Treatment for Major Depressive Disorder (STAR*D)-2008

Abstract

Depression affects approximately 1 in 8 Americans and is the second leading cause of disability-adjusted life years in those 15–44 years old [1]. The majority of individuals with major depressive disorder (MDD) have a chronic or recurrent course and many continue to have symptoms and periods of disability between episodes [2]. Prior to the Sequenced Treatment Alternative to Relieve Depression (STAR*D) trial, there was little evidence in regard to treating patients in real world settings. The majority of previous trials included participants who were recruited through advertisement and who often had few medical or psychiatric comorbidities. In addition, though there had been many trials of the effectiveness of antidepressants in patients with MDD, there was not much evidence about additional anti-depressive treatment that is often needed for the large proportion of patients (up to two-third of patients) who do not respond, or have only a partial response, to first line treatment.

Warden, Diane & Rush, Augustus & Trivedi, Madhukar & Fava, Maurizio & Wisniewski, Stephen. (2008). The STAR*D Project results: A comprehensive review of findings. Current psychiatry reports. 9. 449-59. 10.1007/s11920-007-0061-3. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11920-007-0061-3