Moclobemide in the treatment of major depressive disorder (DSM-3) following traumatic brain injury.
Major depression (MDD) following traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a common phenomenon. There are no adequate studies in the literature defining optimum treatments for this condition following TBI. The opportunity arose to analyse a group of patients who were included in a larger study of an antidepressant (moclobemide). As the treatment, but not the delivery, was known, this has the status of an open study. Twenty-six patients with major depression of late onset (mean 4.67 years post-TBI) were identified (18 male, 8 female), with a mean age at injury 28.49 years. The group was moderately depressed with Hamilton Depression score (HAM-D) of 23.385 and moderately anxious with Hamilton Anxiety score (HAM-A) of 21.231. Mean HAM-D reduction was 81% and HAM-A reduction 81%. Of the 26 subjects 23 were defined as responders. Onset of action was rapid, with 17 responding by day 3. Irritability scores showed a mean reduction of 57% and pain scores a reduction of 39%. It is concluded that moclobemide may be an effective treatment for MDD following TBI, but properly controlled studies must be carried out to confirm this.
Newburn
G
G
Rotorua Rehabilitation Clinic, New Zealand.
Edwards
R
R
Thomas
H
H
Collier
J
J
Fox
K
K
Collins
C
C
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D001930:Brain Injuries / Q000150:complications* / Q000523:psychology; D002648:Child; D003866:Depressive Disorder / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000209:etiology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D020912:Moclobemide / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D011569:Psychiatric Status Rating Scales
D020912:Moclobemide