In a nutshell
This review summarized data from several trials which looked at antidepressant therapy for patients with post-stroke depression. The authors concluded that there is a potential benefit of antidepressant drugs for these patients.
Some background
Post-stroke depression (PSD) is a common occurrence after stroke. The main risk factors for PSD are degree of disability and poor support network. PSD can lead to a reduced quality of life for patients. It can also lead to poor cognitive activity and impede rehabilitation. There is limited data available on the effectiveness of antidepressant drugs for PSD.
Methods & findings
The authors carried out a meta-analysis (analysis of multiple studies) on trials which looked at antidepressant treatment for patients with PSD. Eleven trials were included. These included 740 patients where 393 were treated with antidepressant drugs and 347 were treated with placebo (substance with no active effect).
There was a significant decrease in depression symptoms following treatment with antidepressant drugs compared to placebo. In addition, there was a 36% higher chance of symptom improvement with antidepressant therapy.
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) are types of antidepressant drugs which showed the most benefit. The benefits were also greater in older patients and women.
There were some side effects associated with antidepressant therapy including headaches, dizziness, gastrointestinal tract problems and reduced liver health.
The bottom line
The authors conclude that antidepressant therapy appears to be beneficial for patients with PSD. They recommend caution however due to the presence of side effects in some patients.
Published By :
Medicine
Date :
Nov 01, 2016
