CITALOPRAM, A SELECTIVE SEROTONIN REUPTAKE INHIBITOR, IN THE TREATMENT OF AGGRESSION IN SCHIZOPHRENIA

The aim of this double-blind cross-over study was to investigate wheth er treatment with the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, citalopr am reduces aggressiveness in chronically violent schizophrenic inpatie nts. Initially 19 patients were enrolled into this double-blind cross- over study in which the patients were treated for 24 weeks with placeb o and 24 weeks with citalopram (20-60 mg/day) as a supplement to their previous neuroleptic medication. Fourteen patients completed the enti re study, but sufficient data on 15 patients could be used in the end- point analysis of efficacy. Psychiatric assessments (Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale, Clinical Global Impression Scale for Severity of Illnes s, Social Dysfunction and Aggression Scale and the Global Aggression S cale) and side effects (UKU Side Effect Scale) were recorded at baseli ne and 4 times during both periods. Aggressive incidents (Staff Observ ation Aggression Scale) were recorded throughout the study. During cit alopram treatment, the frequency of aggressive incidents was significa ntly lower and the mental state did not deteriorate. Patients either e xperienced no side effects or else side effects were equally mild duri ng both periods.