Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a pervasive condition, often accompanied by insomnia, affecting millions worldwide. While traditional antidepressants have provided relief for some, many patients continue to struggle with inadequate responses. Recent advancements in pharmacological research have introduced investigational compounds that target the intersection of these issues. One such compound, seltorexant, has emerging evidence suggesting its efficacy in treating both MDD and insomnia in patients who have not found success with standard treatments.
In a pivotal phase III clinical trial, researchers investigated seltorexant’s potential as a treatment modality for adults diagnosed with MDD and experiencing concurrent insomnia. By the sixth week of treatment, patients taking seltorexant alongside their existing antidepressants exhibited a statistically significant reduction in their depressive symptoms. The Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS), a widely recognized tool for measuring depression severity, indicated a mean score change of -2.6 points for participants on seltorexant compared to those receiving a placebo (95% CI -4.53 to -0.74, P=0.007).
The significance of a two-point reduction on the MADRS is noteworthy within clinical practice, as it reflects a meaningful improvement in patients’ overall mental health. Participants receiving seltorexant described an enhanced quality of sleep as evidenced by a significant improvement in the Patient-Reported Outcome Measurement Information System Sleep Disturbance scale, with a reduction of -3.7 points (P
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