Hydrocortisone for Preventing PTSD
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests whether a single dose of hydrocortisone (HCORT) can prevent PTSD in highly distressed trauma survivors. HCORT works by boosting the body's natural stress recovery system. If successful, this could provide a simple, portable treatment for those at high risk of PTSD.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications, but you cannot participate if you are currently taking oral steroids or have used benzodiazepines within 24 hours of trauma exposure.
Is hydrocortisone safe for humans?
How does hydrocortisone differ from other drugs for preventing PTSD?
Hydrocortisone is unique in its use for preventing PTSD because it targets the body's stress response system (the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis) immediately after trauma, potentially reducing PTSD symptoms by stabilizing stress hormone levels. This approach is different from traditional psychological therapies and is still being explored as a novel pharmacological intervention.12346
What evidence supports the effectiveness of hydrocortisone in preventing PTSD?
Who Is on the Research Team?
Rachel Yehuda, PhD
Principal Investigator
Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai; James J. Peters Veterans Affairs Medical Center
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults who've recently experienced trauma, feel highly distressed or disconnected, and have a heart rate of 80 bpm or more. They must weigh between 99-242 lbs and not be severely injured, intoxicated, pregnant, on steroids or benzodiazepines, nor have certain chronic diseases or mental health conditions.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive a single dose of hydrocortisone or placebo within six hours of trauma exposure
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment, with assessments at 2, 6, 12, and 28 weeks post-treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Hydrocortisone
- Placebo
Hydrocortisone is already approved in European Union, United States, Canada for the following indications:
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Rachel Yehuda
Lead Sponsor
The Chaim Sheba Medical Center
Collaborator
James J. Peters Veterans Affairs Medical Center
Collaborator