Cortisol and the Formation of Intrusive Memories

Intrusive Memories Clinical Trial

Official title: Cortisol and the Formation of Intrusive Memories: An Experimental Approach With a Trauma Film Paradigm

Status Completed

Clinical Trial Summary

Intrusive memories of traumatic events are core features of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) but little is known about the neurobiological formation of intrusions. The aim of this study was to determine whether cortisol levels during an intrusion-inducing stressor influence subsequent intrusive memories.

Clinical Trial Description

The investigators conducted an experimental, double-blind, placebo-controlled study in 60 healthy women. Prior to watching an established trauma film paradigm that induces short lasting intrusions, participants received a single dose of either 10 mg hydrocortisone or placebo. The number of consecutive intrusions of the trauma film, the mean vividness of the intrusions and the mean degree of distress evoked by the intrusions were assessed during the following seven days. Salivary cortisol and alpha-amylase were collected at seven time points prior to, and after the trauma film. ;

Study Design

Allocation: Randomized, Intervention Model: Parallel Assignment, Masking: Double Blind (Subject, Investigator), Primary Purpose: Basic Science

Related Conditions & MeSH terms

• Intrusive Memories

• NCT number: NCT02552654
• Study type: Interventional
• Source: Charite University, Berlin, Germany
• Status: Completed
• Phase: N/A
• Start date: September 2015
• Completion date: January 2016