Aripiprazole in the treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder: an open-label trial

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: Post traumatic stress disorder is frequent in the general population (7.8%-lifetime-USA). The selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors are the first choice of treatment but result in low remission rates. This study aims to evaluate the effect of aripiprazole monotherapy for the treatment of post traumatic stress disorder. METHOD: Thirty-two patients diagnosed with post traumatic stress disorder were included in a 16-week open label trial of aripiprazole. They were evaluated at baseline, week 8, and 16 with the Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale, Beck Depression Inventory, Beck Anxiety Inventory, Medical Outcome Study Short Form 36, and Social Adjustment Scale. Statistical analysis were performed with an intention-to-treat approach and last observation carried forward. A general linear model for repeated measures comparing the factor with 3 continuous measures from baseline, 8 and 16 weeks was used. A between-subject factor was included RESULTS: Nine patients discontinued the treatment. The mean aripiprazole dose was 9.6 (+/- 4.3) mg/day. The mean scores at baseline and endpoint for all measures were: Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale - 82.7 (+/- 23.1) and 51.4 (+/- 31.4) (F = 11.247, p = 0.001); Beck Anxiety Inventory - 31.7 (+/- 13.4) and 25.4 (+/- 18.2) (F = 8.931, p = 0.011); Social Adjustment Scale - 2.4 (+/- 0.45) and 2.27 (+/- 0.57) (F = 8.633, p = 0.012); Medical Outcome Study Short Form 36 - 76.6 (+/- 14.11) and 94.01 (+/- 25.06) (F = 10.127 p = 0.007); and Beck Depression Inventory - 26.06 (+/- 11.6) and 21.35 (+/- 12.6) (F = 1.580, p = 0.042). In all measurements, the differences were statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS: Patients achieved a good response to treatment with aripiprazole, but placebo-controlled studies are needed for more accurate results.