The role of the glutamatergic system in posttraumatic stress disorder.
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.
Nair
Jyotsna
J
Child and Youth Services, Burrell Behavioral Health, Springfield, Missouri, USA.
Singh Ajit
Sarbjot
S
D000818:Animals; D002121:Calcium Channel Blockers / Q000627:therapeutic use; D003346:Corticotropin-Releasing Hormone / Q000378:metabolism / Q000502:physiology*; D018698:Glutamic Acid / Q000378:metabolism / Q000502:physiology*; D006801:Humans; D007030:Hypothalamo-Hypophyseal System / Q000378:metabolism / Q000503:physiopathology; D000077213:Lamotrigine; D010913:Pituitary-Adrenal System / Q000378:metabolism / Q000503:physiopathology; D013313:Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000378:metabolism / Q000503:physiopathology*; D013312:Stress, Physiological / Q000378:metabolism / Q000503:physiopathology; D014227:Triazines / Q000627:therapeutic use
D002121:Calcium Channel Blockers; D014227:Triazines; D018698:Glutamic Acid; D003346:Corticotropin-Releasing Hormone; D000077213:Lamotrigine