Vortioxetine effectiveness in the treated major depressive disorder patients in Saudi Arabia

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is a prevalent mental health condition characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, loss of interest or pleasure, and a range of physical and cognitive symptoms. Despite the availability of various treatment options, many MDD patients continue to experience significant impairment in their daily lives.

This multicenter study aimed to evaluate the therapeutic benefits of vortioxetine in routine clinical practice for patients with MDD in Saudi Arabia.

A total of 499 eligible patients participated in the study. This is a Phase IV study that included 30 psychiatric sites across Saudi Arabia. Data collection occurred at baseline and routine visits. Patients treated with vortioxetine experienced a significant reduction in depressive symptom severity, as indicated by the PHQ-9 total score, throughout the study period (p < 0.001).

Significant improvements were also observed in various areas of functioning and cognitive depression symptoms, and safety. Results demonstrated a significant reduction in depressive symptoms, and sexual well-being, indicating vortioxetine as an effective treatment option for MDD in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region.

These findings support the real-world effectiveness of vortioxetine as a promising treatment option for MDD patients in the MEA region, highlighting its potential to reduce depressive symptoms.