The guidelines provided by the New York State Workers Compensation Board offer general principles for the use of atypical antidepressants. These directives aim to assist healthcare professionals in determining appropriate strategies for prescribing these specific types of antidepressant medications as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
Healthcare practitioners specializing in atypical antidepressants can rely on the guidance from the Workers Compensation Board to make well-informed decisions about the most suitable approaches for employing these medications in the care of their patients.
It is crucial to emphasize that these guidelines are not intended to replace clinical judgment or professional expertise. The ultimate decision regarding the use of atypical antidepressants should involve collaboration between the patient and their healthcare provider.
Atypical Antidepressants
Trazodone is a recommended option for treating patients with PTSD, particularly when dealing with sleep disorders like insomnia and nightmares. It may be suggested after trying first-line PTSD psychotherapies or other pharmacotherapies with stronger evidence of efficacy, such as SSRIs, and finding them ineffective or intolerable.
Similarly, Nefazodone is also recommended as a second-line treatment for patients with PTSD. It can be considered after attempting first-line PTSD psychotherapies or other pharmacotherapies with more evidence of efficacy, like SSRIs, and discovering them to be ineffective or intolerable.
It’s essential to be cautious, though, as Nefazodone carries potentially serious toxicities that require careful management. Indications for Discontinuation: Lack of efficacy, adverse effects, non- compliance, resolution of PTSD sufficiently to not require medication \
Bupropion is not recommended for the treatment of patients with PTSD. There is evidence against the use of Bupropion in this context.
Benzodiazepines
Alprazolam, Clonazepam, and Temazepam are not recommended for the treatment of patients with PTSD. There is evidence against their use in this context.
