Can a common heart drug stop PTSD before it starts?
NCT ID NCT07452978
First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study tests whether the blood pressure medication propranolol can prevent post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in women who have experienced sexual violence. 34 women will receive either propranolol or a placebo within 72 hours of the assault, then take it for about three weeks. Researchers will check for PTSD symptoms five weeks later to see if the drug helps reduce traumatic memories.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- Propranolol
- What this could lead to
- If it works, this could point toward a simple, short-term medication to prevent PTSD after trauma.
- What could go wrong
- This is a very small, early pilot study with only 34 participants. The drug may not reduce PTSD risk, and side effects like low blood pressure or fatigue are possible.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
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