French researchers have found that a single dose of the antidepressant drug Prozac appears to boost the motor skills of patients after a stroke. However, it is not yet clear if the benefits seen in the small study -- an increase in test performance 5 hours after taking the drug -- translate into long-term benefits.
Stroke occurs when a blood flow to an area of the brain is cut off, either through a clot or breakage of a blood vessel. Depending on which part of the brain is damaged, stroke can impair language, reasoning, motor and other abilities.
According to researchers Prozac has been found to improve motor skills in animals after a stroke, but it has not been well studied in humans.
The patients underwent a functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) test, which measured their brain activity while they performed motor tasks with the side of the body that had been impacted by the stroke. The fMRI test showed increased activity in the area of the brain governing motor function after taking Prozac.
Annals of Neurology 2001;50:718-729
This data opens a new field, which is the treatment of recovery after stroke. Of course, the drug companies believe it is another bonanza increase in revenues for them as they will have even more people that should be on their drugs.
It is quite amazing that these drugs would work in stroke recovery and I believe it is an amazing testimony to the incredible potential that mind body has in recovering from what appears to be purely physical issues.
There is no question in my mind that if Prozac would work for this EFT would be even better. EFT is less expensive, more rapid and tends to be permanent.
I have very few stroke patients in my practice and have not yet had a chance to try it for this indication. However, I have used it successfully for a fair number of multiple sclerosis patients and patients with tremors.
If you know anyone with stroke you will certainly want to consider using EFT for them.
My EFT workshop is also now available on video for those who would like to do it for themselves.