| While psychotherapy, sometimes called "counseling", has been shown to be the most effective treatment for PTSD, certain medications have also been proven to help decrease many of the core symptoms. These medications can be used alone, or in combination with psychotherapy. What Medications Work Best? Recommended medications for PTSD are called Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) or Selective Norepinephrine/Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs). They are both types of antidepressant medicine. These can help you feel less sad, worried, and improve your overall functioning. SSRIs include sertraline (Zoloft), paroxetine (Paxil) or fluoxetine (such as Prozac), and the SNRI venlafaxine (Effexor). How Do These Medications Work? Chemicals in your brain affect the way you think and feel. For example, when you have symptoms such as sadness, fatigue or insomnia, you may not have enough of a chemical called serotonin. SSRIs raise the level of serotonin in your brain to help you feel better and improve your quality of life. Is Medication is Right for Me? Talk to your health care provider about which medications are right for you. Learn about options, what you need to know before taking medications, and potential side effects (video). Should I be Cautious about Certain Medications? Some doctors have prescribed medications known as benzodiazepines for patients with PTSD to help with symptoms such as anxiety or insomnia. These medications may be known as Valium, Xanax, Klonopin or Ativan. Benzodiazepines may help these symptoms in the short term, but we now know that they do not improve the overall symptoms of PTSD. Their helpful effects do not last and they come with possible safety concerns. Atypical antipsychotics are another class of medication occasionally used for symptoms of PTSD. They also can have concerning side effects and are not typically recommended to treat PTSD. What Medications Can I Take to Improve my Insomnia or Anxiety? The first-line medication recommendations for PTSD, the antidepressants, are effective in treating your anxiety and insomnia symptoms. You also can benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy. Talk to your provider about safer, more effective treatment options. Prazosin is a medication that works by decreasing the adrenaline produced by your body when you are stressed and has been shown to help with trauma-related nightmares. This can significantly improve your sleep. Ask your health care provider if it may be right for you. back to top | 
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