Escitalopram in Asthma Patients With Frequent Exacerbation

This trial is testing whether escitalopram — a commonly prescribed antidepressant (SSRI) — can reduce the frequency of severe asthma attacks in people with difficult-to-control asthma. There is growing evidence that the nervous system and inflammation are connected in asthma, and researchers want to see if treating this pathway with an antidepressant can reduce exacerbations. **You may be eligible if...** - You are 18 to 75 years old - You have moderate to severe persistent asthma - You are already on medium to high-dose inhaled corticosteroids plus a long-acting beta-agonist (LABA) - You have had 3 or more severe asthma attacks (requiring 3 or more days of oral steroids) in the past year - Your asthma has been stable for at least 4 weeks before joining the study - You are not currently taking an antidepressant - If on biologic therapy for asthma, you must have been on it for at least 6 months **You may NOT be eligible if...** - You currently smoke or have a significant smoking history (more than 10 pack-years) - You have active depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or a substance use disorder - You are currently taking an antidepressant - You have had more than one past suicide attempt, or any attempt in the past 12 months - You are pregnant, nursing, or of childbearing age without reliable contraception - You have a severe or life-threatening medical illness likely to interfere with the study Talk to your doctor to see if this trial is right for you.