NCT03843463 · Johns Hopkins University
Escitalopram and Language Intervention for Subacute Aphasia
(ELISA)
What this study is about
In this project, the investigators will investigate the effects of a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), escitalopram, on augmenting language therapy effectiveness, as measured by naming untrained pictures and describing pictures, in individuals with aphasia in the acute and subacute post stroke period (i.e., within three months post stroke).
View original scientific description
In this project, the investigators will investigate the effects of a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), escitalopram, on augmenting language therapy effectiveness, as measured by naming untrained pictures and describing pictures, in individuals with aphasia in the acute and subacute post stroke period (i.e., within three months post stroke).
Interventions
DRUG
Escitalopram 10mg
Escitalopram tablet
DRUG
Placebo
Sugar pill manufactured to mimic escitalopram 10 mg tablet
BEHAVIORAL
Computer-delivered naming treatment
15 45-minute sessions of computer-delivered naming treatment beginning two months following stroke
Primary outcome measures
Change in Philadelphia Naming Test short-form accuracy score
Time frame: Baseline, 1 week after computer-delivered naming treatment
Number of correctly named items of 30 total items on the computerized picture naming assessment. Scores ranges from 0 to 30 with higher scores meaning better naming ability.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Participants must have sustained an acute ischemic left hemisphere stroke.
- Participants must be fluent speakers of English by self-report.
- Participants must be capable of giving informed consent or indicating a legally authorized representative to provide informed consent.
- Participants must be age 18 or older.
- Participants must be within 5 days of onset of stroke.
- Participants must be pre-morbidly right-handed by self-report.
- Participants must have an aphasia diagnosis as confirmed by the Western Aphasia Battery-Revised (Aphasia Quotient \< 93.8).
Exclusion criteria
- Previous neurological disease affecting the brain including previous symptomatic stroke
- Diagnosis of schizophrenia, autism, or other psychiatric or neurological condition that affects naming/language
- A history of additional risk factors for torsades de pointes (TdP; e.g., heart failure, hypokalemia, family history of Long QT Syndrome)
- Current severe depression, defined as a scor
Where
- Baltimore, Maryland
- Charleston, South Carolina
- Columbia, South Carolina
Collaborators
University of South Carolina, Medical University of South Carolina, University of California, Irvine, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD)
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Sep 23, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations