Bromocriptine and speech therapy in non-fluent chronic aphasia after stroke

Neurol Sci. 2000 Feb;21(1):19-22. doi: 10.1007/s100720070114.

Abstract

The objectives of this study were to investigate the efficacy of bromocriptine (BR) combined with speech therapy (ST) to improve a late recovery in non-fluent aphasic stroke patients. We performed a double-blind study with high dosage of BR, prescribed according to a dose-escalating protocol, comprehensive of clinical data, relatives' impression, and language evaluations. The study was divided into the following phases: t-0, inclusion; t-30, language re-test to evaluate the stability of aphasia; t-90, placebo (PL) and ST; t-150, BR and ST; t-210, BR; t-270, wash-out. With respect to the baseline assessment, a significant improvement was observed in the following tests: dictation (F, 4.8; p < .004), reading-comprehension (F, 8.1; p < .0003), repetition (F, 3.8; p < .01) and verbal latency (F, 4.9; p < .01). High dosage of BR promoted a late recovery in stable chronic non-fluent aphasia and this improvement was enhanced by combination with ST.

Publication types

  • Clinical Trial

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aphasia / drug therapy*
  • Aphasia / etiology
  • Aphasia / rehabilitation*
  • Bromocriptine / therapeutic use*
  • Chronic Disease
  • Cohort Studies
  • Dopamine Agonists / therapeutic use*
  • Double-Blind Method
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Speech Therapy*
  • Stroke / complications*
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Dopamine Agonists
  • Bromocriptine