A Study Utilizing Escitalopram in Glioma Patients

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA · Oct 30, 2018

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying the effects of a medication called escitalopram, which is a type of antidepressant, on patients with Grade IV glioma, a serious type of brain tumor. Over the course of about 17 weeks, researchers will assess how this medication impacts patients' thinking abilities and overall well-being. This study aims to gather information on whether escitalopram can help improve the mental and emotional health of glioma patients who are also receiving chemotherapy or radiation treatment.

To participate in the trial, patients must be at least 19 years old and have a confirmed diagnosis of Grade IV glioma. They should be planning to start chemotherapy or radiation and have a good performance status, meaning they can carry out daily activities with minimal assistance. However, patients who have severe kidney problems, are currently taking other antidepressants, or have certain other health issues will not be eligible. Participants can expect regular assessments throughout the study to monitor any changes in their cognitive abilities and psychosocial well-being.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Pathologically proven diagnosis of Grade IV glioma
• • Newly diagnosed disease to receive chemotherapy and/or radiation
• • Performance status Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) 0-2 or equivalent
• • 19 years of age or older
• • Life expectancy greater than 6 months
• • Able to provide written informed consent for study participation
• • Negative urine pregnancy test at enrollment for females of childbearing potential
• • Female participants must be either post-menopausal (free from menses for 2 or more years), surgically sterilized, or willing to use two adequate barrier forms of contraception
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Hemifield defects (obscures visual field necessary to participate in all tests)
• • Inability to undergo MRI
• • Severe renal impairment defined as Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) \<30 mL/minute
• • Screen positive for depression or anxiety
• • Already taking an anti-depressant (SSRI or NSRI)
• • Have problems tolerating past treatment with SSRI or NSRIs