Cortisol and the Formation of Intrusive Memories
Status
Conditions
Treatments
Details and patient eligibility
About
Intrusive memories of traumatic events are core features of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) but little is known about the neurobiological formation of intrusions. The aim of this study was to determine whether cortisol levels during an intrusion-inducing stressor influence subsequent intrusive memories.
Full description
The investigators conducted an experimental, double-blind, placebo-controlled study in 60 healthy women. Prior to watching an established trauma film paradigm that induces short lasting intrusions, participants received a single dose of either 10 mg hydrocortisone or placebo. The number of consecutive intrusions of the trauma film, the mean vividness of the intrusions and the mean degree of distress evoked by the intrusions were assessed during the following seven days. Salivary cortisol and alpha-amylase were collected at seven time points prior to, and after the trauma film.
Enrollment
Sex
Ages
Volunteers
Inclusion criteria
- healthy participants
- German on a native level
Exclusion criteria
- former or present DSM IV Axis I disorders
- physical illnesses
- any medication intake (except oral contraceptive)
- history of sexual abuse or rape
- pregnancy or lactation period
Trial design
Primary purpose
Allocation
Interventional model
Masking
60 participants in 2 patient groups
Trial contacts and locations
Loading...
Data sourced from clinicaltrials.gov
Clinical trials
Research sites
Resources
Legal