The changing horizon in the treatment of depression: scientific/clinical publication overview

Abstract

The author provides a critical review of clinical trials that evaluate the efficacy of antidepressants. It is noted that clinical studies often raise more questions even as they address the first questions. Kuhn's study in 1958 is regarded as a benchmark article, although that research was not conducted in the structured manner of current research. A review of prior research is followed by a discussion of the questions raised from the answers generated by the original issues. Evaluation of placebo response, treatment response rates, and the ethical issues surrounding placebo administration are considered. Studies reflecting use of antidepressants in diagnostic categories other than depression are also reviewed, and direction of future research is discussed.