An antidepressant slowed brain tumor cells in lab tests
Original title: The Antidepressant Vortioxetine Potently Inhibits Cell Growth in Cultured Human Glioblastoma Cells Expressing 5-HT1B Serotonin Receptors.
How far along is this research?
- Lab cells
- Animals
- Review
- Tested in people
This was done on cells in a lab, not in people. It is a very early step.
This was done only on cells in a lab dish, not in people.
The short version
In lab dishes, an antidepressant drug stopped brain tumor cells from growing.
What was studied. Researchers tested the antidepressant vortioxetine on five sets of glioblastoma: The fastest-growing type of glioma (grade 4). Treatment usually starts soon after diagnosis: surgery first, then radiation and chemotherapy. See the glossary cells. The cells came from patients and were grown in a lab.
What they found. Vortioxetine slowed the growth of the tumor cells. It worked at a low dose, close to the dose used to treat depression. Two other antidepressants only worked at much higher doses.
What this means, and what it doesn't
What it could mean: Vortioxetine is already used to treat depression. That could make it easier to study in people later. But this work was done only on cells in a dish. It does not tell us if the drug helps people with brain tumors.
What it doesn't mean: This does not mean vortioxetine treats brain tumors. The tests were done on cells in a lab, not in people. No one knows yet if it helps or is safe for tumors. This is not a cure. Do not start or change any medicine on your own. Ask your doctor first.
Source: PubMed, July 24, 2026 · Read the original
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