A placebo-controlled comparison of lithium and triiodothyronine augmentation of tricyclic antidepressants in unipolar refractory depression

Comparative efficacy, tolerability and acceptability of intravenous racemic ketamine with intranasal esketamine, aripiprazole and lithium as augmentative treatments for treatment-resistant unipolar depression: A systematic review and network meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Intravenous racemic ketamine is a promising treatment for treatment-resistant depression. However, its clinical utility compared with intranasal esketamine and the other well-studied conventional pharmacological interventions (i.e., aripiprazole and lithium) as augmentative treatments for treatment-resistant unipolar depression in adults remains unclear. Therefore, we aimed to compare the efficacy, tolerability and acceptability of intravenous racemic ketamine with intranasal esketamine, aripiprazole and lithium under such conditions.

METHODS

The Cochrane Library, PubMed, CINHAL and ClinicalTrials.gov databases were systematically searched from their inception to 10 May 2023. Randomised controlled trials evaluating these drugs were included. A random-effects network meta-analysis was also performed.

RESULTS

In the primary analysis, all four drugs were significantly more effective than placebo. In addition, intravenous racemic ketamine was significantly more effective and acceptable than intranasal esketamine and aripiprazole. Intravenous racemic ketamine was not significantly different from placebo in tolerability, whereas intranasal esketamine and aripiprazole were significantly less tolerable than placebo. Lithium did not differ significantly from intravenous racemic ketamine in efficacy, tolerability and acceptability.

LIMITATIONS

The sample size of patients treated with intravenous racemic ketamine was small.

CONCLUSIONS

Intravenous racemic ketamine may be a better augmentative treatment for treatment-resistant unipolar depression than intranasal esketamine and aripiprazole. Whether intravenous racemic ketamine or lithium is superior is unclear currently. A larger head-to-head trial of intravenous racemic ketamine versus conventional augmentative treatments for treatment-resistant unipolar depression is needed.

Augmentation strategies for treatment resistant major depression: A systematic review and network meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

To compare the efficacy and discontinuation of augmentation agents in adult patients with treatment-resistant depression (TRD). We conducted a systematic review and network meta-analyses (NMA) to combine direct and indirect comparisons of augmentation agents.

METHODS

We included randomized controlled trials comparing one active drug with another or with placebo following a treatment course up to 24 weeks. Nineteen agents were included: stimulants, atypical antipsychotics, thyroid hormones, antidepressants, and mood stabilizers. Data for response/remission and all-cause discontinuation rates were analyzed. We estimated effect-size by relative risk using pairwise and NMA with random-effects model.

RESULTS

A total of 65 studies (N = 12,415) with 19 augmentation agents were included in the NMA. Our findings from the NMA for response rates, compared to placebo, were significant for: liothyronine, nortriptyline, aripiprazole, brexpiprazole, quetiapine, lithium, modafinil, olanzapine (fluoxetine), cariprazine, and lisdexamfetamine. For remission rates, compared to placebo, were significant for: thyroid hormone(T4), aripiprazole, brexpiprazole, risperidone, quetiapine, and olanzapine (fluoxetine). Compared to placebo, ziprasidone, mirtazapine, and cariprazine had statistically significant higher discontinuation rates. Overall, 24% studies were rated as having low risk of bias (RoB), 63% had moderate RoB and 13% had high RoB.

LIMITATIONS

Heterogeneity in TRD definitions, variable trial duration and methodological clinical design of older studies and small number of trials per comparisons.

CONCLUSIONS

This NMA suggests a superiority of the regulatory approved adjunctive atypical antipsychotics, thyroid hormones, dopamine compounds (modafinil and lisdexamfetamine) and lithium. Acceptability was lower with ziprasidone, mirtazapine, and cariprazine. Further research and head-to-head studies should be considered to strengthen the best available options for TRD.

Augmentative Pharmacological Strategies in Treatment-Resistant Major Depression: A Comprehensive Review

Treatment resistant depression (TRD) is associated with poor outcomes, but a consensus is lacking in the literature regarding which compound represents the best pharmacological augmentation strategy to antidepressants (AD). In the present review, we identify the available literature regarding the pharmacological augmentation to AD in TRD. Research in the main psychiatric databases was performed (PubMed, ISI Web of Knowledge, PsychInfo). Only original articles in English with the main topic being pharmacological augmentation in TRD and presenting a precise definition of TRD were included. Aripiprazole and lithium were the most investigated molecules, and aripiprazole presented the strongest evidence of efficacy. Moreover, olanzapine, quetiapine, cariprazine, risperidone, and ziprasidone showed positive results but to a lesser extent. Brexpiprazole and intranasal esketamine need further study in real-world practice. Intravenous ketamine presented an evincible AD effect in the short-term. The efficacy of adjunctive ADs, antiepileptic drugs, psychostimulants, pramipexole, ropinirole, acetyl-salicylic acid, metyrapone, reserpine, testosterone, T3/T4, naltrexone, SAMe, and zinc cannot be precisely estimated in light of the limited available data. Studies on lamotrigine and pindolol reported negative results. According to our results, aripiprazole and lithium may be considered by clinicians as potential effective augmentative strategies in TRD, although the data regarding lithium are somewhat controversial. Reliable conclusions about the other molecules cannot be drawn. Further controlled comparative studies, standardized in terms of design, doses, and duration of the augmentative treatments, are needed to formulate definitive conclusions.

Role of central serotonin and noradrenaline interactions in the antidepressants' action: Electrophysiological and neurochemical evidence

The development of antidepressant drugs, in the last 6 decades, has been associated with theories based on a deficiency of serotonin (5-HT) and/or noradrenaline (NA) systems. Although the pathophysiology of major depression (MD) is not fully understood, numerous investigations have suggested that treatments with various classes of antidepressant drugs may lead to an enhanced 5-HT and/or adapted NA neurotransmissions. In this review, particular morpho-physiological aspects of these systems are first considered. Second, principal features of central 5-HT/NA interactions are examined. In this regard, the effects of the acute and sustained antidepressant administrations on these systems are discussed. Finally, future directions including novel therapeutic strategies are proposed.

Pharmacological Treatments for Patients with Treatment-Resistant Depression

Over a third of patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) do not have an adequate response to first-line antidepressant treatments, i.e., they have treatment-resistant depression (TRD). These patients tend to have a more severe course of illness and are at an increased risk of suicide. Next step treatment options for patients with TRD, include switching to a different antidepressant, combining more than one antidepressant, or augmenting an antidepressant with another (non-antidepressant) medication. It is unclear which of these treatment approaches should be applied to a given patient, and in what order. Due to this ambiguity, comparing antidepressants and augmentation agents on the basis of their efficacy, tolerability, and speed of symptom relief would be beneficial for clinicians. To accomplish this, a systematic search was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. Only randomized controlled trials were included in this qualitative synthesis, resulting in 66 articles. This review identified several effective pharmaco-therapeutic strategies that are currently available for patients with TRD. Ketamine and esketamine appear to be effective for the treatment of TRD. Augmentation with certain second generation antipsychotics, such as quetiapine or aripiprazole is likewise effective, and may be preferred over switching to antidepressant monotherapy. While the combination of olanzapine and fluoxetine was one of the first pharmacotherapy approved for TRD, and its use may be limited by metabolic side-effects. Other effective strategies include augmentation with lithium, liothyronine (T3), lamotrigine, or combination of antidepressants including bupropion, tricyclics, or mirtazapine. There is insufficient research to demonstrate the efficacy of ziprasidone or levothyroxine (T4). A shared decision-making approach is recommended to guide treatment selection to address each patient’s individual needs.

Pharmacological Augmentation in Unipolar Depression: A Guide to the Guidelines

BACKGROUND

Pharmacological augmentation is a recommended strategy for patients with treatment-resistant depression. A range of guidelines provide advice on treatment selection, prescription, monitoring and discontinuation, but variation in the content and quality of guidelines may limit the provision of objective, evidence-based care. This is of importance given the side effect burden and poorer long-term outcomes associated with polypharmacy and treatment-resistant depression. This review provides a definitive overview of pharmacological augmentation recommendations by assessing the quality of guidelines for depression and comparing the recommendations made.

