Plain-English translation of NCT06194851 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated · Translation generated · How we translate trials
Phase 2 — Testing in a bigger group (up to a few hundred people) to see if the treatment actually works and is still safe.
This study is testing whether oxytocin—a naturally occurring hormone that affects how we connect with others—can enhance couples therapy for veterans with PTSD. You and your partner would receive eight weeks of specialized therapy designed for PTSD, and the veteran partner would use a nasal spray containing either oxytocin or a placebo before each session. Researchers believe the medication might help improve trust, empathy, and communication during therapy, leading to better outcomes for both PTSD symptoms and relationship satisfaction.
Many veterans with PTSD struggle not only with their trauma symptoms but also with their intimate relationships, and current treatments don't always address both issues together. This trial explores whether adding this medication might help couples therapy be more effective by making it easier for partners to connect emotionally and communicate better during treatment.
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You and your partner would commit to eight weeks of weekly couples therapy sessions, each lasting 75 minutes. Before each session, you (the veteran) would self-administer a nasal spray—either containing oxytocin or a placebo (inactive spray)—to help prepare your brain for therapy. You'll be asked to complete assessments before, during, and after the treatment to measure changes in your PTSD symptoms, relationship satisfaction, trust, empathy, and communication skills. Some sessions may be recorded to ensure therapy quality.
AI-generated summary from trial data · Jun 2, 2026 · Not medical advice
United States