Objectives: A blunted response of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis immediately after exposure to traumatic events has been proposed as a risk factor for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Accordingly, administration of hydrocortisone in the aftermath of a traumatic event is indicated. This study consisted of a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind trial investigating whether a single intravenous dose of hydrocortisone administered within 6 hours after exposure to trauma would reduce the incidence of PTSD at the 13-month follow-up.
Methods: A total of 118 consented patients with acute stress symptoms were administered a single intravenous bolus of hydrocortisone/placebo within 6 hours of the traumatic event. Blood samples were taken before hydrocortisone administration.
Results: At 13 months, the hydrocortisone group did not differ from the placebo group regarding PTSD prevalence or symptom severity. However, a significant interaction between time of the trauma (ie, night, when cortisol's level is low) and treatment was found. Specifically, a lower prevalence of PTSD was found at the 13-month follow-up in the hydrocortisone night group.
Conclusions: Administration of hydrocortisone within 6 hours of the traumatic event was not effective in preventing PTSD compared to placebo. However, nocturnal administration (when cortisol levels are low) may suggest a new venue for research.
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