Veterans' PTSD study seeks best treatment match

NCT ID NCT04961190

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study compares three proven PTSD treatments—talk therapy (prolonged exposure), antidepressant medication (paroxetine or venlafaxine), and their combination—in 304 veterans. Researchers aim to identify which treatment works best for whom, using personalized algorithms. Participants receive up to 14 weeks of treatment and are followed for 40 weeks to track PTSD symptoms, depression, and quality of life.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

paroxetine (Paxil) or venlafaxine XR (Effexor XR)

What this could lead to

If successful, this study could help doctors choose the most effective PTSD treatment for each veteran, improving recovery and quality of life.

What could go wrong

This is a Phase 4 trial comparing existing treatments, so it won't introduce a new cure. Results may not apply to non-veterans or those with different trauma types.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

post-traumatic stress disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Birmingham VA Healthcare System

    Birmingham, Alabama, 35233, United States

  • Coatesville VA Medicial Center

    Coatesville, Pennsylvania, 19320, United States

  • Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical Center

    Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104, United States

  • Milwaukee VA Medical Center

    Milwaukee, Wisconsin, 53295, United States

  • VA North Texas Healthcare System

    Dallas, Texas, 75216, United States

  • VA Palo Alto Healthcare System

    Menlo Park, California, 94025, United States

  • VA San Diego Healthcare System

    San Diego, California, 92161, United States