Anti depressant 'assists stroke recovery'

An anti-depressant could boost motor ability in those recovering from a stroke, according to research.

A study published in The Lancet Neurology found that fluoxetine reduced brain inflammation and increased levels of serotonin in the brains of stroke patients, aiding recovery.

Researchers found that of the 118 ischaemic stroke patients in France, the half who were given the drug were more likely to regain control of their motor function 90 days later than those given a placebo.

In addition, they were more likely to recover to a level where they were able to live independently and less likely to be depressed.

Meanwhile, a new drug to tackle strokes in over-50s could bring hope to many, reports say.

The Guardian reports that the polypill, which is currently being trialled in the UK, is a daily tablet containing a number of low dose drugs intended to cut cholesterol and low blood pressure.

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