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Medication Management in Trauma Recovery
Contributed by: Jennifer Wade, B.A., writer for Eating Disorder Hope
The primary treatment in trauma recovery tends to be psychotherapy, which can include meeting one-on-one with a therapist or participating in group counseling. In addition to psychotherapy, many doctors recommend medication. By combining therapy with medication, a patient can often help improve symptoms of trauma or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Medication can also help if you’ve developed problems related to your traumatic experience such as depression, an eating disorder or chemical dependence. There is a variety of medications that can help in the treatment of trauma.
SSRIs
The most commonly prescribed class of medications for trauma patients is selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressants. This class of medication is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and includes drugs such as Prozac, Zoloft and Paxil [3].
SSRIs raise the level of serotonin in your brain and can improve your mood [2]. These medications can help symptoms of depression, panic and anxiety associated with trauma and PTSD. They can also help improve sleep problems and concentration.
This class of antidepressants can take up to two months to work, so patients must have patience when taking them. There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to medication. Patients don’t always respond favorably to the first medication they are prescribed so they must try a variety of medication before finding the right fit.
Common side effects include insomnia or sleepiness, sexual dysfunction and weight gain. Despite the side effects, they are considered an effective treatment for anxiety disorders [3].
Mood Stabilizers
A second type of medication that may be help treat trauma sufferers is mood stabilizers such as Lamictal or Gabitril. Mood stabilizers help patients function better at school or work by helping stabilize moods and combat depression [1].
Mood stabilizers may not begin to work instantly. It’s important to continue taking them even if you do not notice any effects at first. Depending on which medication you are taking, it can take over a week for the medicine to kick in.
Benzodiazepines
A third type of medication that doctors may prescribe for short-term use for trauma patients is Benzodiazepines such as Valium or Xanax. These drugs can improve feelings of anxiety and stress for a short time. They are effective at helping with relaxation and relieving anxiety symptoms [1].
These medications have a tendency for abuse, so they are not usually taken long-term.
A benefit to benzodiazepines is that they kick in quickly. Some people will notice a difference after their first few doses and the medication may begin relieving anxiety about a half hour after taking the pill.
There are other types of medication your doctor may prescribe in addition to the three listed above.
Medication Plan
Your doctor will determine the best plan for medication. Many medications tend to take a few weeks to kick in. Often, doctors will start at a low dose and work up to a higher dose that’s most effective for your body. The process may seem timely and frustrating, but once you find the proper mediation and dosage you will begin feeling much better.
Before Taking Medication
- To avoid potentially dangerous drug interactions, tell your doctor all the medication you are taking
- Ask your doctor about potential side effects
- Ask your doctor for specific directions for taking medication
- Opt for a consultation when picking up medication from pharmacy
Following Instructions
It’s important that you follow the treatment plan developed by your doctor. To feel the benefits, you must be patient and consistent with the medication.
It is important to take care of yourself while talking the medication. Eating healthy and getting a good night’s sleep are crucial to your well-being. It’s also advised to avoid caffeine, nicotine or alcohol while taking medication because they can interfere with the medication or lead to increased anxiety.
Medication may be a short-term or long-term treatment option depending on the severity of the symptoms, other medical conditions and individual circumstances.
Treatment may be complicated if you have more than one anxiety disorder or if you suffer from depression, substance abuse or other co-existing conditions. This is why treatment must be tailored specifically for each person [1].
Community Discussion – Share your thoughts here!
What has been your experience with the medication management in trauma recovery? Did you also utilize non-medical treatments, such as yoga, what worked well for you?
About the Author: Jennifer Wade is a contributing writer for Eating Disorder Hope and Addiction Hope. She graduated cum laude with a B.A. from Loyola Marymount University. Having struggled as a teen, Jennifer is an advocate for eating disorder awareness. She currently works as a reporter for KTVZ, the NBC and FOX affiliate in Central Oregon.
References:
[1]: Anxiety and Depression Association of America, ADAA. Retrieved March 18, 2016, from http://www.adaa.org/[2]: PTSD: National Center for PTSD. Retrieved March 18, 2016, from http://www.ptsd.va.gov/public/treatment/therapy-med/treatment-ptsd.asp
[3]: U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Retrieved March 18, 2016, from http://www.fda.gov/Drugs/DrugSafety/InformationbyDrugClass.htm/
The opinions and views of our guest contributors are shared to provide a broad perspective of eating disorders. These are not necessarily the views of Eating Disorder Hope, but an effort to offer discussion of various issues by different concerned individuals.
We at Eating Disorder Hope understand that eating disorders result from a combination of environmental and genetic factors. If you or a loved one are suffering from an eating disorder, please know that there is hope for you, and seek immediate professional help.
Last Updated & Reviewed By: Jacquelyn Ekern, MS, LPC on May 19, 2016
Published on EatingDisorderHope.com
The EatingDisorderHope.com editorial team comprises experienced writers, editors, and medical reviewers specializing in eating disorders, treatment, and mental and behavioral health.
