Abstract
Background: Intensive, task-oriented motor training has been associated with neuroplastic reorganization and improved upper extremity movement function after stroke. However, to optimize such training for people with moderate-to-severe movement impairment, pharmacological modulation of neuroplasticity may be needed as an adjuvant intervention. Objective: Evaluate safety, as well as improvement in movement function, associated with motor training paired with a drug to upregulate neuroplasticity after stroke. Methods: In this double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study, 12 subjects with chronic stroke received either atomoxetine or placebo paired with motor training. Safety was assessed using vital signs. Upper extremity movement function was assessed using Fugl-Meyer Assessment, Wolf Motor Function Test, and Action Research Arm Test at baseline, post-intervention, and 1-month follow-up. Results: No significant between-groups differences were found in mean heart rate (95 CI, -12.4-22.6; p=0.23), mean systolic blood pressure (95 CI, -1.7-29.6; p=0.21), or mean diastolic blood pressure (95 CI, -10.4-13.3; p=0.08). A statistically significant between-groups difference on Fugl-Meyer at post-intervention favored the atomoxetine group (95 CI, 1.6-12.7; p=0.016). Conclusion: Atomoxetine combined with motor training appears safe and may optimize motor training outcomes after stroke.
Original language | English |
---|---|
Pages (from-to) | 1-10 |
Number of pages | 10 |
Journal | Restorative Neurology and Neuroscience |
Volume | 35 |
Issue number | 1 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - 2017 |
Bibliographical note
Publisher Copyright:© 2017 - IOS Press and the authors.
Keywords
- Upper extremity
- motor training
- neurorehabilitation
- occupational therapy
- safety
- vital signs
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Neurology
- Developmental Neuroscience
- Clinical Neurology