Effects of escitalopram on synaptic density in the healthy human brain: a randomized controlled trial.

ABSTRACT: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are widely used for treating neuropsychiatric disorders. However, the exact mechanism of action and why effects can take several weeks to manifest is not clear. The hypothesis of neuroplasticity is supported by preclinical studies, but the evidence in humans is limited. Here, we investigate the effects of the SSRI escitalopram on presynaptic density as a proxy for synaptic plasticity. In a double-blind placebo-controlled study (NCT04239339), 32 healthy participants with no history of psychiatric or cognitive disorders were randomized to receive daily oral dosing of either 20 mg escitalopram (n = 17) or a placebo (n = 15). After an intervention period of 3-5 weeks, participants underwent a [¹¹C]UCB-J PET scan (29 with full arterial

SUBMITTER: Johansen A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10827655 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature