EMDR treatment for PTSD after heart events
EMDR Treatment in PTSD Following Cardiac Events
NA · University of Zurich · NCT04672551
This study is testing if EMDR therapy can help people with PTSD after heart events feel better and reduce their risk of future heart problems.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 60 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 70 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Zurich (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Zurich) |
| Trial ID | NCT04672551 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the effectiveness of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy for patients suffering from posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) following cardiac events such as myocardial infarction. It aims to determine whether EMDR can reduce PTSD symptoms, which may also help mitigate the risk of further cardiovascular issues. The study will compare the outcomes of patients receiving EMDR treatment against those on a passive waitlist, focusing on the unique symptom profile of cardiac-induced PTSD. This research addresses a significant gap in the treatment of PTSD related to cardiac conditions, as current therapies are not routinely offered to these patients.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18-70 who have experienced a myocardial infarction and have been diagnosed with PTSD related to that event.
Not a fit: Patients with psychotic disorders, ongoing substance abuse, or those currently receiving other psychological treatments may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this treatment could significantly improve the mental health and overall well-being of patients recovering from cardiac events.
How similar studies have performed: While there is preliminary evidence suggesting EMDR may be beneficial for cardiac-induced PTSD, this specific approach has not been extensively tested in randomized controlled trials.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Age between 18-70 years * Men or women * STEMI (irrespective of troponin, but ST-elevation) or non-STEMI (troponin positive) at the time of the cardiac event, as verified by the cardiologist * Diagnosis of PTSD caused by the cardiac event Exclusion Criteria: * Psychotic disorder, bipolar disorder, substance abuse as measured with the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview (M.I.N.I) * Acute suicidal ideation as assessed with the M.I.N.I. * Non-selective beta blockers (e.g., propranolol) during the study period * Ongoing psychological/psychiatric treatment outside of the trial during the study period * Visionary problems, e.g. strabismus, which does not allow adequate eye movements * Insufficient knowledge of the German language * Expected inability or willingness to follow the study protocol * Regular medication with benzodiazepine
Where this trial is running
Zurich
- University Hospital Zurich — Zurich, Switzerland (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Christoph Mueller-Pfeiffer, PD Dr. med. — University of Zurich/University Hospital Zurich
- Study coordinator: Christoph Mueller-Pfeiffer, PD Dr. med.
- Email: christoph.mueller-pfeiffer@access.uzh.ch
- Phone: +41 44 255 52 80
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: Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Myocardial Infarction, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, PTSD, MI, ACS, EMDR