Final answer:
Antidepressants, including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and monoamine oxidase inhibitors, are the classification of medications that have been successfully used to treat PTSD. Psychotherapy is often the primary treatment, while electroconvulsive therapy and deep-brain stimulation are considered for refractory cases.
Step-by-step explanation:
The medication classification that has been used successfully to treat PTSD is antidepressants. These medications include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). SSRIs, such as sertraline, are commonly used for their ability to help alleviate the symptoms of depression, anxiety, and PTSD. They function by increasing the amount of serotonin in the brain, which can help improve mood and reduce anxiety. MAOIs are another class of antidepressants that have been used in treating PTSD. These drugs work by inhibiting the activity of certain enzymes in the brain, leading to increased levels of neurotransmitters like serotonin and norepinephrine.
While psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, is often the first line of treatment for PTSD, medications can be used as adjunctive treatments to help manage symptoms. Electroconvulsive therapy and deep-brain stimulation are more invasive treatments and are generally considered when other treatment options have not been successful. It is important to note that benzodiazepines, while they may be used to manage acute symptoms of anxiety, are not generally recommended for the long-term treatment of PTSD due to potential issues with tolerance and dependence.