A world-first trial by the University of New South Wales and the University of Newcastle has found that the antidepressant sertraline may significantly reduce domestic violence reoffending in impulsive men. The study, which ran from 2013 to 2021, screened 1,738 men and randomised 630 participants to receive either sertraline or a placebo in a double-blind design.
Results showed that while the effect on general violence was inconclusive, men who took sertraline consistently experienced a 30% reduction in domestic violence reoffending over 24 months. The medication works by enhancing serotonin function, which helps regulate impulse control and emotional responses—key factors in reactive domestic violence.
The trial also included comprehensive psychosocial support, such as trauma-informed counselling, crisis support, and partner safety planning. This combination proved crucial: sertraline reduced repeated domestic violence offending by 44% compared to placebo, and 96% of partners reported maintained or increased safety.
One participant noted: 'I was in a road rage situation... any other time I would have smashed him. But I just said, “Mate, go away before the police are called”. I’ve finally got control of myself.' Another partner said: 'I used to sleep with a hammer under my bed. Since he started this medication, I can sleep more easily.'
The findings highlight the potential of combining pharmacological treatment with social support to address complex cases of domestic violence, particularly for men who have 'fallen through the cracks' of standard services.
