Comparing Various Treatments for Achieving and Maintaining Remission of Depression
Comparing Various Treatments for Achieving and Maintaining Remission of Depression
This study will evaluate the effectiveness of five combinations of drug therapy and
 psychotherapy in maintaining remission of depression symptoms in people with recurrent major
 depression.
Depression is a serious illness that can interfere with a person's ability to work, study,
 sleep, eat, and enjoy activities that once were pleasurable. It is characterized by several
 symptoms, such as the following: persistent sad, anxious, or "empty" mood; feelings of
 hopelessness or pessimism; and feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness. If left
 untreated, depression symptoms can last for years, and may worsen as time goes on. Even with
 treatment, however, it is possible for depression to recur. Remission is a main goal in the
 treatment of depression and it may be accomplished through various strategies. This study
 will evaluate the effectiveness of five combinations of treatments, including medication
 therapy and psychotherapy, in maintaining remission of depression symptoms.

 All participants in this study will first be treated with imipramine for 7 to 11 months. Once
 remission of depression symptoms has been achieved and maintained for 20 weeks, participants
 will be randomly assigned to one of the following five maintenance treatments for 36 months:
 psychotherapy plus imipramine; psychotherapy plus placebo; psychotherapy alone; medication
 clinic treatment plus imipramine; or medication clinic treatment plus placebo. Assessments
 will be made at Weeks 12 and 20 and Months 7, 11, and 36, and will include the time it takes
 for depression symptoms to recur, as well as scores on depression and mania severity scales.
Inclusion Criteria:

 -  Diagnosis of recurrent major depression

 Exclusion Criteria:

 -  Unstable medical illness

 -  Any other simultaneous psychiatric or medical illness of greater concern than
 depression (index episode of depression is not primary)