METHODS

A systematic literature search identified current treatment guidelines for depression published in English. Guidelines were quality assessed using the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation II tool. Data relating to the prescription of pharmacological augmenters were extracted from those developed with sufficient rigor, and the included recommendations compared.

RESULTS

Total of 1696 records were identified, 19 guidelines were assessed for quality, and 10 were included. Guidelines differed in their quality, the stage at which augmentation was recommended, the agents included, and the evidence base cited. Lithium and atypical antipsychotics were recommended by all 10, though the specific advice was not consistent. Of the 15 augmenters identified, no others were universally recommended.

CONCLUSIONS

This review provides a comprehensive overview of current pharmacological augmentation recommendations for major depression and will support clinicians in selecting appropriate treatment guidance. Although some variation can be accounted for by date of guideline publication, and limited evidence from clinical trials, there is a clear need for greater consistency across guidelines to ensure patients receive consistent evidence-based care.

The impact of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors on the thyroid function among patients with major depressive disorder: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI) have been claimed to negatively affect the thyroid function, albeit the evidence is controversial. We searched for studies that measured parameters of thyroid function (TSH, T4, Free T4, or T3) before and after a course of SSRI treatment in euthyroid patients with major depressive disorder. Electronic searches were conducted on MEDLINE, Embase and Web of Science databases from inception through April 4th, 2018. We performed random-effects meta-analyses to estimate the effect of SSRIs on each hormone. A total 1791 records were identified in the electronic search, and 14 observational clinical studies were included in the analyses. All studies had at least moderate risk of bias and were considered of low quality. A course of SSRI treatment was associated with a decrease in T4 of -6.58 nmol/L (95% Confidence Interval [CI], -12.17 to -.99, p = .005, I²=97%; Cohen's d = .50), a decrease in Free T4 of -.91 pmol/L (95% CI, -1.65 to -.16, p = .017, I²=96%; Cohen's d = .66), and a decrease in T3 of -.10 nmol/L (95% CI, -.18 to -.03, p = .007, I²=96%; Cohen's d = .45), and no effect on TSH (0.06 microIU/L, 95% CI, -.05 to .17, p = .285, I²=98%; Cohen's d = .17). We did not detect publication bias in any of the four meta-analyses. We conclude that there is preliminary evidence that SSRIs slightly decrease thyroid function, but quality of evidence is low. Clinical magnitude of such effect is yet unclear.

Thyroid hormone treatment in the management of treatment-resistant unipolar depression: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Treatment with thyroid hormones is occasionally used in the management of treatment-resistant depression. However, the evidence supporting this treatment is not fully established. The aim of this study was to systematically review the literature on the effect of adjunctive thyroid hormone in the management of treatment-resistant unipolar depression and to provide a pooled estimate of its efficacy.

METHODS

The study is registered with PROSPERO (reg. no. CRD42018108088) and followed the PRISMA guidelines. Searches were carried out on June 24, 2019, in PubMed, EMBASE, and PsycINFO. Each record was screened independently by at least two reviewers. In instances of discrepancies, consensus was reached upon discussion. Pooled efficacy estimates were calculated based on response rates (decrease of ≥50% on the primary outcome measure) using random effect statistics.

RESULTS

The search yielded 1355 records. Based on the screening of these records, we identified 10 studies that met the inclusion criteria (total number of patients = 663). The comparison of response to thyroid hormones vs. placebo resulted in an odds ratio of 1.56 (95% CI: 0.50-4.84). Similarly, the comparison of response to thyroid hormones vs. lithium resulted in an odds ratio of 1.91 (95% CI: 0.85-4.26). Thus, adjunctive therapy with thyroid hormones was not superior to placebo or lithium in the management of treatment-resistant unipolar depression.

CONCLUSION

According to this review and meta-analysis, there is not sufficient evidence to support the use of adjunctive thyroid hormones for treatment-resistant unipolar depression.

Effect of lithium on suicide and mortality in mood disorders: A systematic review

OBJECTIVE

To assess if lithium treatment in patients with mood disorders, for instance depression, bipolar disorders, and schizoaffective disorders, has an effect on total mortality and suicide.

DESIGN

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE

Total mortality. Secondary outcome was suicide.

DATA SOURCES

PubMed and ClinicalTrials.gov. Eligible trials were randomized double-blind trials comparing lithium with placebo in patients with mood disorders who were not already on lithium before randomization in order to avoid withdrawal effects in the placebo group.

DATA EXTRACTION AND ANALYSIS

Two researchers extracted data independently. Data were analysed with Review Manager 5.3 (Peto odds ratio).

RESULTS

We found 45 eligible studies. Only four studies reported any suicides or other deaths in the lithium or placebo group. There was a significant reduction in total mortality (two versus nine), odds ratio 0.28 (95% confidence interval 0.08 to 0.93). There was no statistically significant reduction in suicides, (none versus three), odds ratio 0.13 (0.01 to 1.27).

CONCLUSION

According to our study, lithium reduces total mortality in mood disorders but not suicide. Because of small numbers and unreliable data, the findings should be interpreted with caution.

Pharmacological interventions for treatment-resistant depression in adults

BACKGROUND

Although antidepressants are often a first-line treatment for adults with moderate to severe depression, many people do not respond adequately to medication, and are said to have treatment-resistant depression (TRD). Little evidence exists to inform the most appropriate 'next step' treatment for these people.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effectiveness of standard pharmacological treatments for adults with TRD.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Common Mental Disorders Controlled Trials Register (CCMDCTR) (March 2016), CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO and Web of Science (31 December 2018), the World Health Organization trials portal and ClinicalTrials.gov for unpublished and ongoing studies, and screened bibliographies of included studies and relevant systematic reviews without date or language restrictions.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) with participants aged 18 to 74 years with unipolar depression (based on criteria from DSM-IV-TR or earlier versions, International Classification of Diseases (ICD)-10, Feighner criteria or Research Diagnostic Criteria) who had not responded to a minimum of four weeks of antidepressant treatment at a recommended dose. Interventions were: (1) increasing the dose of antidepressant monotherapy; (2) switching to a different antidepressant monotherapy; (3) augmenting treatment with another antidepressant; (4) augmenting treatment with a non-antidepressant. All were compared with continuing antidepressant monotherapy. We excluded studies of non-standard pharmacological treatments (e.g. sex hormones, vitamins, herbal medicines and food supplements).

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two reviewers used standard Cochrane methods to extract data, assess risk of bias, and resolve disagreements. We analysed continuous outcomes with mean difference (MD) or standardised mean difference (SMD) and 95% confidence interval (CI). For dichotomous outcomes, we calculated a relative risk (RR) and 95% CI. Where sufficient data existed, we conducted meta-analyses using random-effects models.

