical trial of valproate was conducted in 16 Vietnam veterans diagnosed with DSM-III-R combat-related PTSD.

RESULTS

Ten of 16 patients showed significant improvement, especially in hyperarousal/hyperreactivity symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS

The efficacy of valproate in the treatment of PTSD should be rigorously studied.