Comparing EMDR therapy and SSRIs for treating PTSD
Efficacy of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy Versus Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) in the Treatment of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: A Randomized Controlled Trial
NA · Combined Military Hospital Nowshera · NCT06955845
This study is testing whether EMDR therapy can help adults with PTSD feel better compared to taking SSRIs over six weeks.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 60 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 60 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Combined Military Hospital Nowshera (other gov) |
| Locations | 2 sites (Nowshera, KPK and 1 other locations) |
| Trial ID | NCT06955845 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This randomized controlled trial compares the effectiveness of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy with Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) in treating adults diagnosed with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Participants aged 18-60 will be randomly assigned to receive either EMDR therapy or SSRIs for six weeks. The primary outcome will be the rate of remission measured by validated PTSD symptom severity scales at Week 6, while secondary outcomes will assess changes in functional impairment and quality of life. The study aims to evaluate whether EMDR can serve as a non-pharmacological alternative to SSRIs for PTSD symptom relief.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18-60 with a clinical diagnosis of PTSD lasting at least six months.
Not a fit: Patients with current substance abuse, psychotic disorders, bipolar disorder, or active suicidal ideation may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide an effective non-drug treatment option for patients suffering from PTSD.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promising results for EMDR therapy in treating PTSD, indicating that this approach is supported by existing evidence.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: Age 18-60 years Clinical diagnosis of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Duration of illness ≥ 6 months Able to provide informed consent Exclusion Criteria: Current substance abuse or dependence History of psychotic disorder or bipolar disorder Active suicidal ideation Concurrent psychotherapy or psychiatric medication (except study-assigned SSRI)
Where this trial is running
Nowshera, KPK and 1 other locations
- Combined Military Hospital — Nowshera, KPK, Pakistan (NOT_YET_RECRUITING)
- Department of Psychiatry, Combined Military Hospital Nowshera — Nowshera, Kpk, Pakistan (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Asad Ullah Jan, MBBS,FCPS — CMH Nowshera
- Study coordinator: Asad Ullah Jan, MBBS, FCPS( Psychiatry)
- Email: asad2097@gmail.com
- Phone: +923445515919
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions: PTSD, PTSD - Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, EMDR, SSRIs, Trauma, Mental Health, Randomized controlled trial, Post-traumatic stress disorder