Using citalopram to protect brain function in Parkinson's disease

Citalopram as a posterior cortical protective therapy in Parkinson disease

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR · NIH-10817773

This study is looking at whether citalopram, a medication that helps with mood, can slow down memory and thinking problems in people with Parkinson's disease who also have dementia, by exploring how it affects certain areas of the brain important for visual and spatial skills.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR (nih funded)
Locations1 site (ANN ARBOR, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10817773 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the potential of citalopram, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, to delay cognitive decline in patients with Parkinson's disease who also experience dementia. The study focuses on understanding how non-dopaminergic changes affect the brain's posterior cortical regions, which are crucial for visuospatial functions. By examining the relationship between serotonin levels and cognitive impairment, the research aims to provide a new therapeutic approach for managing cognitive symptoms in Parkinson's disease. Participants will be monitored for changes in cognitive function and brain health over the course of the trial.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Parkinson's disease who are experiencing cognitive decline or dementia.

Not a fit: Patients with Parkinson's disease who do not exhibit cognitive decline or those with other forms of dementia unrelated to Parkinson's may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment options that help preserve cognitive function in patients with Parkinson's disease and dementia.

How similar studies have performed: Previous observational studies have suggested that SSRIs like citalopram may reduce the risk of cognitive decline in Parkinson's disease, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

ANN ARBOR, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.