Serotonin Selective Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI) Effects on Cerebral Connectivity in Acute Ischemic Stroke

Resting State MRI Connectivity in Acute Ischemic Stroke: Serotonin Selective Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI) in Enhancing Motor Recovery: a Placebo Controlled Study

Fluoxetine action on cerebral connectivity changes in acute ischemic stroke patients

In this placebo-controlled study, using functional resting state MRI, the investigators aim to investigate cerebral connectivity changes induced by fluoxetine given once a day for 90 days, in stroke patients with a moderate to severe motor deficit.

Inclusion Criteria:

• First-ever ischemic stroke
• Cortical or subcortical stroke
• National Institute of Health Stroke Scale NIHSS>12 or motor NIHSS>6 at inclusion
• MRI-proved ischemic stroke

Exclusion Criteria:

• pregnant or breast-feeding women
• alcoholism
• ongoing Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor treatment or interruption < 1 month
• allergic reaction after SSRI administration
• MRI contraindication
• NIHSS>22
• Severe aphasia
• Coma