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The Role of the Glutamatergic System in Posttraumatic Stress Disorder

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  07 November 2014

Jyotsna Nair  and
Sarbjot Singh Ajit
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Abstract

Antiglutamatergic agents, such as lamotrigine, have been used successfully for the treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). They could be potentially acting through the stabilization of the corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) systems. Glutamate mediates CRF release in various brain regions involved in the pathophysiology of PTSD, antiglutamatergic agents could stabilize the CRF system and, thereby, improve the symptom complex of PTSD (reexperiencing, hyperarousal, and avoidance). The role of glutamate and CRF in PTSD and other anxiety disorders are still being elucidated. However, it is clear that the glutamatergic systems play a role in the pathophysiology of PTSD.

Type
Review Articles
Information
CNS Spectrums , Volume 13 , Issue 7 , July 2008 , pp. 585 - 591
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 2008

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