Abstract
Background. A majority of stroke patients have persisting motor deficits despite ongoing physiotherapy. Therefore, additional treatment options are desirable. Objective. We investigated if the serotonin reuptake inhibitor, citalopram, would improve motor functions in chronic stroke patients. Methods. In all, 8 patients >6 months after their stroke participated in a double-blind, placebo-controlled, single-dose crossover experiment. The order (first drug then placebo or vice versa) was randomized. Sessions were separated by at least 2 weeks. Motor function was assessed by nine-hole peg test, and measurements of hand grip-strength before drug intake, 2 hours after drug intake, and after 1 hour of training aimed at improving the function of the paretic hand. Results. Compared with placebo, citalopram intake significantly improved performance of the nine-hole peg test for the paretic hand but not for the unaffected hand. Hand grip-strength remained unchanged. Conclusions. A single dose of citalopram can enhance dexterity in chronic stroke patients. This pilot study justifies a test of efficacy of citalopram in a larger group of stroke patients.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
