Veterans' PTSD study seeks best treatment match

NCT ID NCT04961190

Ongoing Symptom relief Sponsor: University of Pennsylvania Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

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.

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.

post-traumatic stress disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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

POSTTRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER

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

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