SSRIs and TDCS Enhance Post-stroke Motor Recovery

Launched by CHIH-WEI TANG · Sep 10, 2021

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

The clinical trial titled "SSRIs and tDCS Enhance Post-stroke Motor Recovery" is exploring how a combination of a treatment called transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) and a common antidepressant, citalopram, can help improve movement and recovery in individuals who have recently had a stroke. Researchers are particularly interested in patients who are between 20 and 80 years old, have had their first stroke, and are experiencing moderate to severe difficulty using their arms. The trial will focus on participants who are 3 days to 4 weeks post-stroke and have a specific type of stroke confirmed by brain imaging.

If you or a loved one are interested in participating, you should be aware that this study is not yet recruiting participants. Eligible individuals will receive daily motor training along with the tDCS treatment, which is a safe, non-invasive method that uses low electrical currents to stimulate the brain. It’s important to note that those with certain medical conditions, such as metal implants, a history of epilepsy, or severe mental health issues, may not be able to join the trial. This research aims to find new ways to enhance recovery after a stroke, which could significantly improve the quality of life for many patients.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • aged 20-80;
• • first-onset stroke
• • brain image confirmed unilateral subcortical infarction
• • moderate to severe upper-limb impairment (SAFE score \<8).
• • 3 days to 4 weeks after stroke onset
• • stable medical condition
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • metal implants, such as electrodes or pacemaker
• • epilepsy history or active spikes from EEG recording
• • major depression or taking psychoactive drugs
• • alcoholism or drug abuse history
• • combined with other severe neurological or psychiatric diagnoses
• • pregnancy or breastfeeding;
• • other contraindications to brain MRI, such as severe claustrophobia
• • intolerance to electrical stimulation