Davidson et al Study (abnormal, bio)

Question 1

Aim

Answer 1

To examine the effectiveness of sertraline (a SSRI) in comparison with a placebo, in sustaining improvement and preventing relapse (maintenance treatment) over a 28-week period in patients with PTSD.

Question 2

Procedure

Answer 2

• participants needed to have completed two previous studies in order to qualify
• approx 100 partciciapnts randomly assigned daily dose of sertraline (Zoloft) or placebo (over 28 weeks)
• several tests were completed biweekly including rate of relapse, severity scale and quality of life
• cognitive psychotherapy was not permitted during any of the trials

Question 3

Findings

Answer 3

• Placebo group:
• Zoloft group had improved quality of life
• Zoloft (SSRI) significantly decreased rate of relapse of PTSD
• Supports use of SSRIs as a maintenance treatkment for PTSD

Question 4

Strengths

Answer 4

• double-blind procedure
• drug therapy only, no psychotherapy
• measured compliance (measuring to make sure they take right amount)

Question 5

Limitations

Answer 5

• Retention rate: Zoloft group - 60% of participants finished study - placebo group - 40%
• All participants were experiencing highly chronic (moderate or greater severity) PTSD - perhaps not applicable to milder forms

Question 6

Ethical Considerations

Answer 6

• Protection from harm
• Some participants in placebo group dropped out because PTSD symptoms returned
• Psychotherapy not permitted
• Some participants in placebo group experienced negative symptoms as a result of stopping zoloft

Question 7

Research Method

Answer 7

• Experiment (lab or true)