Therapy for prevention of post-stroke depression.

INTRODUCTION: Depression is the most common psychiatric disorder after stroke that adversely affects stroke outcomes. It is often underdiagnosed and inadequately treated. Hence, there is growing interest in interventions to prevent depression in stroke patients, which is in concert with emerging data that indicate prevention of major depression in selective high-risk populations may be effective. AREAS COVERED: This article reviews the state of the current literature on pharmacologic and psychosocial preventive intervention strategies for depression in stroke patients. EXPERT OPINION: The emerging data indicate that antidepressants and psychological therapies may be effective and safe in preventing post-stroke depression. More well-designed preventive trials are required to determine the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of preventive interventions targeting stroke patients, who are a high-risk group for depression.