Increased frequency of first-episode poststroke depression after discontinuation of escitalopram.

Mikami, Katsunaka; Jorge, Ricardo E; Moser, David J; Arndt, Stephan; Jang, Mijin; Solodkin, Ana; Small, Steven L; Fonzetti, Pasquale et al. · Stroke · 2011

rct · Level II

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Abstract

The purpose of this study was to compare escitalopram, problem-solving therapy, and placebo to prevent poststroke depression during 6 months after discontinuation of treatment. We examined for depression 33 patients assigned to placebo, 34 to escitalopram, and 41 to problem-solving therapy. After controlling for age, gender, prior mood disorder, and severity of stroke, new-onset major depression and Hamilton Depression scores were significantly higher 6 months after escitalopram was discontinued compared with the problem-solving therapy or placebo groups. Discontinuation of escitalopram may increase poststroke depressive symptoms.

Medical subject headings