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Augmentation with open-label atomoxetine for partial or nonresponse to antidepressants
Linda L Carpenter1, Nada Milosavljevic, Jordan M Schecter
1Mood Disorders Research Program, Butler Hospital, Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Brown Medical School, Providence, RI 02906, USA. Linda_Carpenter_MD@Brown.edu
The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry
|November 2, 2005
Summary
Atomoxetine, a norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, showed promise as an antidepressant augmentation strategy. In a case series, 60% of patients achieved a positive response, indicating potential for treating depression.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Atomoxetine is a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor used for ADHD.
- Norepinephrine-enhancing compounds have demonstrated antidepressant efficacy.
- This study investigates atomoxetine's role in augmenting antidepressant therapy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate atomoxetine as an augmentation agent for patients with depression who have not fully responded to standard antidepressants.
- To assess the efficacy and tolerability of atomoxetine in this patient population.
Main Methods:
- Open-label, case series design.
- Fifteen adult outpatients with depressive disorders received atomoxetine augmentation.
- Atomoxetine was added to existing antidepressant regimens and titrated based on response.
Main Results:
- 73% of patients completed at least 6 weeks of treatment.
- 60% of patients met criteria for a positive categorical response.
- Significant improvements in depressive symptom scores and functioning were observed; activation was the most common side effect.
Conclusions:
- Atomoxetine demonstrates potential as an antidepressant augmentation strategy.
- Further research is needed to confirm these findings.
- The study suggests atomoxetine may be a viable option for treatment-resistant depression.