MAIN RESULTS

We included 10 RCTs (2731 participants). Nine were conducted in outpatient settings and one in both in- and outpatients. Mean age of participants ranged from 42 - 50.2 years, and most were female. One study investigated switching to, or augmenting current antidepressant treatment with, another antidepressant (mianserin). Another augmented current antidepressant treatment with the antidepressant mirtazapine. Eight studies augmented current antidepressant treatment with a non-antidepressant (either an anxiolytic (buspirone) or an antipsychotic (cariprazine; olanzapine; quetiapine (3 studies); or ziprasidone (2 studies)). We judged most studies to be at a low or unclear risk of bias. Only one of the included studies was not industry-sponsored. There was no evidence of a difference in depression severity when current treatment was switched to mianserin (MD on Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HAM-D) = -1.8, 95% CI -5.22 to 1.62, low-quality evidence)) compared with continuing on antidepressant monotherapy. Nor was there evidence of a difference in numbers dropping out of treatment (RR 2.08, 95% CI 0.94 to 4.59, low-quality evidence; dropouts 38% in the mianserin switch group; 18% in the control). Augmenting current antidepressant treatment with mianserin was associated with an improvement in depression symptoms severity scores from baseline (MD on HAM-D -4.8, 95% CI -8.18 to -1.42; moderate-quality evidence). There was no evidence of a difference in numbers dropping out (RR 1.02, 95% CI 0.38 to 2.72; low-quality evidence; 19% dropouts in the mianserin-augmented group; 38% in the control). When current antidepressant treatment was augmented with mirtazapine, there was little difference in depressive symptoms (MD on Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-II) -1.7, 95% CI -4.03 to 0.63; high-quality evidence) and no evidence of a difference in dropout numbers (RR 0.50, 95% CI 0.15 to 1.62; dropouts 2% in mirtazapine-augmented group; 3% in the control). Augmentation with buspirone provided no evidence of a benefit in terms of a reduction in depressive symptoms (MD on Montgomery and Asberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) -0.30, 95% CI -9.48 to 8.88; low-quality evidence) or numbers of drop-outs (RR 0.60, 95% CI 0.23 to 1.53; low-quality evidence; dropouts 11% in buspirone-augmented group; 19% in the control). Severity of depressive symptoms reduced when current treatment was augmented with cariprazine (MD on MADRS -1.50, 95% CI -2.74 to -0.25; high-quality evidence), olanzapine (MD on HAM-D -7.9, 95% CI -16.76 to 0.96; low-quality evidence; MD on MADRS -12.4, 95% CI -22.44 to -2.36; low-quality evidence), quetiapine (SMD -0.32, 95% CI -0.46 to -0.18; I2 = 6%, high-quality evidence), or ziprasidone (MD on HAM-D -2.73, 95% CI -4.53 to -0.93; I2 = 0, moderate-quality evidence) compared with continuing on antidepressant monotherapy. However, a greater number of participants dropped out when antidepressant monotherapy was augmented with an antipsychotic (cariprazine RR 1.68, 95% CI 1.16 to 2.41; quetiapine RR 1.57, 95% CI: 1.14 to 2.17; ziprasidone RR 1.60, 95% CI 1.01 to 2.55) compared with antidepressant monotherapy, although estimates for olanzapine augmentation were imprecise (RR 0.33, 95% CI 0.04 to 2.69). Dropout rates ranged from 10% to 39% in the groups augmented with an antipsychotic, and from 12% to 23% in the comparison groups. The most common reasons for dropping out were side effects or adverse events. We also summarised data about response and remission rates (based on changes in depressive symptoms) for included studies, along with data on social adjustment and social functioning, quality of life, economic outcomes and adverse events.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

A small body of evidence shows that augmenting current antidepressant therapy with mianserin or with an antipsychotic (cariprazine, olanzapine, quetiapine or ziprasidone) improves depressive symptoms over the short-term (8 to 12 weeks). However, this evidence is mostly of low or moderate quality due to imprecision of the estimates of effects. Improvements with antipsychotics need to be balanced against the increased likelihood of dropping out of treatment or experiencing an adverse event. Augmentation of current antidepressant therapy with a second antidepressant, mirtazapine, does not produce a clinically important benefit in reduction of depressive symptoms (high-quality evidence). The evidence regarding the effects of augmenting current antidepressant therapy with buspirone or switching current antidepressant treatment to mianserin is currently insufficient. Further trials are needed to increase the certainty of these findings and to examine long-term effects of treatment, as well as the effectiveness of other pharmacological treatment strategies.

Lithium treatment for unipolar major depressive disorder: Systematic review

BACKGROUND

The potential value of lithium treatment in particular aspects of unipolar major depressive disorder remains uncertain.

METHODS

With reports of controlled trials identified by systematic searching of Medline, Cochrane Library, and PsycINFO literature databases, we summarized responses with lithium and controls followed by selective random-effects meta-analyses.

RESULTS

We identified 36 reports with 39 randomized controlled trials: six for monotherapy and 12 for adding lithium to antidepressants for acute major depression, and 21 for long-term treatment. Data for monotherapy of acute depression were few and inconclusive. As an adjunct to antidepressants, lithium was much more effective than placebo ( p<0.0001). For long-term maintenance treatment, lithium was more effective than placebo in monotherapy ( p=0.011) and to supplement antidepressants ( p=0.038), and indistinguishable from antidepressant monotherapy.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings indicate efficacy of lithium as a treatment for some aspects of major depressive disorder, especially as an add-on to antidepressants and for long-term prophylaxis. It remains uncertain whether some benefits of lithium treatment occur with many major depressive disorder patients, or if efficacy is particular to a subgroup with bipolar disorder-like characteristics or mixed-features.

Pharmacological management of treatment-resistant depression

The management of patients with depression who have failed to respond to antidepressant medication is a common problem in general and old age psychiatry. It has been estimated that about 20–30% of patients with major depression fail to respond to treatment with a single antidepressant drug given in adequate dosage for an appropriate period of time. At the current time there are many possible ways to pursue pharmacological treatment, but few controlled trials to help us choose between the various options. In addition there are few clinical predictors to help match patients to an appropriate treatment.

New drugs, old problems: Revisiting… Pharmacological management of treatment-resistant depression

Effective pharmacological management of depression resistant to antidepressant medication is best carried out in the context of a supportive and collaborative relationship, following a mutually agreed care plan. Simpler pharmacological approaches such as switching antidepressant classes are tried first, then augmentation is used if needed. New classes of antidepressants have made antidepressant combination a popular augmentation strategy, but lithium addition has most supporting evidence. The use of atypical antipsychotics as augmenting agents is increasing. For patients unresponsive to these strategies, monoamine oxidase inhibitors and electroconvulsive therapy remain important. Large randomised pragmatic trials are needed to help clinicians and patients make better treatment choices.

Treatment and Prevention of Depression

Depression is one of the most common and debilitating psychiatric disorders and is a leading cause of suicide. Most people who become depressed will have multiple episodes, and some depressions are chronic. Persons with bipolar disorder will also have manic or hypomanic episodes. Given the recurrent nature of the disorder, it is important not just to treat the acute episode, but also to protect against its return and the onset of subsequent episodes.

Several types of interventions have been shown to be efficacious in treating depression. The antidepressant medications are relatively safe and work for many patients, but there is no evidence that they reduce risk of recurrence once their use is terminated. The different medication classes are roughly comparable in efficacy, although some are easier to tolerate than are others. About half of all patients will respond to a given medication, and many of those who do not will respond to some other agent or to a combination of medications. Electro-convulsive therapy is particularly effective for the most severe and resistant depressions, but raises concerns about possible deleterious effects on memory and cognition. It is rarely used until a number of different medications have been tried.

Although it is still unclear whether traditional psychodynamic approaches are effective in treating depression, interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT) has fared well in controlled comparisons with medications and other types of psychotherapies. It also appears to have a delayed effect that improves the quality of social relationships and interpersonal skills. It has been shown to reduce acute distress and to prevent relapse and recurrence so long as it is continued or maintained. Treatment combining IPT with medication retains the quick results of pharmacotherapy and the greater interpersonal breadth of IPT, as well as boosting response in patients who are otherwise more difficult to treat. The main problem is that IPT has only recently entered clinical practice and is not widely available to those in need.

Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) also appears to be efficacious in treating depression, and recent studies suggest that it can work for even severe depressions in the hands of experienced therapists. Not only can CBT relieve acute distress, but it also appears to reduce risk for the return of symptoms as long as it is continued or maintained. Moreover, it appears to have an enduring effect that reduces risk for relapse or recurrence long after treatment is over. Combined treatment with medication and CBT appears to be as efficacious as treatment with medication alone and to retain the enduring effects of CBT. There also are indications that the same strategies used to reduce risk in psychiatric patients following successful treatment can be used to prevent the initial onset of depression in persons at risk. More purely behavioral interventions have been studied less than the cognitive therapies, but have performed well in recent trials and exhibit many of the benefits of cognitive therapy.

Mood stabilizers like lithium or the anticonvulsants form the core treatment for bipolar disorder, but there is a growing recognition that the outcomes produced by modern pharmacology are not sufficient. Both IPT and CBT show promise as adjuncts to medication with such patients. The same is true for family-focused therapy, which is designed to reduce interpersonal conflict in the family. Clearly, more needs to be done with respect to treatment of the bipolar disorders.

