Effectiveness of chromium in atypical depression: a placebo-controlled trial.
BACKGROUND
Chromium picolinate (CP) has been reported to benefit patients with symptoms of atypical depression.


METHODS
A placebo-controlled, double-blind, pilot study of CP was conducted in 15 patients with DSM-IV major depressive disorder, atypical type. Patients received 600 micro g of CP or matching placebo (PBO) for 8 weeks.


RESULTS
Seven (70%) CP and zero (0%) PBO patients met responder criteria (p =.02). Other outcomes were consistent with greater effect of CP. Three patients on CP failed to show any improvement. Chromium picolinate was well tolerated.


CONCLUSIONS
Chromium picolinate shows promising antidepressant effects in atypical depression. Its mechanism of action may relate to 5HT2A downregulation, increased insulin sensitivity, or to other effects.
Davidson
Jonathan R T
JR
Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina 27710, USA.
Abraham
Kurian
K
Connor
Kathryn M
KM
McLeod
Malcolm N
MN
D000328:Adult; D000928:Antidepressive Agents / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D003866:Depressive Disorder / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000523:psychology; D004311:Double-Blind Method; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010555:Personality Inventory; D010848:Picolinic Acids / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D010865:Pilot Projects; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D000928:Antidepressive Agents; D010848:Picolinic Acids; C030614:picolinic acid