Psychosomatics
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Randomized Controlled Trial
Escitalopram for severe asthma and major depressive disorder: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled proof-of-concept study.
Depression is common in asthma and may be a risk factor for asthma-related morbidity and mortality. However, minimal data are available on depression treatment in asthma. Previously, we reported greater sustained depression remission and less oral corticosteroid use in asthma patients treated with citalopram. ⋯ Medium effect sizes and a remission trend were observed favoring escitalopram over placebo on depression measures. Changes in self-reported depressive symptoms correlated with changes in asthma symptoms. A larger trial is needed to confirm the findings from this pilot study.