Good medical management of depression can be hard to find, and the empirically supported psychotherapies are still not widely practiced. As a consequence, many patients do not have access to adequate treatment. Moreover, not everyone responds to the existing interventions, and not enough is known about what to do for people who are not helped by treatment. Although great strides have been made over the past few decades, much remains to be done with respect to the treatment of depression and the bipolar disorders.

Depression Screening, Diagnosis, and Treatment Across the Lifespan

This article focuses on six basic components of more effective depression care, emphasizing systems of team-based and collaborative care for diagnosis, monitoring, and follow-up. It also emphasizes the principles of stepped care and proactive and timely intensification of treatment, and discusses various augmentation strategies that all primary care providers could more readily employ.

Systematic Review of Clinical Practice Guidelines for Failed Antidepressant Treatment Response in Major Depressive Disorder, Dysthymia, and Subthreshold Depression in Adults

OBJECTIVE

This systematic review critically evaluated clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) for treating adults with major depressive disorder, dysthymia, or subthreshold or minor depression for recommendations following inadequate response to first-line treatment with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).

METHOD

Searches for CPGs (January 2004 to November 2014) in English included 7 bibliographic databases and grey literature sources using CPG and depression as the keywords. Two raters selected CPGs on depression with a national scope. Data extraction included definitions of adequate response and recommended treatment options. Two raters assessed quality using the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation II (AGREE II) instrument.

RESULTS

From 46,908 citations, 3167 were screened at full text. From these 21 CPG were applicable to adults in primary care and outpatient settings. Five CPGs consider patients with dysthymia or subthreshold or minor depression. None provides recommendations for those who do not respond to first-line SSRI treatment. For adults with MDD, most CPGs do not define an "inadequate response" or provide specific suggestions regarding how to choose alternative medications when switching to an alternative antidepressant. There is variability between CPGs in recommending combination strategies. AGREE II ratings for stakeholder involvement in CPG development, editorial independence, and rigor of development are domains in which depression guidelines are often less robust.

CONCLUSIONS

About half of patients with depression require second-line treatment to achieve remission. Consistency and clarity in guidelines for second-line treatment of depression are therefore important for clinicians but lacking in most current guidelines. This may reflect a paucity of primary studies upon which to base conclusions.

Major Depressive Disorder: Understanding the Significance of Residual Symptoms and Balancing Efficacy with Tolerability

INTRODUCTION

Major depressive disorder is a complex and frequent psychiatric condition that poses significant challenges to both the patients who experience it and the physicians who treat them. The goal of therapy is for patients to achieve remission, which requires identifying and measuring symptoms at the outset and throughout treatment to document both response and resistance to treatment. A number of validated instruments are available both for diagnosis of and response to treatment. Many factors affect a patient's ability to achieve remission, but although many patients do achieve remission, a significant number continue to have residual symptoms that cause functional impairment.

METHODS

Review of the literature for treatment of major depression, including mechanisms of action, individualized treatment optimization, residual symptom reduction, and minimization of side effects.

RESULTS

For sustained remission, all symptoms must be treated until they are undetectable. Patients who do not achieve remission after adequate treatment trials should be evaluated for adherence to treatment, as well as comorbid psychiatric and medical disorders. In these cases, consideration should be given to changing therapy by switching, combining, or augmenting initial therapy, as well as referring some patients to a psychiatrist for treatment with specialized modalities. Linking symptoms with malfunctioning brain circuits and neurotransmitters provides a targeted approach for achieving sustained remission. Neurobiology also provides a rational basis for combination therapy in patients with treatment-resistant depression, because it can aid selection of different drugs with different mechanisms of action or of multifunctional/multimodal antidepressant drugs that target more than 1 molecular mechanism.

DISCUSSION

Recent advances and better understanding of neurobiology provide a rational basis for individualizing treatment of patients with major depression.

How treatable is refractory depression?

INTRODUCTION

Patients who do not remit following one or more attempts at treatment present a clinical challenge, as well as prolonged suffering and disability. Discouragement is common, so knowledge of likelihood of eventual remission as well as which treatments might ultimately be effective would help patient and clinician alike.

METHOD

Thirty-one patients with major depression were recruited, 28 beginning study treatment. All had remained significantly depressed following adequate (4 weeks taking ≥ PDR maximum dose) trials on ≥ two antidepressants having different presumed mechanisms. Patients were begun on tranylcypromine to 60 mg/d, were then treated with up to 120 mg/d and then had dextroamphetamine added. Following two week wash-out, patients were then treated with nortriptyline+lithium, and then phenelzine was added. Each successive phase was entered only if remission had not been achieved, and phases could be skipped.

RESULTS

Eighteen of the 28 patients (65%) remitted in one of the five phases of the study, plus 5 additional patients with open post-study treatment (total remitting, 82%). By study phase, Eight of 27 (30%) patients remitted with initial dosing of tranylcypromine up to 60 mg/d, 6/18 (33%) remitted with above PDR dosing of tranylcypromine up to 120 mg/d, and 1/6 (17%) to adding dextroamphetamine. With nortriptyline, 1/10 (10%) remitted with nortriptyline+lithium, and 1/5 (20%) when phenelzine was added. Eighteen of the 28 patients (64%), or 78% of those who remitted, maintained their good benefit for at least six months.

DISCUSSION

The majority of depressed patients refractory to two or more adequately utilized differently acting antidepressant medications can still remit and about half may maintain remission for extended periods. "Refractory depression" appears to be a relative description for many unresponsive depressed patients.

California State Hospital Violence Assessment and Treatment (Cal-VAT) guidelines

Here we provide comprehensive guidelines for the assessment and treatment of violence and aggression of various etiologies, including psychotic aggression and impulsive aggression due to schizophrenia, mood disorders, ADHD, or trauma, and predatory aggression due to psychopathy and other personality disorders. These guidelines have been developed from a collection of prescribing recommendations, clinical trial results, and years of clinical experience in treating patients who are persistently violent or aggressive in the California Department of State Hospital System. Many of the recommendations provided in these guidelines employ off-label prescribing practices; thus, sound clinical judgment based on individual patient needs and according to institution formularies must be considered when applying these guidelines in clinical practice.

A systematic review and meta-analysis of lithium augmentation of tricyclic and second generation antidepressants in major depression

BACKGROUND

Lithium augmentation of antidepressants for treatment of unipolar major depression was one of the first adjunctive strategies based on a neuropharmacologic rationale. Randomized controlled trials supported its efficacy but most trials added lithium to tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs). Despite its efficacy, use of lithium augmentation remains infrequent. The current systematic review and meta-analysis examines the efficacy of lithium augmentation as an adjunct to second generation antidepressants as well as to TCAs and considers reasons for its infrequent use.

METHOD

A systematic search of Medline and the Cochrane Clinical Trials database was performed. Randomized, placebo-controlled trials of lithium augmentation were selected. A fixed-effects meta-analysis was performed. Odds ratios for response were calculated for each treatment-control contrast, for the trials grouped by type of initial antidepressant (TCA or second generation antidepressant), and as a meta-analytic summary for all treatments combined.

RESULTS

Nine trials that included 237 patients were selected. The odds ratio for response to lithium vs. placebo in all contrasts combined was 2.89 (95% CI 1.65, 5.05, z=3.72, p=0.0002). Heterogeneity was very low, I(2)=0%. Adjunctive lithium was effective with TCAs (7 contrasts) and with second generation agents (3 contrasts). Discontinuation due to adverse events was infrequent and did not differ between lithium and placebo.

LIMITATIONS

The meta-analysis is limited by the small size and number of trials and limited data for treatment resistant patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Adjunctive lithium appears to be as effective for second generation antidepressants as it was for the tricyclics.

