Sertraline (Zoloft), is an antidepressant, which can help reduce symptoms associated with Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Other selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are currently being studied and are generally thought to be effective for PTSD, but research is ongoing. Carbamazepine, an anticonvulsant medication may be added to treatment with an SSRI to help reduce intrusive symptoms, anger, and impulsive behaviors associated with PTSD. However, the effectiveness of carbamazepine is only now being studied and its effectiveness has not yet been proven. Other mood stabilizers such as lithium and valproate may also be used to treat PTSD.
Anti-Anxiety Drugs
The most common anti-anxiety medication— benzodiazepines and buspirone—are given for short term benefits. But these may lead to side effects such as drowsiness or lethargy, and dependency on part of the patient. Antidepressant and anti-anxiety drugs are those classes of prescription drugs that are most often abused or misused. Physicians have to be extra careful in deciding the most appropriate anti-anxiety medication for individual needs and symptoms