Strategic Use of New Generation Antidepressants for Depression: SUN(^_^)D Study Protocol
Author Information
Author(s): Toshiaki A. Furukawa, Tatsuo Akechi, Shinji Shimodera, Mitsuhiko Yamada, Kazuhira Miki, Norio Watanabe, Masatoshi Inagaki, Naohiro Yonemoto
Primary Institution: Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine
Hypothesis
What is the optimum first and second line antidepressant treatment strategy among adult patients with a non-psychotic unipolar major depressive episode?
Conclusion
The SUN(^_^)D trial aims to provide evidence for effective treatment strategies for major depression.
Supporting Evidence
- Major depression is the leading cause of disability worldwide.
- Only about 50% of patients respond to first-line antidepressant treatment.
- Current guidelines for antidepressant treatment are based on limited evidence.
Takeaway
This study is trying to find the best way to help people with depression by testing different medicines and dosages.
Methodology
This is an assessor-blinded, parallel-group, multi-centre randomized controlled trial comparing different treatment strategies for major depression.
Potential Biases
Potential biases may arise from the open-label nature of the trial and the reliance on self-reported measures.
Limitations
The study may not generalize to all populations as it focuses on specific treatment strategies in Japan.
Participant Demographics
Adults aged 25 to 75 with non-psychotic unipolar major depressive episode.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website