D-Cycloserine + Prolonged Imaginal Exposure

D-Cycloserine + Prolonged Imaginal Exposure is a combination treatment being investigated for combat-related post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It pairs the pharmaceutical agent D-Cycloserine (DCS), a small molecule NMDA receptor partial agonist, with Prolonged Imaginal Exposure (PE), a form of cognitive-behavioral therapy. DCS acts as a cognitive enhancer by targeting the glycine binding site of the NMDA receptor, which is thought to facilitate the neural processes of fear extinction and neuroplasticity. When administered shortly before a PE session, DCS is intended to strengthen the learning that occurs during the therapy, potentially leading to a more rapid and robust reduction in PTSD symptoms compared to therapy alone. This specific combination has been evaluated in Phase 3 clinical trials sponsored by Weill Medical College of Cornell University.

Other names

DCS + Prolonged Imaginal ExposureD-Cycloserine + PED-Cycloserine + Prolonged Imaginal ExposureProlonged Imaginal Exposure-Weill Medical College of Cornell University-post-traumatic stress disorder