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Researchers at the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago have found that using the antidepressant Lexapro® (escitalopram) along with an intensive physical therapy regimen can help patients with partial spinal cord injuries walk better and faster. The findings are the first of their kind in humans, after similar results were found in animal models. Lexapro affects serotonin, a chemical in the brain and nervous system responsible for relaying messages. The medication seemingly helps strengthen the remaining nerve connections along the spine and to the brain, helping patients to have improved control over their muscle coordination during physical therapy.
In the study, 50 people who had partial ability to move one year after suffering a spinal cord injury were given either Lexapro or placebo prior to their physical therapy to study the effects of the antidepressant on recovery. Physical therapy consisted of an eight-week walking program on a motorized treadmill with aid from a physical therapist. Both groups saw improvement; however, the group taking Lexapro was able to walk at a much faster pace. Researchers believe that the medication may also work to generate muscle spasms, typically seen as a negative side effect. In this case, the spasms act as muscle reflexes, which patients with spinal cord injuries control to help them walk. More studies need to be done with other antidepressants to find out which medication works best; however, it seems that therapy with medications affecting serotonin in combination with physical training is promising in this patient population.
References:
Steenhuysen, J. Antidepressant improves recovery from spine injury. Reuters. Published: 10/18/2009. Accessed: 3/23/2010.
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