Open trial of fluoxetine in children and adolescents with dysthymic disorder or double depression

Abstract

Background: Chronic depressions commonly present in youth and cause significant morbidity. No treatment studies in this age group are currently available.

Methods: 19 pediatric subjects with dysthymic disorder or 'double depression' were recruited. After four weeks of psychosocial treatment, subjects failing to improve began open treatment with fluoxetine (20 mg) for eight weeks. Subjects were then reassessed for treatment response.

Results: Fifteen subjects entered the medication phase, and eleven (73%) no longer met criteria for dysthymic disorder or Major Depression at final assessment.

Conclusions: Fluoxetine shows promise as a safe and effective treatment for youth with chronic depressions. Controlled trials are indicated.

Limitations: Open label design, no comparison treatment condition.

Clinical relevance: As in adults, treatment with antidepressants may prove to be a useful intervention with children and adolescents with chronic forms of depression.