Wma. Verhoeven et al., Citalopram in mentally retarded patients with depression: a long-term clinical investigation, EUR PSYCHIA, 16(2), 2001, pp. 104-108
The effect of citalopram was investigated in 20 mentally retarded patients
suffering from a depressive disorder characterized by alterations in the do
mains of affectivity, motivation, motor activity and vital signs. The study
followed a baseline-controlled open design. Citalopram was started in a da
ily dosage of 20 mg that was kept unchanged for 6 weeks. Thereafter dosage
was adjusted to maximally 60 mg per day. Treatment effects were assessed ac
cording to the Clinical Global Improvement Scale (CGIS) after at least 6 mo
nths.
In 12 of the 20 patients a moderate to marked improvement in all domains wa
s observed upon treatment with 20-40 mg citalopram daily. Treatment for one
year in the effective dose prevented recurrence of depressive symptomatolo
gy. Concomitant use of sedative anticonvulsants reduced responsiveness to t
reatment. No interactions were observed. It is concluded that citalopram is
a well-tolerated, safe and effective antidepressant in mentally retarded s
ubjects with depressive disorders. (C) 2001 Editions scientifiques et medic
ales Elsevier SAS.