RecruitingPhase 2NCT03728673

A Study Utilizing Escitalopram in Glioma Patients

A Pilot Study Utilizing Escitalopram to Address Cognitive Dysfunction in Glioma Patients

Sponsor

University of Nebraska

Enrollment

20 participants

Start Date

Mar 6, 2019

Study Type

INTERVENTIONAL

Conditions

Glioma Glioma of Brain

Summary

Glioma is a cancer of glial cells, a class of tissue supporting neuronal function in the brain. As many as 85% of glioma patients experience cognitive impairment. This is not only from direct tumor involvement, but also from therapy such as cranial radiation and chemotherapy, which degrades neuronal function. There is evidence that serotonin selective reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as escitalopram, improve cognition or prevent cognitive decline and may also improve outcomes critical to overall survival including functional independence, psychosocial stability, and quality of life. This pilot study will evaluate the effectiveness of the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) escitalopram for treating cognitive impairment in newly diagnosed grade IV glioma over a 17 week treatment period.

Eligibility

Min Age: 19 Years

Plain Language Summary

Simplified for easier understanding

This trial is studying whether a common antidepressant called escitalopram (also known as Lexapro) can help people with a serious type of brain cancer called Grade IV glioma (glioblastoma) during their cancer treatment. **You may be eligible if...** - You have been diagnosed with Grade IV glioma (the most aggressive type of brain tumor) - You are newly diagnosed and about to receive chemotherapy and/or radiation - You are 19 years or older - Your overall health is reasonably good (ECOG performance status 0–2) - Your life expectancy is greater than 6 months - You are able to give written consent **You may NOT be eligible if...** - You have a prior diagnosis of brain cancer or have already started treatment for this glioma - You are pregnant or breastfeeding - You have a history of severe allergic reactions to escitalopram or similar drugs - You have certain heart rhythm problems Talk to your doctor to see if this trial is right for you.

This summary was AI-generated to explain the trial in plain language. It is not medical advice. Always discuss eligibility with your doctor before enrolling in a clinical trial.

Interested in this trial?

Get notified about updates and connect with the research team.