Hydrocortisone for Secondary Prevention of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: A Case Report

Abstract Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is prevalent among both the civilian and military populace, causes significant burden to the healthcare system, and diminishes the quality of life of those afflicted by it. Secondary pharmacologic prevention strategies with glucocorticoids have been studied in ICU patients and those who have experienced traumatic events with some effect. This case report follows one Active-Duty Marine who was exposed to a traumatic event during an emergency medical technician shift. Following this event, he was diagnosed with Acute Stress Reaction and treated with a 10-day course and follow-on taper of oral hydrocortisone. During follow up appointments the patient symptomatically improved, returned to work without limitations, and never met criteria for PTSD. This case report provides further support for the use of hydrocortisone as secondary pharmacologic prevention of PTSD in select cases and highlights the need for increased research into the topic, especially in the military population.