Escitalopram in Seasonal Affective Disorder: Results of an Open Trial

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of escitalopram in the treatment of seasonal affective disorder (SAD, fall-winter depression).

Methods: Twenty SAD patients were included in an 8-week drug surveillance. Patients were treated with open-label escitalopram at a dosage of 10 to 20 mg per day. Efficacy assessments included the Structured Interview Guide for the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (SAD version; SIGH-SAD), the Clinical Global Impression (CGI) and the Social Adaptation Self Evaluation Scale (SASS). Side effects were monitored with the UKU Side Effect Rating Scale.

Results: From week 2 onwards, escitalopram significantly reduced SIGH-SAD score and CGI severity score (p<0.001). From week 4 onwards, the SASS score was also significantly improved (p<0.05). The response rate (SIGH-SAD<50% of baseline value) after treatment for 8 weeks was 95%, the rate of remission (SIGH-SAD ≤7) was 85%. Side effects were mild to moderate and did not lead to cessation of therapy.

Conclusion: These results suggest that escitalopram is an efficacious and altogether safe treatment for seasonal depression.

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