Role of lithium augmentation in the management of major depressive disorder

The high rate of non-responders to initial treatment with antidepressants requires subsequent treatment strategies such as augmentation of antidepressants. Clinical guidelines recommend lithium augmentation as a first-line treatment strategy for non-responding depressed patients. The objectives of this review were to discuss the current place of lithium augmentation in the management of treatment-resistant depression and to review novel findings concerning lithium's mechanisms of action. We conducted a comprehensive and critical review of randomized, placebo-controlled trials, controlled and naturalistic comparator studies, and continuation-phase and discontinuation studies of lithium augmentation in major depression. The outcomes of interest were efficacy, factors allowing outcome prediction and results from preclinical studies investigating molecular mechanisms of lithium action. Substantial efficacy of lithium augmentation in the acute treatment of major depression has been demonstrated in more than 30 open-label studies and 10 placebo-controlled trials. In a meta-analysis addressing the efficacy of lithium in 10 randomized, controlled trials, it had a significant positive effect versus placebo, with an odds ratio of 3.11 corresponding to a number-needed-to-treat (NNT) of 5 and a mean response rate of 41.2% (versus 14.4% in the placebo group). The main limitations of these studies were the relatively small numbers of study participants and the fact that most studies included augmentation of tricyclic antidepressants, which are not in widespread use anymore. Evidence from continuation-phase studies is sparse but suggests that lithium augmentation should be maintained in the lithium-antidepressant combination for at least 1 year to prevent early relapses. Concerning outcome prediction, single studies have reported associations of better outcome rates with more severe depressive symptomatology, significant weight loss, psychomotor retardation, a history of more than three major depressive episodes and a family history of major depression. Additionally, one study suggested a predictive role of the -50T/C single nucleotide polymorphism of the glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta (GSK3B) gene in the probability of response to lithium augmentation. With regard to novel mechanisms of action, GABAergic, neurotrophic and genetic effects might explain the effects of lithium augmentation. In conclusion, augmentation of antidepressants with lithium remains a first-line, evidence-based management option for patients with major depression who have not responded adequately to antidepressants. While the mechanisms of action are currently widely studied, further clinical research on the role of lithium potentiation of the current generation of antidepressants is warranted to reinforce its role as a gold-standard treatment for patients who respond inadequately to antidepressants.

Extended-release quetiapine fumarate (quetiapine XR) monotherapy and quetiapine XR or lithium as add-on to antidepressants in patients with treatment-resistant major depressive disorder

BACKGROUND

Patients with treatment-resistant major depressive disorder (MDD) remain a common clinical challenge.

METHODS

This 6-week, randomised, open-label, rater-blinded trial evaluated once-daily extended-release quetiapine fumarate (quetiapine XR; 300 mg/day) as add-on to ongoing antidepressant and quetiapine XR monotherapy (300 mg/day) compared with add-on lithium (0.6-1.2 mmol/L) in patients with treatment-resistant MDD. Primary efficacy measure: change in Montgomery Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) total score from randomisation to week 6 with a pre-specified non-inferiority limit of 3 points on the MADRS.

RESULTS

At week 6, both add-on quetiapine XR (n=231) and quetiapine XR monotherapy (n=228) were non-inferior to add-on lithium (n=229); least squares means (LSM) differences (97.5% CI) in MADRS total score changes were -2.32 (-4.6, -0.05) and -0.97 (-3.24, 1.31), respectively. LSM MADRS total score change was numerically greater at day 4 for both quetiapine XR groups (add-on and monotherapy; p<0.01) compared with add-on lithium. At week 6, the differences between groups for the secondary endpoints of MADRS response (≥ 50% reduction in total score), MADRS remission (total score ≤ 10, add-on quetiapine XR only) and Clinical Global Impressions ('much'/'very much' improved) were numerically similar. Overall tolerability was consistent with the known profiles of both treatments.

LIMITATIONS

Limitations included the open-label study design (although MADRS and laboratory measurements were performed by treatment-blinded raters) and relatively short study duration with no assessments in the continuation phase.

CONCLUSIONS

Add-on quetiapine XR (300 mg/day) and quetiapine XR monotherapy (300 mg/day) are non-inferior to add-on lithium in the management of patients with treatment-resistant MDD.

Neuropsychiatric manifestations of thyroid disease

The interface between thyroid hormone action and neuropsychiatric function is intricate, and several mechanisms of thyroid hormone uptake into brain tissues, hormone activation, and influences on neurotransmitter generation have been identified. Symptoms of hypothyroidism are nonspecific, whereas those attributed to thyrotoxicosis may be more characteristic. Neuropsychiatric manifestations triggered by thyroid dysfunction likely respond well to reestablishment of the euthyroid state, although some patients have persistent complaints. The addition of LT3 to ongoing LT4 replacement has yet to be definitively shown to be advantageous. Treatment of euthyroid depression with LT3 in addition to antidepressant therapy lacks convincing evidence of superior outcomes.

World Federation of Societies of Biological Psychiatry (WFSBP) guidelines for biological treatment of unipolar depressive disorders, part 1: update 2013 on the acute and continuation treatment of unipolar depressive disorders

OBJECTIVES

This 2013 update of the practice guidelines for the biological treatment of unipolar depressive disorders was developed by an international Task Force of the World Federation of Societies of Biological Psychiatry (WFSBP). The goal has been to systematically review all available evidence pertaining to the treatment of unipolar depressive disorders, and to produce a series of practice recommendations that are clinically and scientifically meaningful based on the available evidence. The guidelines are intended for use by all physicians seeing and treating patients with these conditions.

METHODS

The 2013 update was conducted by a systematic update literature search and appraisal. All recommendations were approved by the Guidelines Task Force.

RESULTS

This first part of the guidelines (Part 1) covers disease definition, classification, epidemiology, and course of unipolar depressive disorders, as well as the management of the acute and continuation phase treatment. It is primarily concerned with the biological treatment (including antidepressants, other psychopharmacological medications, electroconvulsive therapy, light therapy, adjunctive and novel therapeutic strategies) of adults.

CONCLUSIONS

To date, there is a variety of evidence-based antidepressant treatment options available. Nevertheless there is still a substantial proportion of patients not achieving full remission. In addition, somatic and psychiatric comorbidities and other special circumstances need to be more thoroughly investigated. Therefore, further high-quality informative randomized controlled trials are urgently needed.

Evidence for the benefits of nonantipsychotic pharmacological augmentation in the treatment of depression

Failure to achieve an adequate response after initial antidepressant treatment in patients with depression is common and remains a clinical challenge. In recent years, some atypical antipsychotic agents have been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for use in an augmentation strategy for major depressive disorder, and other agents are already in common use in clinical practice. We conducted a search of MEDLINE for relevant studies of augmentation strategies using randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses, and we summarize and discuss the various agents other than atypical antipsychotics. Lithium and thyroid hormone augmentation may improve the response of tricyclic antidepressants but not that of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. The efficacy of augmentation with modafinil, buspirone, methylphenidate, folic acid, pindolol and lamotrigine is limited or equivocal. Most of the studies have not focused on treatment-resistant depression (TRD). More trials are needed to help develop evidence-based options for augmentation in TRD.

Cost-Effectiveness Analysis of Aripiprazole Augmentation Treatment of Patients with Major Depressive Disorder Compared to Olanzapine and Quetiapine Augmentation in Turkey: A Microsimulation Approach

OBJECTIVES

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a chronic illness associated with a major burden on quality of life (QOL) and health care resources. Aripiprazole augmentation to antidepressant treatment was recently approved for patients with MDD responding insufficiently to antidepressant treatment in Turkey. The objective was to estimate the cost-effectiveness of aripiprazole augmentation in this indication compared with olanzapine and quetiapine augmentation from a payer perspective.

METHODS

A lifetime economic model was built simulating transitions of patients with MDD between major depressive episodes (MDEs) and remission. During MDEs, patients were treated with adjunctive aripiprazole, quetiapine, or olanzapine. Patients who did not respond switched to subsequent treatment lines. Comparative effectiveness between adjunctive aripiprazole, quetiapine, and olanzapine was estimated by using an indirect comparison. Resource utilization and costs were obtained from Turkish studies.

