Single-Dose Effects of Citalopram on Neural Responses to Affective Stimuli in Borderline Personality Disorder: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Abstract Background Psychiatric medication that has a soothing effect on limbic responses to affective stimuli could improve instability symptoms as observed in borderline personality disorder (BPD). The objective of this study was investigate whether citalopram versus placebo reduces the response neural circuitry during an emotional challenge. Methods A total 30 female individuals with BPD diagnosis participated placebo-controlled, double-blind crossover trial design. Three hours after oral drug intake, viewed pictures while undergoing functional magnetic resonance imaging. Blood oxygen level–dependent images negative scenes and faces showing expressions were assessed regions interest (amygdala, anterior cingulate cortex, insula, dorsolateral prefrontal cortex). perfusion at rest arterial spin labeling. Results not significantly affected by (n = 23). Citalopram reduced amygdala 25, treatment difference left hemisphere: −0.06 ± 0.16, p Conclusions can alter BPD, which is characterized overly responsive circuitry.