Does SSRI have a neuroprotective effect in patent after ischemic stroke?

Abstract

Introduction and purpose:

Ischemic stroke accounts for the majority of all stroke cases, with recurrence rates of around 12% within the first year, rising to around 30% within five years.

Thrombolytic therapy based on the intravenous administration of rtPA (recombinant plasminogen activator) is the only treatment that has been proven to improve treatment outcomes after ischemic stroke. New methods that would increase the number of motor function returns are still being sought.

A brief description of the state of knowledge: 

SSRIs, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors are used primarily in the treatment of depression and emotional lability after stroke. Many clinical and preclinical studies have suggested that SSRIs have a beneficial effect on the outcomes of stroke patients.

Our work is a brief overview of the current knowledge and clinical trials conducted. Review of the available literature using the PubMed database. Search criteria for scientific articles published from 2010 to 2020, search term: "SSRI ischaemic stroke". Ultimately, 12 randomized clinical trials were analyzed (3 articles apply for one study). One of the studies does not have unequivocal results.

Conclusions: The safety of SSRIs in stroke patients has been confirmed. Further multi-center studies are required to investigate the neuroprotective role of SSRIs.