Combination Of Common Medications May Lead To Stroke

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Combination Of Common Medications May Lead To Stroke

ST. PAUL, MN - The use of serotonin-enhancing drugs - including some newer

antidepressants, antimigraine agents, decongestants, diet pills, amphetamines,

and the popular drug of abuse 'ecstasy' - can precipitate cerebrovascular

syndrome (stroke) due to narrowing of cerebral blood vessels.

According to a study published in the January 8 issue of Neurology, the

scientific journal of the American Academy of Neurology, the use of multiple

serotonergic drugs can precipitate sudden, severe headaches, seizures and

stroke, particularly when combined with other vasoactive drugs.

In addition to advocating caution when combining medications that contain

serotonin enhancers, this study presents implications for the care and treatment

of patients exhibiting any of the above-mentioned symptoms, especially when

presenting with sudden-onset headaches.

" We would stress the importance of asking these patients about use of such

medications, " said study author A. B. Singhal, M.D. of the Massachusetts General

Hospital Department of Neurology.

While typical treatment of acute headaches may include use of serotonergic

drugs, patients who present with sudden-onset headaches " may be best served by

noninvasive evaluation of cerebral arteries for vasoconstriction, after

conditions like brain hemorrhage have been excluded, " suggests Singhal. " If

vasoconstriction is suspected, serotonergic agents should be discontinued. "

The American Academy of Neurology, an association of more than 17,500

neurologists and neuroscience professionals, is dedicated to improving patient

care through education and research. For more information about the American

Academy of Neurology, visit its web site at http://www.aan.com.