Assessing major depressive disorder and an option for treatment
Jay D. Fawver, MD, Indiana University School of Medicine
Depression is multifactorial, including difficulty with cognition and focus because of dysregulation of multiple regions of the brain and neurotransmission symptoms, says Dr. Fawver in an industry-sponsored symposium. Vortioxetine (Brintellix) is an FDA-approved medication for depression that some describe as energizing or enhancing. The drug has a unique mechanism of action and is thought to be related to enhancement of serotonergic activity in the CNS through inhibition of reuptake of 5-HT. In double-blind, placebo-controlled trials, 5 to 20 mg/d of vortioxetine was superior to placebo in improving depressive symptoms as measured by mean change in MADRS or HAM-D24 total score. Among adverse effects, vomiting and nausea are common, but could be mitigated if it is taken with food. Vortioxetine is weight neutral.
