Escitalopram for Depression and Alzheimer's Prevention
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores whether treating depression with the antidepressant escitalopram (also known as Lexapro or Cipralex) can help prevent Alzheimer's disease by examining biological markers related to Alzheimer's. Participants will receive either escitalopram or a placebo to determine if reducing depression might also affect these markers. The trial seeks individuals aged 60 or older who have been diagnosed with major depressive disorder and do not have memory or cognitive issues. Participants should not have significant neurological conditions or a history of severe substance abuse. The goal is to understand if managing depression can lower the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. As a Phase 4 trial, this research involves an FDA-approved treatment and aims to understand how escitalopram benefits more patients.
Do I need to stop taking my current medications to join the trial?
You may need to stop taking certain medications to join the trial. If you are on antidepressants like fluoxetine, you will need a washout period (time without taking the medication). Some medications, like continuous aspirin or NSAIDs, must be temporarily stopped before certain procedures. If you are on stable doses of prescribed psychoactive medications, you may be able to continue them.
What is the safety track record for escitalopram?
Research has shown that escitalopram, an FDA-approved medication for major depression, is usually well-tolerated. Studies have found that it can lower levels of amyloid-β (Aβ), a protein linked to Alzheimer's disease, in the brain and spinal fluid. This suggests potential benefits beyond treating depression.
While escitalopram is generally safe, some reports mention side effects. One study linked it to a faster decline in thinking skills compared to another antidepressant, sertraline. This indicates that while escitalopram effectively treats depression, its impact on mental function should be considered, especially with long-term use.
Overall, escitalopram is widely used and considered safe for treating depression. However, discussing any concerns or possible side effects with a healthcare provider is always important.12345Why are researchers enthusiastic about this study treatment?
Escitalopram is unique because it is being explored not just as a treatment for depression, which is its typical use, but also for its potential to prevent Alzheimer's disease. Unlike most treatments that primarily focus on managing symptoms of depression, escitalopram might offer dual benefits by also targeting the mechanisms involved in Alzheimer's prevention. Researchers are excited about this possibility because it could represent a significant advancement in treating two conditions with one medication, potentially simplifying therapy and improving patient outcomes.
What is the effectiveness track record for escitalopram in treating depression and potentially preventing Alzheimer's?
Research shows that escitalopram, a type of antidepressant, can effectively reduce symptoms of depression. A review of several studies found that escitalopram significantly helped reduce depression in people with Alzheimer's disease. Other studies also found that escitalopram lowered levels of a protein linked to Alzheimer's in both mice and humans. In this trial, participants will receive either escitalopram or a placebo to evaluate its effects on depression and Alzheimer's prevention. While escitalopram has shown promise in treating depression and Alzheimer's-related issues, some research suggests that older adults taking these antidepressants might have a higher risk of developing dementia compared to those who receive talk therapy. Overall, escitalopram has been effective for depression and may also impact Alzheimer's-related markers.12367
Who Is on the Research Team?
Nunzio Pomara
Principal Investigator
NYU Langone Health
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for individuals aged 60+ with major depressive disorder and no cognitive impairment, as indicated by specific mental state and dementia rating scales. Participants must be medically stable, fluent in English, willing to undergo various tests including MRI and lumbar puncture, and not have a significant history of neurological disorders or substance abuse.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive either the SSRI antidepressant escitalopram or placebo to treat depressive symptoms
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Escitalopram Oxalate
- Placebo
Escitalopram Oxalate is already approved in United States, European Union, Canada for the following indications:
- Major depressive disorder
- Generalized anxiety disorder
- Major depressive episodes
- Generalized anxiety disorder
- Social anxiety disorder
- Panic disorder with or without agoraphobia
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder
- Major depressive disorder
- Generalized anxiety disorder
- Social anxiety disorder
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
NYU Langone Health
Lead Sponsor
National Institute on Aging (NIA)
Collaborator