Related Experiment Videos
Cognitive therapy and pharmacotherapy for depression.
S D Hollon1, R C Shelton, P T Loosen
1Department of Psychology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37240.
Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology
|February 1, 1991
Summary
Cognitive therapy (CT) shows promise for depression treatment, potentially matching pharmacotherapy for acute episodes and reducing relapse risk. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings for cognitive therapy effectiveness.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry and Behavioral Science
- Clinical Psychology
Background:
- Cognitive therapy (CT) is increasingly recognized for its potential in treating depression.
- Pharmacotherapy, particularly tricyclic antidepressants, is a common treatment for depression.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the efficacy of cognitive therapy (CT) with tricyclic pharmacotherapy for nonbipolar depression.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of combined CT and pharmacotherapy.
- To assess the impact of CT on relapse rates after acute treatment.
Main Methods:
- Comparative study design involving nonbipolar outpatients.
- Assessment of treatment outcomes for acute depressive episodes.
- Evaluation of relapse rates following termination of acute treatment.
Main Results:
- Cognitive therapy (CT) demonstrated comparable effectiveness to tricyclic pharmacotherapy in treating acute depressive episodes.
- Combined CT and pharmacotherapy did not show clear superiority over monotherapy, though some potential for enhancement was noted.
- CT administered during the acute phase, alone or with medication, may decrease the risk of subsequent relapse.
Conclusions:
- Cognitive therapy (CT) is a promising alternative to pharmacotherapy for depression, but requires further rigorous testing.
- Existing evidence suggests CT is a viable option for acute depression and relapse prevention.
- Limitations in study design and power necessitate cautious interpretation of current findings on CT for depression.