EMDR treatment for PTSD after heart events

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

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.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

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 it's running

• 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

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.