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Treatment for Cigarette Smokers with PTSD

NOW OPEN FOR ENROLLMENT

Are you bothered by traumatic memories? Are you experiencing any of the following: Avoiding reminders of an upsetting experience Feeling anxious or jumpy Having nightmares or flashbacks Trouble sleeping Are you smoking and want to quit?

If you answered “yes” to all three questions, you may be eligible for treatment at no cost as part of a research program at the University of Pennsylvania.

The Center for the Treatment and Study of Anxiety at the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Medicine is offering research treatment for smokers with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) who want to quit smoking.

The study involves assessment and 12 weeks of treatment with varenicline, counseling, and prolonged exposure therapy. Varenicline is an FDA approved medication for smoking cessation. The counseling is aimed at helping you to stop smoking. Prolonged exposure is a type of psychotherapy that has been found effective in the treatment of PTSD.

Men and women over the age of 18 who have both PTSD and who smoke cigarettes are eligible to participate in this study. Financial compensation available.

For more information about participation or for a phone screening, contact the Center for the Treatment and Study of Anxiety in Philadelphia at 215-746-3327.

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