Related Experiment Videos
Citalopram augmentation of antipsychotic treatment in older schizophrenia patients
J W Kasckow1, S Mohamed, A Thallasinos
1University of Cincinnati, USA.
Background:
Depressive symptoms are common in older patients with schizophrenia; yet, few studies have examined the usefulness of antidepressants in this population.
Objective:
We conducted a 10-week single-blind trial of citalopram (20-40 mg/day) vs no citalopram augmentation in 19 middle-aged and elderly patients with schizophrenia hospitalized for more than six of the last 12 months. At study-entry, the patients had been on stable doses of antipsychotics for at least two weeks, and had a 17-item Hamilton Depression Rating (HAM-D) scale score of 12 or greater. Nine patients were randomly assigned to citalopram augmentation, and 10 to no augmentation of antipsychotics.
Results:
Patients in both groups improved on positive and negative symptoms, but the citalopram group had significantly greater improvement in HAM-D and Clinical Global Impression Scale scores than the control group. There were no major side effects.
Conclusion:
Larger double-blind studies are needed to follow up on these preliminary findings.
Related Concept Videos
Psychosis: Goals of Pharmacotherapy
Psychosis and Antipsychotic Drugs: Overview
Drug Therapy
Antianxiety Medications
Antidepressant Drugs: MAOIs and Other Agents
Parkinson's Disease: Treatment
Parkinson's Disease is primarily a result of the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta. The cornerstone of its...
Antipsychotic Drugs: Therapeutic Uses and Side Effects
Despite these side effects, antipsychotics are used therapeutically for various purposes, including managing schizophrenia, preventing nausea and vomiting, curbing...