Determining Optimal Continuation Treatment Duration for Depressed Children and Adolescents

Depression is a serious medical illness that affects all ages and populations. However, it has only been within the last 10 years that sufficient attention has been devoted to researching treatments for depression in children and adolescents. Symptoms of depression in this age group vary, but some common signs include pretending to be sick, refusing to go to school, clinging to a parent, or worrying that a parent may die. Older children may sulk, get into trouble at school, act in a negative or grouchy way, or feel misunderstood. Recent studies on selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), one class of antidepressant medications, have shown that SSRIs are effective in reducing depression symptoms. The optimal duration of treatment, however, has yet to be established. This study will determine the optimal length of continuation treatment with fluoxetine for children and adolescents with major depressive disorder, as well as the factors that may contribute to positive response during acute and continuation treatment.

Participants in this study will first attend three study visits over a 2-week period to determine eligibility. All eligible individuals will be treated with fluoxetine for 12 weeks. Dosages will be determined by the study physician and will be based on clinical response to treatment. Study visits will occur weekly for the first 4 weeks and biweekly for the remaining 2 months. Depression symptoms, general changes, and adverse reactions will be assessed. Participants whose symptoms have improved will be eligible to enter the discontinuation phase of the study, which will entail random assignment to either fluoxetine or placebo for an additional 24 weeks. Study visits will occur biweekly for 3 months and monthly for the remaining 3 months. Depression symptoms and medication side effects will be assessed at these visits.

Inclusion criteria

• Currently being treated on an outpatient basis
• Currently attending school
• Diagnosis of non-psychotic major depressive disorder (MDD)
• Duration of illness is at least 4 weeks
• In good general medical health
• Normal intelligence

Exclusion criteria

• Lifetime history of any psychotic disorder, including psychotic depression
• Diagnosis of bipolar I or II disorder
• History of alcohol or substance abuse or dependence within 6 months of study entry
• Lifetime history of anorexia nervosa or bulimia
• Pregnant or breastfeeding
• Does not agree to use an effective form of contraception (i.e., IUD, birth control pills, or barrier devices)
• Any chronic medical illness requiring regular medication
• Currently taking medication with psychotropic effects (i.e., anticonvulsants, steroids, etc.), other than stable stimulant treatment
• A first degree relative has bipolar I disorder
• Previous adequate treatment with fluoxetine was ineffective (defined as at least 20 mg/day for 4 weeks)