RESULTS

Over a lifetime horizon, patients treated with aripiprazole spent less time in MDEs than did patients treated with quetiapine (-11 weeks) and olanzapine (-7 weeks). On average, patients treated with aripiprazole showed improvement in QOL compared with patients treated with quetiapine (+0.054 quality-adjusted life-years [QALYs]) and olanzapine (+0.039 QALYs) combined with cost saving of 593 Turkish lira (TL) versus quetiapine and 485 TL versus olanzapine. The probability that adjunctive aripiprazole would be cost-effective among the three strategies ranged between 74% and 75% for willingness-to-pay values between 0 TL and 100,000 TL per QALY gained.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first lifetime health-economic model in Turkey that takes patient heterogeneity into account when assessing QOL and costs of different adjunctive strategies in MDD. The results indicate that adjunctive treatment with aripiprazole provides health benefits at lower costs in patients with MDD when compared with quetiapine and olanzapine augmentation.

Hormones in the treatment of depression

Several treatment strategies have been proposed for the management of depression in women. The occurrence of depression among females is often associated with periods of intense hormonal fluctuations, as observed in cases of premenstrual dysphoria, perinatal depression and with the development of depressive symptoms during the perimenopause. Various hormones including estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone and thyroid hormones may exert modulatory effects on neurotransmitter pathways in the CNS. It has been postulated that abrupt changes in these hormones may negatively affect mood; conversely, hormonal interventions could potentially improve such symptoms. This article reviews the current literature on the impact of hormonal treatments for mood symptoms in women and preventative strategies for depression in women during the reproductive lifecycle.

Treatment-resistant depression: therapeutic trends, challenges, and future directions

BACKGROUND

Patients with major depression respond to antidepressant treatment, but 10%-30% of them do not improve or show a partial response coupled with functional impairment, poor quality of life, suicide ideation and attempts, self-injurious behavior, and a high relapse rate. The aim of this paper is to review the therapeutic options for treating resistant major depressive disorder, as well as evaluating further therapeutic options.

METHODS

In addition to Google Scholar and Quertle searches, a PubMed search using key words was conducted, and relevant articles published in English peer-reviewed journals (1990-2011) were retrieved. Only those papers that directly addressed treatment options for treatment-resistant depression were retained for extensive review.

RESULTS

Treatment-resistant depression, a complex clinical problem caused by multiple risk factors, is targeted by integrated therapeutic strategies, which include optimization of medications, a combination of antidepressants, switching of antidepressants, and augmentation with non-antidepressants, psychosocial and cultural therapies, and somatic therapies including electroconvulsive therapy, repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation, magnetic seizure therapy, deep brain stimulation, transcranial direct current stimulation, and vagus nerve stimulation. As a corollary, more than a third of patients with treatment-resistant depression tend to achieve remission and the rest continue to suffer from residual symptoms. The latter group of patients needs further study to identify the most effective therapeutic modalities. Newer biomarker-based antidepressants and other drugs, together with non-drug strategies, are on the horizon to address further the multiple complex issues of treatment-resistant depression.

CONCLUSION

Treatment-resistant depression continues to challenge mental health care providers, and further relevant research involving newer drugs is warranted to improve the quality of life of patients with the disorder.

General and comparative efficacy and effectiveness of antidepressants in the acute treatment of depressive disorders: a report by the WPA section of pharmacopsychiatry

Current gold standard approaches to the treatment of depression include pharmacotherapeutic and psychotherapeutic interventions with social support. Due to current controversies concerning the efficacy of antidepressants in randomized controlled trials, the generalizability of study findings to wider clinical practice and the increasing importance of socioeconomic considerations, it seems timely to address the uncertainty of concerned patients and relatives, and their treating psychiatrists and general practitioners. We therefore discuss both the efficacy and clinical effectiveness of antidepressants in the treatment of depressive disorders. We explain and clarify useful measures for assessing clinically meaningful antidepressant treatment effects and the types of studies that are useful for addressing uncertainties. This includes considerations of methodological issues in randomized controlled studies, meta-analyses, and effectiveness studies. Furthermore, we summarize the differential efficacy and effectiveness of antidepressants with distinct pharmacodynamic properties, and differences between studies using antidepressants and/or psychotherapy. We also address the differential effectiveness of antidepressant drugs with differing modes of action and in varying subtypes of depressive disorder. After highlighting the clinical usefulness of treatment algorithms and the divergent biological, psychological, and clinical efforts to predict the effectiveness of antidepressant treatments, we conclude that the spectrum of different antidepressant treatments has broadened over the last few decades. The efficacy and clinical effectiveness of antidepressants is statistically significant, clinically relevant, and proven repeatedly. Further optimization of treatment can be helped by clearly structured treatment algorithms and the implementation of psychotherapeutic interventions. Modern individualized antidepressant treatment is in most cases a well-tolerated and efficacious approach to minimize the negative impact of otherwise potentially devastating and life-threatening outcomes in depressive disorders.

Safety considerations in drug treatment of depression in HIV-positive patients: an updated review

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is one of the most prevalent illnesses associated with HIV infection, and negatively affects medication adherence, disease progression and mortality in HIV disease. Co-morbid treatment of major depression in HIV disease is the optimal therapeutic approach, but discriminating MDD from normal fluctuations in mood state, personality or physiology is difficult. Definitive diagnosis of MDD is critical for drug safety and for avoiding unnecessary exposure to psychotropic medications. HIV patients respond to antidepressant treatment like the general population, and medication adverse effects and patient adherence are the best predictors of treatment outcome. This review attempts to assist the medical provider with the diagnosis and treatment of MDD in HIV patients. We outline the initial steps in screening and psychiatric referral, the antidepressants that are particularly useful in HIV-infected patients, and the adverse effects and pharmacological strategies for overcoming potential barriers to medication adherence. Potential interactions between the various classes of antidepressants and HIV/antiretroviral therapy, as well as management of HIV medication-related psychiatric adverse effects, are also discussed.

Hormone treatment of depression

There is a well-established relationship between alterations of various hormonal systems and psychiatric disorders, both in endocrine and psychiatric patients. This has led to clinical and research studies examining the efficacy of the different hormones for treatment of depression. These data will be reviewed with particular regard to the thyroid, gonadal, pineal, and adrenal cortex hormones. The data generally provide limited, but varying evidence for the antidepressant efficacy of these hormones.

Use of Endocrine Hormones for Treating Depression

Disturbances in some endocrine hormones have been implicated in the pathophysiology of depression. Some of these hormones (and drugs that affect hormone function) have been used as therapeutic agents for the treatment of depression, especially adrenal, thyroid, and gonadal axis hormones. Open-label and controlled studies of various drugs that directly suppress or inhibit adrenal axis function have shown some benefit for the treatment of major depression, including treatment-resistant depression. Thyroid hormone augmentation is effective for nonresponders to antidepressant agents, although it has not been studied extensively. Estrogen may improve mild mood symptoms in perimenopausal women but may not be effective alone for major depression. Evidence of the antidepressant effects of testosterone in men is inconsistent, with mixed results from controlled studies. The adrenal steroid hormone dehydroepiandrosterone has an important role in mood regulation and may have significant antidepressant effects.

Therapeutic armamentarium for treating depression

Depressive disorders are highly prevalent and are a leading cause of disability, morbidity, and mortality worldwide; however, they often remain undertreated or untreated. This article provides a broad overview of the many strategies for treating depression. More than 24 antidepressant medications and depression-focused psychotherapies are available as first-choice options for treating depression. When patients have not had a satisfactory treatment response, the 2 main strategies are switching to an alternative antidepressant therapy or adding a second antidepressant therapy. A large number of medication combinations have been reported in the literature, and some have been shown to be effective in controlled studies. Nonstandard alternatives to conventional antidepressant treatments include exercise, light therapy, sleep deprivation, and various complementary and alternative therapies. For more chronic and refractory forms of depression, various neuromodulation therapies are available or are being investigated. Because depressive disorders are common in primary care and other medical settings, medical practitioners should be aware of the therapeutic armamentarium available for treating depression.

