hello.
my mum has PSP and is becoming increasingly distressed. It seems to be exacerbated by new staff in her care home not following her preferred routine.
Is there medication someone has found out in this community that could help her find some calmness?
Thankyou
Yes, there are many things that can be prescribed for anxiety, but even over the counter meds and herbal teas should be discussed with a doctor, since PSP can amplify sensitivity. I do sympathize. It’s hard to watch a loved one in distress.
Thankyou…. For your information and empathy.
Hi
Below is an excert from a a document regarding drugs for use with PSP an also types to avoid
The whole document can be found here
"Psychiatric features of PSP: Given the degree of disability, depression is surprisingly uncommon in PSP. Akinesia, apathy and pseudobulbar affect (below) may be confused with depression. Patients can score highly on depression rating scales (from changes in sleep, energy, motivation, libido, etc), but the core symptom of low mood is rarely severe or persistent. A minority of patients have significant and pervasive depression and anxiety. We avoid tricyclics (eg, amitriptyline) because of the anticholinergic effects. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), especially citalopram and sertraline, are well tolerated and effective, with potential additional benefits for impulsiveness and pseudobulbar affect. Mirtazapine can be particularly useful if night-time sedation or increased appetite is desirable. Note that 15 mg mirtazapine is paradoxically more sedating and less antidepressant than 30 mg. Venlafaxine (a noradrenaline/serotonin reuptake inhibitor SNRI/SSRI) may help where there is accompanying anxiety.
People with PSP may suddenly cry intensely, appearing very distressed and tearful. This pseudobulbar affect is upsetting to witness but does not always reflect a patient’s inner distress. If asked, between the tears, they may deny feeling upset, or be aware of a surge of emotionality. The emotional lability can be laughter but is more often crying. If it is frequent, or distressing, then consider treatment; low dose citalopram (10–20 mg) is usually very effective."
Good information!
I can confirm that Citalopram has been helpful and well tolerated by my husband. We recently got a higher dose (40 mg) and realised that it was best taken in the evening (the prescription said "take ONE every morning" but the calming effects has been much better in the evening and lasts through the night. 💜🫂
my husband takes Venlafaxine for his mood which the Neurologist prescribed. 75mg + 37.5mg every night
I have been diagnosed with PSP and straight away my consultant prescribed me wìth citalopram (20mg) which I believe has had a calming effect. Above all talk to your Mum's GP (primary care physician), but more importantly, your Mum's consultant about her feelings. Hugs and kisses.
Hi We had this problem in the latter phases as the condition tends to increase the agitation and frustrations of PSP A small dose (2ml liquid) of Lorazepam in the evening and a similar dose of Escitalopram (10 drops) in the morning. This is by no means a 'chemical cosh' it merely seems to calm my wife and does not have nasty side-effects.
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