Objective: Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is one of the most prevalent psychological disorders. Methods to alleviate its symptoms range from ‘talking therapies’ to pharmaceutical interventions. Our objective was to carry out a systematic review of the effectiveness of sertraline, an SSRI, as a treatment for PTSD.Method: Databases were searched to identify relevant research on sertraline as a treatment for PTSD.Results: Five randomised control trials were identified, along with seven open trials and case series studies.Conclusions: The review and meta-analysis supported the use of sertraline for PTSD though further research on sub-group differences (eg. gender) is required.

Forensic patients need not be at increased risk of QTc abnormality provided risk factors are properly managed. A high dose of antipsychotic medication increases the risk of QTc prolongation.