Therapeutic options for treatment-resistant depression

Treatment-resistant depression (TRD) presents major challenges for both patients and clinicians. There is no universally accepted definition of TRD, but results from the US National Institute of Mental Health's (NIMH) STAR*D (Sequenced Treatment Alternatives to Relieve Depression) programme indicate that after the failure of two treatment trials, the chances of remission decrease significantly. Several pharmacological and nonpharmacological treatments for TRD may be considered when optimized (adequate dose and duration) therapy has not produced a successful outcome and a patient is classified as resistant to treatment. Nonpharmacological strategies include psychotherapy (often in conjunction with pharmacotherapy), electroconvulsive therapy and vagus nerve stimulation. The US FDA recently approved vagus nerve stimulation as adjunctive therapy (after four prior treatment failures); however, its benefits are seen only after prolonged (up to 1 year) use. Other nonpharmacological options, such as repetitive transcranial stimulation, deep brain stimulation or psychosurgery, remain experimental and are not widely available. Pharmacological treatments of TRD can be grouped in two main categories: 'switching' or 'combining'. In the first, treatment is switched within and between classes of compounds. The benefits of switching include avoidance of polypharmacy, a narrower range of treatment-emergent adverse events and lower costs. An inherent disadvantage of any switching strategy is that partial treatment responses resulting from the initial treatment might be lost by its discontinuation in favour of another medication trial. Monotherapy switches have also been shown to have limited effectiveness in achieving remission. The advantage of combination strategies is the potential to build upon achieved improvements; they are generally recommended if partial response was achieved with the current treatment trial. Various non-antidepressant augmenting agents, such as lithium and thyroid hormones, are well studied, although not commonly used. There is also evidence of efficacy and increasing use of atypical antipsychotics in combination with antidepressants, for example, olanzapine in combination with fluoxetine (OFC) or augmentation with aripiprazole. The disadvantages of a combination strategy include multiple medications, a broader range of treatment-emergent adverse events and higher costs. Several experimental pharmaceutical treatment alternatives for TRD are also being explored in combination with antidepressants or as monotherapy. These less studied alternative compounds include pindolol, inositol, CNS stimulants, hormones, herbal supplements, omega-3 fatty acids, S-adenosyl-L-methionine, folic acid, lamotrigine, modafinil, riluzole and topiramate. In summary, despite an increasing variety of choices for the treatment of TRD, this condition remains universally undefined and represents an area of unmet medical need. There are few known approved pharmacological agents for TRD (aripiprazole and OFC) and overall outcomes remain poor. This might be an indication that depression itself is a heterogeneous condition with a great diversity of pathologies, highlighting the need for careful evaluation of individuals with depressive symptoms who are unresponsive to treatment. Clearly, more research is needed to provide clinicians with better guidance in making those treatment decisions--especially in light of accumulating evidence that the longer patients are unsuccessfully treated, the worse their long-term prognosis tends to be.

Treatment options for the patient who does not respond well to initial antidepressant therapy

This column is the third in a series that began in January, 2009 on the improved understanding of and ability to treat patients with major depression. This column focuses on options for the patient who has not benefitted from one or more adequate trials of currently available antidepressants. It begins with a summary of the results of the switching and augmentation strategies studied in the landmark Sequenced Treatment Alternatives to Relieve Depression (STAR*D) study, funded by the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). The column then discusses options not included in the STAR*D study, including aripiprazole, which is now the first medication approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as adjunctive therapy for the treatment of patients with clinical depression, and vagus nerve stimulation, delivered by the first implantable device approved by the FDA for the treatment of patients with treatment-resistant depression (TRD). The goal of this column to summarize the data supporting various options for the busy clinician who treats such patients.

Clinical practice recommendations for depression

OBJECTIVE

To provide clinically relevant evidence-based recommendations for the management of depression in adults that are informative, easy to assimilate and facilitate clinical decision making.

METHOD

A comprehensive literature review of over 500 articles was undertaken using electronic database search engines (e.g. MEDLINE, PsychINFO and Cochrane reviews). In addition articles, book chapters and other literature known to the authors were reviewed. The findings were then formulated into a set of recommendations that were developed by a multidisciplinary team of clinicians who routinely deal with mood disorders. The recommendations then underwent consultative review by a broader advisory panel that included experts in the field, clinical staff and patient representatives.

RESULTS

The clinical practice recommendations for depression (Depression CPR) summarize evidence-based treatments and provide a synopsis of recommendations relating to each phase of the illness. They are designed for clinical use and have therefore been presented succinctly in an innovative and engaging manner that is clear and informative.

CONCLUSION

These up-to-date recommendations provide an evidence-based framework that incorporates clinical wisdom and consideration of individual factors in the management of depression. Further, the novel style and practical approach should promote uptake and implementation.

Brain bioenergetics and response to triiodothyronine augmentation in major depressive disorder

BACKGROUND

Low cerebral bioenergetic metabolism has been reported in subjects with major depressive disorder (MDD). Thyroid hormones have been shown to increase brain bioenergetic metabolism. We assessed whether changes in brain bioenergetics measured with phosphorus magnetic resonance spectroscopy ((31)P MRS) correlate with treatment outcome during augmentation treatment with triiodothyronine (T3) in MDD.

METHODS

Nineteen subjects meeting DSM-IV criteria for MDD who had previously failed to respond to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressant drugs received open label and prospective augmentation treatment with T3 for 4 weeks. We obtained (31)P MRS spectra before and after treatment from all MDD subjects and baseline (31)P MRS from nine normal control subjects matched for age and gender.

RESULTS

At baseline, depressed subjects had lower intracellular Mg(2+) compared with control subjects. Seven MDD subjects (38.9%) were treatment responders (>or= 50% improvement). Total nucleoside triphosphate (NTP), which primarily represents adenosine triphosphate (ATP), increased significantly in MDD subjects responding to T3 augmentation compared with treatment nonresponders. Phosphocreatine, which has a buffer role for ATP, decreased in treatment responders compared with nonresponders.

CONCLUSIONS

The antidepressant effect of thyroid hormone (T3) augmentation of SSRIs is correlated with significant changes in the brain bioenergetic metabolism. This seems to be a re-normalization of brain bioenergetics in treatment responders. Further studies will determine whether these findings can be generalized to other antidepressant treatments.

Augmentation with olanzapine in TCA-refractory depression with melancholic features: a consecutive case series

Using an 8-week, open label study design, we report the effect of augmentation strategy with olanzapine in hospitalized depressive patients with melancholic features who had insufficient response to a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA), amitriptyline. Subjects were hospitalized patients meeting the criteria of DSM-IV major depressive disorder with melancholic features who had been suffering from residual symptoms after treatment of amitriptyline. After study entry, olanzapine was added to amitriptyline and the dose was adjusted according to patients' clinical condition. Data were analyzed using an intent-to-treat methodology, with last observation carried forward. Paired t-test was adopted to assess the data from baseline to endpoint. Of 26 patients who enrolled in this study, 23 patients completed the trial and 3 patients dropped out. The mean dose of olanzapine was 6.5 (SD = 2.4) mg/day. The mean score of Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) was significantly decreased from 33.6 (SD = 3.5) to 20.8 (SD = 9.1) during this study (37.9% from baseline) (p < 0.001). Ten patients (38.5%) were considered as responders (50% or greater reduction in MADRS scores from baseline). These results suggest that augmentation with olanzapine in TCAs-resistant melancholia may be effective and well tolerated. We cannot draw any conclusion with certainty from the open-label, uncontrolled clinical trial. Double blind, controlled trial is needed to confirm this preliminary finding.

Augmentation strategies in the treatment of major depressive disorder. Recent findings and current status of augmentation strategies

Augmentation strategies have become popular in patients with a partial response or residual symptoms. In a survey conducted by the American Society of Consultant Pharmacists, 65% of 169 psychiatrists indicated that they would augment treatment as the next step in a partial responder in contrast to non-responders in whom they would switch to another drug (J.C. Nelson, unpublished data). This decision is based on common sense and practicality rather than empirical evidence. Many clinicians and patients think that if a patient achieves at least a partial response to a medication, it makes sense to continue that drug and add a second. To some extent, the patient preferences for treatment shown in the Systematic Treatment Alternatives to Relieve Depression (STAR*D) study reflect this approach. This discussion will update clinicians on the use of augmentation agents for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD).

