Arai K, Nonaka M, Shimada S, Nakamura M. Vortioxetine as a potential alternative for patients with escitalopram-induced jitteriness/anxiety syndrome: A report of three cases.
PCN REPORTS : PSYCHIATRY AND CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES 2023;
2:e158. [PMID:
38868737 PMCID:
PMC11114283 DOI:
10.1002/pcn5.158]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
Background
Jitteriness/anxiety syndrome is a recognized adverse effect observed during the initiation or change of dose in antidepressant treatment. Managing patients who develop this syndrome remains a challenge. While escitalopram is a widely used antidepressant known to cause these symptoms, this report explores vortioxetine as a therapeutic alternative.
Case Presentation
Three distinct clinical scenarios were observed in patients who manifested jitteriness/anxiety syndrome while on escitalopram treatment for depression. Patient A was initiated on escitalopram and experienced an initial alleviation in depressive symptoms, but 3 months later displayed mood elevation, talkativeness, and increased activity, which disturbed his daily life. A transition to vortioxetine subsequently resolved the mood elevation. Patient B exhibited elevated mood, hyperactivity, irritability, and talkativeness just 6 days post-initiation of treatment with escitalopram. After the discontinuation of escitalopram and unsuccessful trials with aripiprazole, lurasidone, and lamotrigine, her depressive mood intensified, culminating in suicidal ideation. Starting vortioxetine led to a consistent improvement of her symptoms, and she resumed work and was emotionally stable. Patient C was initially diagnosed with bipolar disorder and faced a relapse into depression despite undergoing various treatments. After 2 weeks on escitalopram, she exhibited irritability and self-harm urges. Three months later, after being re-diagnosed with depressive disorders with anxious distress, vortioxetine was administered, which significantly reduced her depressive symptoms and allowed her to continue her education.
Conclusion
Vortioxetine presents as a promising therapeutic alternative that is worth considering for patients with escitalopram-induced jitteriness/anxiety syndrome.
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