Dissociation : Vol. 3, No. 3, p. 144-150 : Unusual medication regimens in the treatment of dissociative disorder patients: part I: noradrenergic agents
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Date
1990-09
Authors
Braun, Bennett G.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Ridgeview Institute and the International Society for the Study of Multiple Personality and Dissociation
Abstract
The noradrenergic agents propranolol and to a lesser extent, clonidine, are used in an experimental setting to reduce switching and anxiety in dissociative disorder patients, making them better candidates for psychotherapy. The rationale for this non-FDA-approved use of the drugs is founded in the James-Lange and Cannon-Bard theories of emotion. It is hypothesized further that the mechanisms proposed by the two theories are reinforcing of one another via classical conditioning in the production and reinforcement of chronic, severe anxiety responses. The effect of propranolol and clonidine can complement the effect of benzodiazepines in these patients. In the experimental protocol described, propranolol or clonidine is sometimes used at ultrahigh doses, with patients always under close medical supervision.
Description
p. 144-150