Common antidepressant ‘protects’ against dementia

A common antidepressant can double as a preventive measure against dementia, a small study suggests.

The researchers say escitalopram (Lexapro) is protective against memory loss and cognitive decline. In their study blood levels of two neurotoxic compounds dropped significantly in depressed patients after treatment.

It's possible that other SSRIs, such as fluoxetine,