Lithium augmentation has been used since it was first described by de Montigny and colleagues in 1981. This strategy is based on a rational neurochemical hypothesis that lithium has a synergistic effect when added to a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA). Lithium increases serotonin turnover and the TCA increases postsynaptic serotonin receptor sensitivity. Recent debates have focused on whether lithium is as effective combined with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) as it is combined with a TCA. The rapid effects sometimes observed with lithium augmentation of TCAs does not seem to occur with SSRIs, conceivably because SSRIs do not increase postsynaptic serotonin receptor sensitivity.

Augmentation strategies for treatment-resistant depression: a literature review

BACKGROUND

The large majority of depressed patients fail to remit on the first antidepressant prescribed. These patients with residual symptoms have higher relapse rates and poorer outcomes than those who remit. Treatment-resistant depression (TRD) is a therapeutic challenge for the clinician. Augmentation pharmacotherapy refers to the addition of drugs that are not standard antidepressants in order to enhance the effect of a classical antidepressant drug. The aim of this paper was to review the available evidence on the various augmenting agents that have been tested for efficacy in TRD.

METHODS

Electronic databases and relevant textbooks were searched and the information retrieved was integrated in this review.

RESULTS

Although augmentation strategies have been tested with various pharmacological agents, there are few controlled studies published. Lithium, triiodothyronine (T3), buspirone and pindolol have been most widely studied. Other agents include dopaminergic agents, atypical antipsychotics, psychostimulants, benzodiazepines/hypnotics, hormones and anticonvulsants.

CONCLUSION

The augmentation therapy with the best evidence was the lithium-antidepressant combination, especially in patients not responding to tricyclic agents. However, good results have also been reported with augmentation strategies involving T3 and buspirone.

Combined treatments for major depression

Major depression is a chronic disorder with a high morbidity and mortality. Approved treatment for major depression at present includes monotherapy with antidepressants of different pharmacologic classes. There is increasingly widespread use of two other options: augmentation, the addition to an antidepressant of a second compound that is not an antidepressant when used alone; and combination, which is the use of two antidepressants concurrently to enhance or accelerate response. This review focuses on the data available to support these various augmentation and combination treatments.

World Federation of Societies of Biological Psychiatry (WFSBP) Guidelines for Biological Treatment of Unipolar Depressive Disorders in Primary Care

These practical guidelines for the biological treatment of unipolar depressive disorders in primary care settings were developed by an international Task Force of the World Federation of Societies of Biological Psychiatry (WFSBP). They embody the results of a systematic review of all available clinical and scientific evidence pertaining to the treatment of unipolar depressive disorders and offer practical recommendations for general practitioners encountering patients with these conditions. The guidelines cover disease definition, classification, epidemiology and course of unipolar depressive disorders, and the principles of management in the acute, continuation and maintenance phase. They deal primarily with biological treatment (including antidepressants, other psychopharmacological and hormonal medications, electroconvulsive therapy, light therapy).

Fünfundzwanzig Jahre Lithiumaugmentation

Twenty-five years ago the research group of the Canadian psychiatrist de Montigny reported treating antidepressant-refractory depressive patients successfully by adding lithium to their antidepressant. The report, published in 1981 as an open-label uncontrolled observation of only eight patients, falls short of today's methodological standards, but the treatment method, subsequently known as lithium augmentation, nonetheless was to change profoundly the pharmacological strategies for depressive disorders. The story of its development is remarkable, starting with a strictly theoretical idea conceived by Montigny and his colleagues after animal experiments in the 1970s had revealed that pretreatment with an antidepressant over several weeks led to sensitization of central nervous serotonin receptors. The team postulated that the proserotonergic characteristics of lithium, which had been systematically used as a psychotropic drug since 1949, could thus be used specifically to stimulate these receptors. Lithium augmentation demonstrated its effectiveness in the 1980s and 1990s, first in open-label and later in randomized and placebo-controlled studies. In the late 1990s studies aimed at optimizing its clinical application indicated that lithium augmentation must be administered for at least 2 weeks, with lithium serum levels within the range established for prophylactic treatment and assuming patient response, and that the combination of lithium and antidepressant must be continued as a maintenance therapy for 6 to 12 months. Research has yet to clarify how lithium augmentation actually works. Current results show that in addition to the idea postulated by Montigny, lithium could also have an activating effect on the cortisol axis. Thanks to the sound body of evidence which has accrued in the meantime, lithium augmentation is recommended in most guidelines and treatment algorithms as a main strategy for patients who do not respond to antidepressant monotherapy.

Study of lithium ion exchange by two synthetic zeolites: Kinetics and equilibrium

We examined the exchange of univalent cations (Na+ and H+) retained on two commercially available synthetic zeolites with Li+ ions present in aqueous solutions in contact with the solids with a view to preparing effective controlled-release pharmaceutical forms. The studied zeolites were manufactured by Merck and featured channel diameters of 0.5 (Zeolite 5A, Ref. 1.05705.250, designated Z-05 in this work) and 1.0 nm (Zeolite 13X, Ref. 1.05703.250, designated Z-10 here). The XRD technique revealed that Z-05 possesses an LTA structure derived from that of sodalite and Z-10 a faujasite-type structure. Their exchange capacities were found to be 2.72 and 3.54 meq/g. The Z-Na + Li(+) / Z-Li + Na(+) and Z-H + Li(+) / Z-Li + H(+) ion-exchange processes were found to be reversible and their kinetic laws to obey the equation (-dC/dt) = k(a) x C(n) x (1-theta) - (k(d) x theta), with n = 1 for Z-10 and n = 2 for Z-05. Based on the equilibrium results, the overall processes involve one (with Z-05) or two single ion-exchange processes (with Z-10). In both cases, the equations that govern equilibrium are direct results of the kinetic laws. Thus, the first process-the one with only Z-05-involves the retention of Li+ cations at anionic sites on the outer surface of the solid and their access to the larger pores; the second process-which occurs with Z-10 only-involves the retention of lithium(I) cations within the zeolite channels. In both systems, the exchange with Li+ (from the aqueous solution) is easier than that with H+; this is consistent with our kinetic, equilibrium, and thermodynamic results.

Effects of risperidone augmentation in patients with treatment-resistant depression: Results of open-label treatment followed by double-blind continuation

Approximately one-third of persons with depression do not respond to antidepressant monotherapy. Studies suggest that atypical antipsychotic augmentation may benefit these patients. We investigated the longer-term efficacy of risperidone augmentation of serotonin-selective reuptake inhibitor treatment for resistant depression. In 57 in- and outpatient centers in three countries, we conducted a three-phase study with 4-6 weeks of open-label citalopram monotherapy, 4-6 weeks of open-label risperidone augmentation, and a 24-week double-blind, placebo-controlled discontinuation phase. A total of 489 patients with major depressive disorder and 1-3 documented treatment failures entered the citalopram monotherapy phase (20-60 mg/day). Patients with <50% reduction in HAM-D-17 scores entered the risperidone augmentation phase (0.25-2.0 mg/day). Patients with HAM-D-17< or =7 or CGI-S < or = 2 were randomized to risperidone or placebo augmentation. The primary outcome was time to relapse during the double-blind phase. During citalopram monotherapy, 434 patients had <50% HAM-D-17 reduction; 299 (68.9%) were fully nonresponsive (<25% reduction) and 135 were partially nonresponsive (25-49% reduction). Of the 386 nonresponders who entered the augmentation phase, 243 remitted and 241 entered the double-blind phase. Median time to relapse was 102 days with risperidone augmentation and 85 days with placebo (NS); relapse rates were 53.3 and 54.6%, respectively. In a post hoc analysis of patients fully nonresponsive to citalopram monotherapy, median time to relapse was 97 days with risperidone augmentation and 56 with placebo (p = 0.05); relapse rates were 56.1 and 64.1%, respectively (p < or = 0.05). Open-label risperidone augmentation substantially enhanced response in treatment-resistant patients, but the longer-term benefits of augmentation were not demonstrated in this study.