Management of post-traumatic nightmares: a review of pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic treatments since 2010

Curr Psychiatry Rep. 2012 Oct;14(5):529-35. doi: 10.1007/s11920-012-0306-7.

Abstract

Nightmares are a universal and timeless phenomenon. They occur in most healthy adults as well as a significant portion of clinical populations, especially those exposed to trauma. Considerable advances in the pharmacological and psychological treatment of post-traumatic nightmares have occurred over the last decade with continuing advances in psychological interventions over the last few years. Pharmacologically, the medication prazosin is showing robust clinical effects with minimal side effects. Psychologically, imagery rehearsal therapy commands the greater portion of the nightmare literature due to its established efficacy. These issues are reviewed in the following paper along with recommendations for future studies.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adrenergic alpha-1 Receptor Antagonists / therapeutic use*
  • Antidepressive Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Antipsychotic Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Combined Modality Therapy / methods
  • Dreams*
  • Humans
  • Psychotherapy / methods*
  • Sleep Wake Disorders / therapy*
  • Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic / therapy*

Substances

  • Adrenergic alpha-1 Receptor Antagonists
  • Antidepressive Agents
  • Antipsychotic Agents